Cozy nights are made for simmering pots of comfort food, don’t you think? There’s something so satisfying about letting a hearty meal cook away on the stovetop or in the slow cooker while you relax and unwind. And what better way to do that than with a delicious stew, soup, or curry that fills your home with savory aromas?
In this article, we’ll share 18 of our favorite simmering recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic beef stews to creamy mushroom sauces, these dishes are perfect for cold winter nights when you want something warm and nourishing. So grab a mug of hot tea, settle in, and get ready to dive into the world of simmering cooking!
Beef and Barley Simmering Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that simmers together tender beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the barley, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Slow-Simmered Tomato Basil Soup
A classic summer soup that’s perfect for warm days and cozy nights, this slow-simmered tomato basil soup is a flavorful and comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes), chopped basil, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it slow-cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Chicken and Dumplings Simmering Pot
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty pot simmers with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, carrots, celery, and chicken broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
3. While the mixture simmers, prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add butter and mix until crumbly. Gradually add beaten eggs, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized pieces of dough into the simmering pot, covering the surface.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through and chicken is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Simmering Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. This recipe simmers lentils and mixed vegetables in a rich and aromatic tomato-based sauce, resulting in a hearty and comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Bean Simmering Chili
Spicy Sausage and Bean Simmering Chili Recipe
This hearty chili recipe combines spicy sausage with tender beans and rich flavors, perfect for a cozy evening or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Simmering Sauce
A rich and savory sauce that’s perfect for accompanying roasted meats, vegetables, or as a dip. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the brightness of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and mushrooms; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in thyme leaves; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simmering Coconut Milk Fish Curry
This rich and creamy curry recipe combines the flavors of coconut milk, fish, and spices to create a deliciously comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water or fish broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add fish and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and water/broth mixture; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Potatoes and Carrots Simmering Medley
A delightful, easy-to-make side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the earthy flavor of potatoes, all infused with a hint of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4-5 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to brown slightly.
3. Add the sliced carrots and stir to combine with the potatoes.
4. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary leaves and dried thyme evenly over the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Simmering Beef Bourguignon
A classic French dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty stew is packed with tender beef, mushrooms, and vegetables in a rich red wine broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or shank, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches, then remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add broth, wine, tomato paste, carrots, celery, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
4. Return beef to the pot, cover, and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Serve hot over egg noodles or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Vegetable and Tofu Miso Simmering Broth
Simmering a rich and savory broth with vegetables and tofu, infused with the umami flavor of miso paste. This recipe is perfect for a comforting and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and zucchini)
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and tofu; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in water and miso paste; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Simmering Pork Ribs in BBQ Sauce
Get ready to fall off the bone with these tender and flavorful pork ribs smothered in a rich, sweet, and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine ribs, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Chickpea and Spinach Simmering Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the flavors of chickpeas, spinach, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simmering Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Warm Up with Simmering Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a delicious and comforting bowl of simmering apple cinnamon oatmeal, infused with the sweetness of caramelized apples and the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1-2 apples, cored and sliced
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
4. While the oatmeal is cooking, caramelize the sliced apples by cooking them in a separate saucepan over medium heat with a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup (if using) until tender and golden brown.
5. Once the oatmeal is cooked, stir in the caramelized apples and any remaining liquid from the apple pan.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb and Rosemary Simmering Ragout
This hearty ragout combines tender lamb with fragrant rosemary, creating a rich and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add garlic, rosemary, and onion. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb to pot and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Simmering Ratatouille with Fresh Herbs
This French-inspired vegetable stew is a flavorful and aromatic delight, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With the addition of fresh herbs, this ratatouille takes on a bright and refreshing quality.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs: parsley, basil, and/or rosemary, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the eggplant and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until it’s slightly softened.
4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Simmering Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavorful black beans, sweet corn, and aromatic spices. Simmered to perfection, it’s a comforting meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth; stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Simmering Ginger-Turmeric Chicken Soup
Soothing Simmering Ginger-Turmeric Chicken Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and aromatic soup recipe that combines the invigorating properties of ginger and turmeric with tender chicken. Perfect for a chilly evening or whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quinoa and Kale Simmering Pilaf
A nutritious and flavorful vegetarian dish that combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with the earthy sweetness of kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and leaves coarsely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Add the quinoa and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
4. Add the water or broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 18 hearty simmering recipes perfect for a cold winter’s night. From classic beef and barley stew to creamy mushroom and thyme sauce, there’s something for everyone. Slow-cooked tomato basil soup, chicken and dumplings, lentil curry, and spicy sausage chili are just a few of the comforting dishes that will warm your belly and your heart. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and flavorful braise or a nourishing and healthy broth, these simmering recipes have got you covered.
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