“The warmth of a winter minestrone brings comfort as the seasons transition. Minestrone – vegetables, beans and pasta – shouldn’t be too strict, and this recipe can be used as a guide. Cabbages become plentiful in cold weather and are celebrated in this dish, used first to flavour the soup, then whizzed into a pesto to spoon on top. Spinach can be swapped for chard, pasta for rice, black beans for chickpeas or other beans; just take account of any necessary adjustments to their cook times. This version uses black beans (as opposed to more traditional cannellini or borlotti beans) for their small size and rich flavour. They nestle nicely among the other vegetables without dominating the soup, adding wonderful nuttiness and depth alongside the cabbage.” – Yotam Ottolenghi

This easy recipe is perfect for a cold winter’s day when you feel like lasagne but don’t feel like waiting. On the table in 35 minutes, it’s super-comforting, with silky sheets of pasta, tasty meatballs and gooey melted cheese.

Creamy and comforting, yet surprisingly light, this corn chowder is loaded with layers of flavour – from the sweet corn to the salty pancetta and fresh lemon juice.

Make use of every little bit of Christmas ham with this tasty minimal waste recipe.

Use up any dairy leftovers with this midweek wonder. You’ll need to freeze 2 cups of milk for this recipe.  Creamy, corn, chive and bacon soup

Slow-roasted tomato soup is comfort in a bowl—rich, velvety, and full of depth. Unlike quick stovetop versions, this soup builds flavour slowly. Roasting brings out the best in ripe tomatoes, while a touch of smoked paprika and chilli adds a delicate smoky spicy backbone.

“If you roast a chicken or make a roast lamb, never ever throw the bones out – always use them to make a stock or broth.” – Matt Moran

This traditional Italian bean stew is elevated with cheesy dumplings.

“This is a speedy spin on the classic pea and ham combo,” says Shannon Bennett.

The magic of cheese-making lies in the process, say Ellie and Sam Studd, who take their time with a luxurious French onion soup complete with cheesy, toasty topping.

The evenings are dark and the weather’s turned cold… thankfully, with this warming, comforting and flavour-packed Thai curry, Shannon Bennett, has the perfect dish to enjoy curled up on the sofa. Just add your favourite TV show.

The classic chicken and corn soup recipe gets a Matt Moran makeover.

Keep this one vego by leaving out the bacon and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

The whole family will enjoy this easy to make creamy potato and leek soup with croutons. A cosy and comfort food for dinner on cool nights, this French classic is also elegant enough to serve at your next dinner party.

Rustic sourdough croutons add oomph to this hearty soup, which is all the more vibrant thanks to the addition of fresh mint.