Deep freeze: 5 Warm-You-Up Dishes

This polar vortex is too much – it’s freezing. Haven’t heard of the polar vortex? You’re lucky. I didn’t know what a “polar vortex” was until yesterday – basically, it’s a large, continually circulating frigid air mass that gets colder and colder which apparently, happens roughly once every 20 years or so. The short: we’re snapping records all over the place with record low temperatures. It’s my my worst nightmare. Despite being a born-and-raised Canadian, I don’t fair well in the winter.

Here’s the thing I’ve learned through my 20 years of winter-survival – there’s nothing that we can do about these temperatures other than bundle up and try to stay indoors. All winter I crave some cozy comfort foods, but today even more so. There’s nothing I want more than a hearty bowl of chili or soup to warm me up. I’ve put together five Warm-You-Up Dishes to make this week, your family will thank you!

1. Snow Day Hot Cocoa – Is there anything better than a warm cup of hot chocolate to warm your bones after being outside? Have a pot ready for when your kids or partner get home after a cold day.

2. Slow Cooker White Bean Soup – Sticking to those healthy resolutions? This simple dump-and-go slow cooker soup will fit the bill – packed with protein and veggies here’s a healthy comfort food the whole family will love.

3. Slow Cooker Chili with Sweet Potatoes – Chili is by far my go-to comfort food and this recipe is a favourite. Packed with familiar flavours and nutrient-dense sweet potatoes, his chili can be made in the slow cooker or right on the stove!

4. Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken Stew – This recipe is on the top of my list right now – I love how deep the ethnic flavours from Morocco get in this slow cooker stew. A little modern comfort food for you.

5. Baked Pesto Pasta – Everyone loves pasta and this baked pesto pasta (packed with red peppers and chicken) is a balanced comfort food – a little cheese never hurt.

So there you go , whether it’s -10°, -20° or -30° where you are, these recipes will keep you going through this deep freeze, polar vortex.

Food for thought