STEWS, CHILIS AND CHOWDERS

Twelve Thick and Hearty One-Bowl Dinners

Have you ever been in a soup sorta mood but you’re also hankering for something a little bit thicker? Heartier? Chunkier? That, my friends, is where these recipes save the day!

Chunky doesn’t always have to mean meat, mind you. This chapter includes three veggie-loaded options, including a zesty Tex-Mex Creamy Corn Chowder that will knock your socks off.

If you’re a fan of chili, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering options in the upcoming pages. My family is actually split on which one to call our favorite. I find myself regularly craving tender, spicy Pulled-Pork Chili, my husband loves my Daddy’s Texas Chili for its straightforward ingredients and classic flavor, and my kids can’t get enough yummy Beefy Three-Bean Chili. Needless to say, they’re all in regular rotation at our house.

The next time stew sounds good, don’t miss healthy, filling, toss-it-in-and-forget-it Beef and Barley Stew—it’s guaranteed to leave you smiling and satisfied. Or—if you’re willing to put in a bit more work for complex layers of flavor—bacon and red wine–kissed Beef Bourguignon is unbelievably delicious. And if you happen to enjoy lamb, there’s even a stew for you! Irish Lamb and Potato Stew is tasty on Saint Patrick’s Day or any day of the year.

Finally, even though it’s missing stew, chili or chowder in its name, the arguable star of this chapter is Chicken and Dumplings! Because who wouldn’t go crazy for succulent, fall-apart chicken and fluffy dumplings in a thick and flavorful broth?

Now, excuse me while I go fire up the slow cooker to get started on something from this chapter. Have fun deciding which one of these satisfying meals to try first!