As our food preferences, metabolism, and energy levels change during the winter months, so do our wardrobes, our energy bills, and our diets. As the weather gets colder, the thought of going to the gym becomes less appealing.
Does this mean you should embrace hibernation and calorie-dense foods this winter because listening to your body, intuitive eating, and mindful movement are all hot topics in the wellness industry right now?
In a sense, yes. Warming and nourishing foods can help keep your immune system strong and healthy during the colder months. Temperatures close to our body temperature are thought to improve digestion, according to Ayurvedic and Chinese medical practises, as well as some studies.
My focus is on winter favourites that promote wellness, with seasonal vegetables and plenty of nutrient-rich ingredients leading the charge.
1. The stuffed Potato
If you’d rather have baked potatoes filled with your favourite ingredients than deep-fried ones, this is the recipe for you.
Everything from mexican-style chilli beans to slow-cooker braised beef can be served, and all dietary requirements can be met. A fluffy baked potato is the result of using starchy potatoes rather than waxy ones, which are more likely to stick together when baked.
If you’re looking for a new flavour and a different variety of vitamins, sweet potatoes are also a great option.
2. The underappreciated tanoak
Are you a fan of chestnuts, or have you not had them in a while? If you haven’t already made them a wintertime staple in your home, now is the time!
With 45 percent of your recommended daily value for vitamin C, chestnuts are a powerhouse of antioxidants and fibre. They’re also high in potassium and other essential nutrients.
Steamed and salted is one way to eat them, but they can also be baked or blended into a variety of dishes. Be sure to add them to your shopping list.
3. Chicken wings that aren’t contaminated with chicken.
Cauliflower is enjoying a renaissance, and for good reason. The bland, mushy boiled cauliflower of your childhood should be forgotten in favour of the delicious baked variety. If you’re looking for an easy way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals, this winter veg is an excellent choice. Aside from side dishes, cauliflower can be a good substitute for chicken. You can get started with bbq cauliflower wings (and can even win over kids with veggie aversions). Cauliflower steaks and Jamie Oliver’s whole roasted cauli are also delicious.
4. Making your own Ramen
Ramen is a great addition to your soup repertoire, even if you prefer minestrone, pumpkin, or chicken. It’s a popular take-out option, but we recommend making your own ramen at home to avoid the cold trip. Find out how to make ramen that’s full of flu-fighting ginger, probiotic miso and warming chilli paste, as well as the comforting flavours of ramen here.
5. Ragu with a twist
A chilly winter day is the ideal occasion for a slow-cooked beef ragu, but if you want to up the nutritional value, try substituting mushrooms for the beef. Mushrooms are one of the few non-animal sources of vitamin D, and they also contain beta-glucan, a substance that boosts your immune system and helps you fight off infections. Portobellos, which come in a variety of textures and flavours, are the ideal meat substitute in this hearty mushroom ragu. If you’re not quite ready to give up beef, consider adding some chopped portobellos to your next ragu to combine the flavours of tradition with the advantages of mushrooms.
6. Vegan shepherd’s pie
With a vegan shepherd’s pie filled with plant-based protein and fluffy golden potatoes, you can transform another traditional favourite, impress your fellow vegans, or simply add some seasonal vegetables to your diet. While it requires some preparation and can’t be made quickly on a weeknight, this recipe is a simple choice for a weekend supper and the leftovers are just as tasty.
7. Vegetable loaded muffins
Wintertime snacking can often catch us off guard, with summer fruit cravings being replaced by ones for chocolate cake, croissants, and cheese. Get ready for cravings by stocking up on muffins that are full of seasonal vegetables, like these cheesy zucchini and spinach muffins. While still giving in to your cheese cravings, adding super spinach to your diet will also benefit your health.
8. Take your oats to the next level
It’s time to spice up your oats with something more exciting than a dusting of brown sugar, according to baked oats, Tik Tok’s newest viral food. These are ideal for a chilly winter morning and can be pre-baked and microwaved or prepared the night before and baked the next morning. The flavour combinations are endless, and once baked, these have a delicious (yet healthy) cake texture as opposed to your typical bowl of porridge.
Healthy can also mean hearty
Winter is the ideal time to eat plenty of warming, nourishing seasonal vegetables and ingredients.
You’re more likely to make wise decisions that will provide your body with the necessary vitamins and nutrients to get through the cooler months if you have a repertoire of wholesome and delectable recipes at your disposal.
So start organising and head to the stores armed with a list.
