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Hearty Winter Vegetable Stew - Creamy Root Vegetable Soup

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/16 .. r-vegetable-stew-creamy-root-vegetable-soup.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, December 16th 2025 at 12:31 GMT by Food & Wine

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Christmas Soups: A Flavor‑Rich Guide from Food & Wine

When the holiday season arrives, many people picture a heavy turkey, mashed potatoes and a bounty of side dishes. Yet the Food & Wine “Christmas Soups” roundup shows that a warm, aromatic bowl of soup can set the tone for a holiday meal—or even serve as a hearty main course in its own right. In this 500‑plus‑word summary, we’ll walk through the article’s top picks, the seasonal ingredients that bring them to life, and the practical tips that make them both festive and fuss‑free.

1. Hearty Winter Vegetable Stew

The first soup on the list is a comforting, slow‑cooked stew that’s a nod to classic holiday comfort food. Root vegetables—carrots, parsnips, and turnips—are simmered with onions, garlic, and a splash of dry white wine, then finished with a rich, creamy broth. A handful of fresh sage and thyme provide an earthy depth that pairs well with a crusty roll or a side of creamy mashed potatoes. Food & Wine notes that this dish can be made in a slow cooker for a set‑and‑forget approach, letting the flavors mingle for hours while you finish prep for the main course.

2. Roasted Tomato & Basil Soup with a Touch of Heat

Next up is a vibrant, tomato‑based soup that balances sweetness and acidity. Tomatoes are roasted to bring out their natural sugars, then blended with a light chicken broth. Fresh basil and a hint of crushed red pepper give the soup a bright, peppery finish. The article suggests a drizzle of high‑quality olive oil just before serving, which adds a silky texture and a glossy sheen that feels especially indulgent during the holidays. The soup is served hot, with a side of homemade croutons, and can be spiced up further with a dash of smoked paprika if you’re feeling adventurous.

3. Creamy Butternut Squash & Roasted Chestnut Soup

For a fall‑to‑wintry transition, Food & Wine turns to butternut squash, a quintessential seasonal ingredient. The soup’s base is pureed butternut squash, roasted chestnuts, and a touch of maple syrup for natural sweetness. A splash of coconut milk or heavy cream gives the dish a silky consistency, while a pinch of nutmeg and a few grinds of fresh pepper add warmth. The article recommends garnishing with a swirl of cream, toasted pumpkin seeds, and a drizzle of rosemary‑infused olive oil—an elegant finishing touch that makes the soup feel both rustic and refined.

4. Spiced Lentil Soup with Pomegranate

Lentils are a staple of winter cuisine, and Food & Wine offers a version that’s both wholesome and festive. The lentil soup is cooked with carrots, onions, and garlic, then spiced with cumin, coriander, and a hint of cinnamon. A splash of pomegranate molasses gives the soup a tart, slightly sweet finish, and bright, jewel‑colored pomegranate seeds are scattered on top as a garnish. The soup’s deep, earthy flavor pairs beautifully with a crusty sourdough roll or a side of spiced rice.

5. Creamy Broccoli & Cheddar Soup

Broccoli may not be the first vegetable that comes to mind during Christmas, but the article shows it can shine as a creamy soup. The recipe calls for steamed broccoli, a good amount of sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of milk and heavy cream to create a velvety base. The soup is seasoned with a pinch of nutmeg and a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra touch of holiday glamour. A sprinkle of bacon bits or a handful of toasted walnuts adds crunch and a smoky undertone.

6. French Onion Soup – A Holiday Classic

No holiday soup roundup would be complete without a classic. Food & Wine’s version of French onion soup follows the traditional route: caramelized onions, beef broth, and a hint of sherry. The soup is topped with a hearty slice of baguette and melted Gruyère cheese, then broiled until golden and bubbly. The article recommends serving this soup as a starter, especially for those who want to feel like they’re dining at a cozy bistro instead of a backyard grill.

7. Chicken & Chestnut Soup

The final soup is a lighter option that blends protein with seasonal chestnuts for texture. The recipe uses shredded chicken, chestnuts, carrots, celery, and a savory chicken stock, finished with a splash of white wine and fresh thyme. The soup’s gentle flavor profile is ideal for guests who prefer something less rich. Food & Wine notes that it pairs beautifully with a light salad or a simple green bean casserole.

Practical Tips for Holiday Soup Success

1. Plan Ahead – Many of the soups, especially stews and lentil dishes, can be made in advance or cooked on a slow cooker. This frees up time for plating and last‑minute tweaks to your holiday spread.
2. Use Seasonal Produce – Root vegetables, squash, and chestnuts are in season during the holidays, making them fresh, affordable, and flavorful.
3. Balance Flavors – Pair sweet (maple syrup, chestnuts) with savory (cheese, bacon) and acid (tomatoes, pomegranate) for a well‑rounded soup that won’t overwhelm your palate.
4. Add a Touch of Luxury – A drizzle of truffle oil, a swirl of cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate even the simplest soup into a showstopper.
5. Serve Smart – Depending on the soup’s richness, you can serve it as a starter, side, or even as a main course. Pair with appropriate bread or starches to round out the meal.

Final Thoughts

Food & Wine’s “Christmas Soups” article showcases the versatility of soup in the holiday dining context. From the comforting heartiness of a winter vegetable stew to the elegant simplicity of a French onion soup, there’s a bowl for every palate and dietary preference. The recipes emphasize seasonal ingredients, thoughtful seasoning, and a touch of indulgence—elements that are essential for creating memorable holiday dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick, crowd‑pleasing starter or a full‑meal centerpiece, these soups offer both flavor and practicality, making them a must‑try addition to any Christmas menu.