There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to chase away the winter chill. Whether you’re curling up after a long day or hosting a cosy gathering, homemade soup is the ultimate winter warmer. And with fresh ingredients from Willowbrook Foods, you’ll have everything you need to create simple, hearty soups bursting with flavour. Plus, soups are packed with health benefits – from boosting immunity to keeping you hydrated.

Why Make Soup at Home?

Homemade soups aren’t just delicious—they’re also incredibly versatile. You can tailor recipes to your taste, make the most of seasonal produce, and even whip up big batches to freeze for later. Plus, using Willowbrook’s fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensures your soups are packed with nutrition and unbeatable flavor.

Simple, Soul-Warming Recipes to Try

Here are a few easy-to-make soups to keep you warm this winter:

1. Classic Vegetable Soup

Packed with Willowbrook’s crisp carrots, earthy parsnips, and hearty potatoes, this classic soup is a nourishing treat. Add a handful of fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavour.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 parsnips, diced
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 1 liter vegetable stock
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté the onion until translucent.

Add the carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, and cook for 5 minutes.

Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

Blend half the soup for a creamy texture or leave it chunky for a rustic feel. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

2. Creamy Leek and Potato Soup

A smooth and velvety favourite, this soup highlights the subtle sweetness of Willowbrook’s fresh leeks.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 litre chicken or vegetable stock
• 200ml cream (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Melt butter in a large pot and sauté the leeks until soft.

Add the potatoes and stock, then bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

Blend the soup until smooth and stir in cream for added richness. Season to taste.

3. Spiced Lentil and Tomato Soup

This hearty and flavourful option is perfect for spicing up cold evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 can chopped tomatoes
• 1 litre vegetable stock
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté the onion and garlic.

Stir in cumin and smoked paprika, cooking until fragrant.

Add the lentils, tomatoes, and stock, then bring to a boil.

Simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

The Willowbrook Difference

At Willowbrook Foods, we’re passionate about bringing the freshest produce from Northern Ireland’s local farmers to your table. Our commitment to quality means every bite is filled with the taste of home. By choosing local, you’re not just making meals—you’re supporting the heart of our community.

Share Your Creations!

We’d love to see your soup creations! Share your bowls of goodness on social media using #WillowbrookFoods. Let’s inspire each other to stay warm and cosy this winter with wholesome, homemade meals.

So grab your ladle, stock up on fresh ingredients, and start simmering. This winter, let’s make every meal a moment of comfort and joy.