Fall is the official weather of warm stews, hearty meat, potato dishes, and delicious baked goods. My first thought when I see leaves beginning to fall is, “Yes! Chili weather is here!” When someone asks what my comfort food is, I always think of warm soups filled with any manner of meat and vegetables with a slice of freshly baked bread to go with it. If you are someone who also enjoys a heartwarming meal while listening to the fall rain, then here are some ideas to try out. 

Chili- There are many ways to make a good bowl of chili, but the basic ingredients are usually the same: ground beef, chopped onion,  cans of tomatoes, tomato sauce, and kidney beans. You can add some water with a pinch of chili, garlic powder, and optional salt and pepper. Not too many ingredients are required for a quality main course. Personally, jalapenos are a crucial ingredient for the perfect pot of chili, but if you are not a fan of spicy food then don’t bother. The ingredient portions can be changed depending on how many servings you need. Chili is perfect for family get-togethers, tailgates, or just to treat yourself. Look at www.allrecipes.com for greater detail on cookin’ up some chili.

Chicken and Potatoes- The combination of chicken and potatoes is a match made in heaven! You can eat chicken and potatoes as it is, or you can get creative with it. My favorite way to eat it is in a thick, rich soup filled with whatever you want to put in it. All you need to start is some boneless chicken breasts and russet potatoes. Then grab the classic salt and pepper from the cabinet and vegetable oil and cayenne pepper (for taste). The vegetables are important for adding some weight to the soup. Chopped carrots, celery, onion and minced garlic complete the soup circle and add some color to help make it look like a true fall meal. Throw it all in with chicken broth and a bit of water (to help with the consistency) and you have a yummy soup that will definitely become a family favorite.

Shepherd’s Pie- A classic dish that originated from England and Ireland and probably the best combination of random things on the planet! Even though it can take a little time to make, the ingredients are incredibly simple. The important things are the ground beef and the potatoes, as well as the vegetables, because they make up the heart and soul of the pie. Salt and pepper are a must have, and any type of butter is vital if you want to have more creaminess in your recipe. To increase the flavor, add some chopped onions, Worcestershire sauce, and any other seasonings you think you need. Put them in any pan you want, preferably a deep-dish, and throw it in the oven. Soon the smell of Shepherd’s Pie will invade your brain and make the stomach-grumbling noises happen.

Pork Roast- If you are a bacon-lover, then you will love pork roast. It is fantastic meat based-meal to make during the fall season, and it is pretty self-explanatory. The quickest way to make a pork roast is to oven bake it, which is also good if you throw some potatoes and carrots in with it. There are a wide variety of ways to prepare your cut of pork and honestly, I don’t care what you do as long as it is something you really enjoy. If you need some ideas, doing a dry rub with some spices or marinating for two days in the fridge are some good ones. I would be happy if you just give me plain pork, preferably shredded, with savory gravy drizzled over it. Having gravy with your pork roast is very important if you are someone who likes to add a saucy factor to your food. Put it in a bowl or on a plate (depending on how you like to eat food) and you are set. Remember to eat slowly and enjoy every flavor!