Winter in Melbourne brings crisp air and shorter days, creating the perfect backdrop for hearty soups, stews and comforting roasts.
In this blog, we’ll explore seven classic winter meals that will keep you cosy throughout the season.
From nourishing soups to slow-cooked stews and tender roasts, each meal idea embraces the best of winter produce, warming you from the inside out.
Savour the season: 7 hearty dishes to keep you cosy this winter
1. Classic beef stew
A classic beef stew embodies comfort food at its finest, offering warmth and nourishment on chilly winter days. For the best results, choose well-marbled cuts like chuck or brisket, which become tender and flavourful with slow cooking.
Brown the beef first to develop a deeper flavour, and simmer gently in a broth with root vegetables, onions, and herbs. A splash of red wine enhances flavour, while the ‘low and slow’ cooking method (low heat over a longer period of time) ensures every bite is melt-in-the-mouth perfection.
2. Lamb shanks
Lamb shanks braised in red wine is a succulent and satisfying meal, perfect for a winter night.
Use meaty shanks that are browned before braising with garlic, rosemary, and a rich red wine sauce. Cook them slowly in the oven or a slow cooker until they fall off the bone. For extra flavour, deglaze the pan with wine before adding stock.
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce!
3. Chicken noodle soup
Chicken noodle soup is a nourishing and timeless favourite. It’s a foolproof, versatile dish: add all your favourite veggies for a thick, tasty, and nourishing soup.
Choose bone-in chicken for a richer flavour, and add herbs like parsley or thyme. Don’t forget to throw in a couple of bay leaves while cooking, too.
It’s also an excellent option for meal prep: make a big batch, and you’ll have comforting dinners or lunches for several days. When reheating, freshen it up with an extra squeeze of lemon juice and fresh herbs.
4. Minestrone
Minestrone is a rustic, hearty soup brimming with seasonal vegetables, beans, and pasta. Pancetta or sausage adds depth, while tomatoes create a rich base.
It’s also a great way to use up pantry staples or vegetables! Add your preferred veggies or herbs and simmer gently to let the flavours meld. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for a comforting, nourishing meal.
5. Osso Buco
Osso buco is an Italian classic that transforms veal shanks into a tender, mouth-watering dish. Braised in a savoury tomato and wine sauce with aromatic vegetables, it’s traditionally finished with a bright gremolata – an Italian green sauce made of parsley, garlic, and lemon.
For best results, brown the shanks first to lock in flavour, then simmer gently until the meat is falling off the bone. Pair with risotto or mashed potatoes for a truly hearty and satisfying winter dinner the whole family will love.
6. Traditional roast
A classic roast embodies the essence of a hearty family meal!
Choose a marbled cut like ribeye or sirloin for optimal tenderness and flavour.
Season generously and sear to form a flavourful crust, then slow-roast with aromatic herbs and root vegetables. Rest the meat before carving to keep it juicy, and serve with gravy, roasted potatoes, and vegetables for a satisfying feast.
7. Bœuf Bourguignon
Don’t be intimidated by its fancy French name! Also known as Beef Burgundy, this is a hearty stew. It combines tender beef with mushrooms, bacon, and the star of the show: a rich red wine sauce. If you’re sticking to traditional, then you’d specifically choose a red from Burgundy.
Use a well-marbled cut like chuck or brisket to enhance the flavour and texture. Brown the beef and bacon before slow-simmering them with onions, garlic, and herbs. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.
Stock up this winter with Australian Butchers Store
For all your winter cooking needs, look no further than Australian Butchers Store.
With four convenient locations across Melbourne and an online shop, you’ll find quality meats to make these hearty dishes truly shine.
Find your nearest store or start shopping online, and let us help you create the ultimate winter feast at home!
Beat the chill with these classic winter dishes
Winter comfort food is all about finding joy in the warmth of a hearty meal shared with loved ones. These seven meals offer the perfect way to embrace the season, each one packed with flavours that will keep you coming back for more.
Whether you’re simmering a stew or slow-roasting a traditional roast, these dishes will nourish your body and soul through the cold months ahead!
