Warming Up Your Autumn and Winter Meals with Delicious Herbs and Spices

As the leaves begin to change colour and the air turns crisp, it’s time to shift our
attention to the warming and comforting herbs and spices that are perfect for
the autumn and winter seasons. These herbs and spices not only add depth and
flavour to our dishes but also offer a variety of health benefits. Here are some of
our favourite autumn and winter herbs and spices for you to include in your
recipes this season.

Cinnamon
This sweet and warming spice is perfect for adding flavour to everything from
oatmeal to baked goods. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help
to regulate blood sugar levels. Try making a batch of cinnamon-spiced apple
cider to enjoy on a chilly evening, or a raw apple-cinnamon & chia breakfast
bowl.

Ginger
Ginger has long been used for its warming and soothing properties. It can help
with digestion and also has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits.
Try adding grated ginger to your tea or making a batch of gingerbread cookies.

Rosemary
This woody herb has a slightly bitter and pungent flavour that pairs well with
roasted meats and root vegetables. It also has antioxidant properties and can
help to improve cognitive function. Try making a batch of rosemary roasted
potatoes for a comforting side dish.

Thyme
Thyme has a slightly sweet and earthy flavour and pairs well with a variety of
meats and vegetables. It also has antibacterial properties and can help to soothe
coughs and sore throats. Try making a batch of roasted butternut squash with
thyme and garlic.

Sage
Sage has a slightly bitter and earthy flavour that pairs well with rich meats and
creamy sauces. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can help to improve brain function. Try making a batch of butternut squash and sage
risotto for a comforting and flavourful meal.

These are just a few of the many herbs and spices that are perfect for autumn
and winter. Incorporating these flavours into your meals can not only add depth
and warmth but also offer a variety of health benefits. So, go ahead and
experiment with different herbs and spices and see what delicious dishes you
can create!

To get you started, here’s a recipe for a warming and nourishing butternut
squash soup:
Ingredients:
1 large butternut squash, peeled and chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

Directions:
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
Add the chopped butternut squash and thyme and stir to combine.
Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let simmer until the squash is tender.
Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chopped fresh sage. Enjoy!

Looking for more autumn recipes? Check out these beautiful seasonal recipes
using autumn produce.