Need some cooking inspiration? Try these winter comfort foods.

hand pulling out a notecard recipe

The weather is crisp and cold, which means it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a warm meal. If you love soups, casseroles or want to try something new, we’ve got several recipe ideas for you. Try one with a friend, bring one to a family gathering and enjoy!

In Oregon, some of the fresh produce you’ll find throughout the season includes winter squash, Brussel sprouts, kale, cabbage, mushrooms, dried beans, lentils, onions, potatoes, cranberries, apples and root vegetables like carrots and parsnips. has an extensive list of recipes ranging from snacks to main courses and everything in between, including:

2 bowls of soup next to 2 scoops of beans
chicken cassorole

bacon bits on potato soup in white bowl
 
sweet potato muffins on plate
baked cored apples on plate with blue flowers
fruit crisp on green lattice plate
baked apple chips on a plate surrounded by whole apples

 

hazelnuts next to tray of hazelnut cookies with a jar of jam
 

  

  

Celebrating culture through cooking

Seasonal foods celebrate the relationship Indigenous peoples share with the land, including their knowledge of ecosystems and ecoregions. Ingredients like winter squash have been an important part of Indigenous cultures for thousands of years. In addition to serving as a main part of many dishes, squash also have several other uses. For example, the hardened skins can be hollowed out and used as ceremonial decorations or storage containers. And the dried strips of squash can also be used to weave mats.

Chef Nephi Craig, who partners with OSU Extension’s Indigenous Peoples Workgroup and the Food Hero Program, is a member of White Mountain Apache and Diné tribes and is founder of . He works to educate others about Indigenous foods, preserve their history and share recipes with the world.

Craig’s recipes are also featured at :

Chef Craig in culinary uniform
Chef Nephi Craig shares his Indigenous recipes with the OSU community.
quinoa grains
bowl of yogurt with herbs scattered throughout
butternut squash cut in half with seeds sprinkled around next to a bowl of cooked butternut squash dish
squash dish in casserole pan
Create a layered dish by combining the quinoa, yogurt and butternut squash

Take your winter cooking up a notch – and grow your own food

Beginning in January, individuals, households, groups and teachers can sign up to receive free seeds through Food Hero’s . Each will be delivered by mail and include a mix of herb and vegetable seeds, as well as flowers that are attractive to pollinators. A monthly email will also be provided, with growing, harvesting and preparation tips.


Whether you’re cooking, taste-testing or growing, dig in to Oregon’s bounty this winter!