When the temperature drops and snowflakes start to pirouette down from the wintry sky, skiers across the globe hit the slopes in search of that perfect run. But after a long day of carving down mountainsides, nothing beats the warmth and comfort of a savory soup or stew. For ski enthusiasts seeking to refuel, here are seven hearty winter soups that promise to keep the cold at bay and fuel your turns!
#1 Venison Stew
A traditional beef stew is quintessential après-ski fare. Packed with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s the perfect meal to replenish energy stores after a day on the slopes. Pair with crusty bread to soak up every savory drop.
#2 White Chicken Chili
Luxurious cream cheese melds into a divine, velvety white chicken chili that tantalizes your taste buds. It’s the ultimate comfort for cold days on the slopes or après-ski relaxation. This soup cooks up quickly, leaving you plenty of time for extra turns or to get your skis waxed for that powder day.
#3 Smoked Butternut Squash and Red Pepper Soup
As the New Year kicks off, many of my skiing friends recommit themselves to healthy eating. If you have members of your crew who are following a vegan, paleo or Whole30 diet, check out Smoked Butternut Squash and Red Pepper soup. It’s tasty and meets the requirements for almost any diet.
#4 Dungeness Crab Bisque
Embrace the chill of winter slopes and warm up with a Pacific Northwest favorite – this Dungeness crab bisque! After a day of carving down the frosty trails, indulge in an exquisite homemade soup, where the succulent flavors of fresh Oregon Dungeness crab are the star. For an explosion of taste, craft a rich crab stock from the shells to infuse your soup with the pure essence of the PNW.
#5 Mixed Mushroom Soup
If you love mushrooms, then this is the soup for you! This Mixed Mushroom soup freezes and travels well. Enjoy it while working at home, or freeze and re-heat on a backcountry stove for a delicious lunch on the trail and the slopes!
#6 Hearty Bison Chili
For those who prefer a bit of spice to kickstart their apres-ski evening, this bison chili is the go-to choice. Beans, ground bison, peppers, and a mixture of spices create a hearty soup that not only satisfies the palate but also warms the spirits. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a side of cornbread for a truly indulgent treat.
#7 Miso Clam and Pork Belly Ramen
Drawing inspiration from my epic ski seasons spent on Japanese mountainsides, this recipe features my favorite local shellfish, clams, and a traditional Japanese preparation of pork belly in a flavorful miso broth. For me, ramen is the ultimate skiing lunch!
To all skiers, may these delectable, hearty winter soups provide flavorful comfort and fuel for your mountain adventures. A world of flavors is waiting to be explored this ski season, with each spoonful promising to deliver the warmth and sustenance necessary to brave the slopes again. Bon appétit and happy skiing!
