Winter is the season of hearty comfort food, and if you’re anything like us, you’ll be indulging in warming roasts, stews and soups that make dark evenings feel a little brighter.
It’s also a brilliant time to cook with seasonal UK vegetables which are at their peak in flavour. From root vegetables to chestnuts, the chilly weather is ideal for enjoying the best ingredients of the season.
What’s in season in winter in the UK?
There is plenty of produce in season throughout winter in the UK. Stock up on these ingredients in your local supermarkets and shops:
- Beetroot
- Bramley apple
- Brussel sprouts
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Celeriac
- Celery
- Chestnut
- Clementines
- Cranberries
- Grapefruit
- Kale
- Leeks
- Mushrooms
- Onions
- Parsnips
- Pears
- Pomegranate
- Potatoes
- Savoy cabbage
- Swede
- Turnips
- White cabbage
Here are some vegan winter recipes to leave you feeling full and energised.
1. Parsnip, peas and rosemary soup
This recipe by The Flexitarian offers a blend of sweet parsnips, peas and fragrant rosemary. It’s a vibrant soup which is full of flavour yet wonderfully simple to make. Light, satisfying and delicious, it’s the perfect lunchtime staple.
2. Beetroot Dahl
Dahl is a dish you can always come back to and this beetroot version brings a colourful twist. This dish by Love Beets has earthy beetroot, creamy coconut milk and protein-rich red lentils to make a fragrant, comforting bowl that’s ideal for colder days.
3. Bean-otto
This ‘bean-otto’ with kombucha-braised leek from our friends at Plant Academy requires some preparation, but it’s well worth the extra effort. If you’re looking for an alternative to a Sunday roast, this might just be it.
4. Red Cabbage, Walnut and Pear Salad
Yes, you can still enjoy a good salad during winter! There are so many seasonal favourites here, from the red cabbage and celery to walnuts and dates. The pear adds a touch of sweetness while the dressing lends a spicy kick. This salad by Figs and Fennel is sure to bring cheer to even the gloomiest of days.
5. Mushroom Penne
Pasta is a simple dish you can throw together any day of the week and this mushroom penne recipe doesn’t disappoint. Making your own pasta sauce is easier than you think – and healthier too!
6. Roasted Cauliflower, Aubergine and Red Pepper Korma
When the day calls for a creamy korma, look no further than this cosy dish. Softly spiced and full of plant-powered flavour, this veggie-packed recipe by Tideford Organics is straight-forward to make and can be on the table in 30 minutes.
7. Marrow and Carrot Soup
When the cold weather hits, a soup is always there to comfort you and ensure you fill up on important vitamins. This vegan carrot and marrow soup might just become one of your go-to winter recipes.
8. Mushroom and Chestnut Wellington
In need of a meat-free centrepiece for family meals? Try this delicious mushroom and chestnut wellington by Wrapped in Newspaper. It’s rich, savoury and perfect for sharing.
9. Chipotle Kale and Bean Stew
Sometimes, a hearty stew is all that’s needed to brighten up a dull day. This one-pot recipe uses lots of store-cupboard basics and you can customise it using veggies lurking in the vegetable drawer. The chipotle adds a zingy flavour which is sure to perk you up over winter!
10. Raw Spiced Apple and Date Pie
We couldn’t end this blog without sharing an indulgent winter recipe with you. This raw spiced apple and date pie is delightfully sweet and no ovens or pastry-making are required. If you’re craving a healthier version of a traditional apple pie, give this a go.
Feeling inspired? Discover even more vegan recipes.
