Cold Weather Comfort Foods

I don't know about you but when it's cold outside I look forward to making "comfort foods" such as vegetarian chili and all kinds of hearty soups.

Lentil Soup-

2 russet (baking) potatoes
2 medium carrots, cut into 1/4-inch dice (peel first)
2 celery ribs, cut into 1/4-inch dice
3 garlic cloves, chopped fine1 medium onion, chopped fine
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 pound lentils, picked over and rinsed (about 2 cups)
8 cups low-salt chicken broth

Peel potatoes and cut into 1/4-inch dice. In a 5- to 6-quart heavy kettle cook potatoes, carrots, celery, garlic, and onion in butter over moderate heat, stirring frequently, until onion is softened, about 4 minutes. Add lentils, broth, and salt and pepper to taste and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, 45 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and soup is thickened.

I like to add some grated Parmesan cheese on top with a slice of french bread on the side...m'm m'm I'm hungry just typing this!