When it gets cold like this, I often find myself in the mood for soup.   Especially since I can cook it up once, then eat it for several days.   

Of my three usual favorites, the one that sounded best for this cold spell is my mom’s Taco Soup.   Probably because I had all the ingredients on hand, and couldn’t leave the house because my car doors were frozen shut!

The recipe below makes an absolutely HUGE batch.  Frankly, I don’t even own a pot that would contain it all - so I always halve it, and it is more than enough to feed a family with leftovers.   

Last night it really hit the spot - I’m looking forward to another bowl tonight.  

TACO SOUP

• 1 Pound hamburger
• 1 onion- chopped
• 1 can beef broth
• 2 cans water
• 2 beef bullion cubes
• ½ to 1 cup salsa
• 1 envelope taco seasoning mix
• 2 quarts of tomatoes (if they are too chunky, chop in a blender)
• 1 quart of water
• 2 cans red kidney beans (undrained)
• 2 cans pork and beans

Brown hamburger with onion. Drain and rinse.  Add remaining ingredients and simmer for 30 minutes. Serve with sour cream and Frito corn chips

Do you have a favorite soup recipe? What do you crave on cold, winter days?

Tonight I found myself craving something sweet and looked in the cupboards to see what I might have hidden away.  I realized I had all the ingredients for a delicious caramel popcorn recipe, which I haven’t made for years.  It sounded perfect. 

3/4 C brown sugar
3/4 C white sugar
1/2 C dark Karo (light also works)
1/2 C water
1 Square butter (NOT margarine)
1/8 tsp cream of tarter
1 tsp soda

Mix everything but the soda and cook on medium high.  Stir and cook to “soft ball” stage - not too firm.  Remove from heat and quickly stir in soda (makes it foamy).  Pour over popcorn - makes at leasat 2 large mixing bowls full.

I only wanted enough to cover a microwave bag of popcorn - and 1/3 recipe did it great.  1/2 recipe would give tons of coating if you’re so inclined.    Try it and let me know what you think!

What treats do you find yourself craving at night?