Cold weather calls for hearty food, which is why food stylist and recipe developer Masego Mboynana has created four winter meals that will warm you up from the inside out. Beef stew, chicken casserole, butternut soup and boerewors all sound pretty simple, but Masego has given each of these recipes a little oomph to make them that much more delicious.

Red wine beef stew with dombolo

This slow-cooked beef stew is all about depth of flavour and patience. Browning the beef properly and simmering it gently in red wine creates a rich, layered sauce that feels indulgent yet familiar. The addition of dombolo brings a comforting, nostalgic touch; the soft, fluffy dumplings soak up every bit of the sauce. It’s a timeless winter dish, made accessible with simple ingredients and a hands-off cooking process that rewards you with incredible flavour.

Red wine beef stew with dombolo recipe

Butternut, carrot and ginger soup with roasted chickpeas

This vibrant soup brings together comfort and contrast in every spoonful. Roasting the butternut and carrots enhances their natural sweetness and adds a subtle caramelised depth, while fresh ginger introduces warmth and brightness. The addition of roasted chickpeas and fresh chilli transforms a classic soup into something more dynamic, adding crunch and gentle heat. It’s an easy, wholesome dish that feels both nourishing and elevated, ideal for quick winter meals or relaxed entertaining.

Butternut, carrot and ginger soup with roasted chickpeas recipe

Boerewors with mielie rice and cabbage

This dish celebrates the beauty of simple, familiar flavours done well. Juicy boerewors is paired with a tangy-sweet tomato-and-onion relish that cuts through the richness, while fried cabbage adds a subtle caramelised sweetness. The creamy maize rice ties everything together, offering a softer, more indulgent take on a classic staple. It’s a balanced, nostalgic plate that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.

Boerewors with mielie rice and cabbage recipe

Chicken casserole with mashed potatoes

Leeks and onions bring a soft, slightly sweet depth to this creamy chicken casserole, while butter beans add creaminess and texture that makes the dish feel more substantial without extra effort. A touch of Dijon mustard lifts the richness of the cream, balancing the flavours beautifully. Paired with buttery mashed potatoes, this is a simple, one-pot meal that delivers maximum comfort with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for easy weeknight cooking or relaxed weekend dinners.

Chicken casserole with mashed potatoes recipe

More winter recipes