We started off this snowy weekend with Guiness Irish Beef Stew (page 80). I actually made this last night and we had it for lunch today, as this is one of those dishes that is much better the next day. This recipe contains both Guiness beer and red wine, so how bad can it be? Al was down in his office on a work call when I took him a bowl, and he came upstairs a little later, exclaiming, "Wow - that was really good. I need a little more!" That's all any cook needs to hear to motivate them to keep on cooking! This stew wouldn't be my first choice on a hot summer day, but it's perfect cold weather fare. (Note: When I was making this last night, I noticed a few omissions from the recipe. There was no quantity listed for either potatoes or carrots. It should read 4-5 large russet potatoes, and 4 large carrots. I actually cut them in large chunks as opposed to the 1/2-inch chunks called for in the recipe. These changes will be reflected in the next version.)

Click here for Chili Con Carne recipe

Click here for Tuscan White Bean Soup recipe

Joe and Susie selected Tuscan White Bean Soup as the first recipe to cook, and it was perfectly fitting for a cold winter day.