Real Simple / Kan Kanbayashi

With rain in the forecast for at least half of the weekend in Washington, we’re planning to get started with some comfort food cooking at home.  On our menu is some family-recipe chili and southern spoonbread; sure to have us laid up on the couch for hours watching football.

But if you’re in the mood for something different, Real Simple has just offered its readers a great list of “25 Dishes to Warm the Heart.” Included on the list are some outstanding selections, with recipes provided:

Mac & cheese
Meatloaf
Chicken pot pie
Old fashioned beef stew
Corn chowder
Molassas baked beans

And pictured above, Mint-infused lamb chops with sweet potatoes…

Personal honorable mentions also go to beef brisket, home-smoked ribs, and anything that features fall varieties of squash and pumpkin.

To help get you in the spirit, here’s a great list of seasonal beverages and brews curtesy of Real Simple.

A few of our personal favorites also include Rogue Dead Guy Ale, Blue Moon’s Harvest Moon and Abita Amber.

From Real Simple:

Beer

• Belgian: Saison Dupont, $11 for a 25-ounce bottle. Hearty, malty.
• Pumpkin: Dogfish Head Punkin Ale, $10 for four bottles. Pumpkin, spice.

Red Wine

• Sparkling Shiraz: Rumball Sparkling Shiraz, $28. Effervescent, bold.
• Pinot Noir: Twin Fin Pinot Noir, $10. Light, fruity.

White Wine

• Riesling: Dr. Loosen L Riesling, $12. Fruity, slightly sweet.
• Prosecco: Mionetto Prosecco di Valdobbiadene, $15. Delicate, bubbly.

Hard Cider

• Still: Farnum Hill Extra- or Semi-Dry Still Cider, $9 to $15. Crisp, sophisticated.
• Sparkling: Woodchuck Amber, $7.50 for six bottles. Sweet, sparkling.