Cheddar Biscuits and Carrot, Ginger, and Pear Soup

As much as most of us don't want to say goodbye to the Summer sun, Autumn is on the way and cold and flu season with it. What better comfort food than homemade biscuits and a warm bowl of soup. Here are two great autumn day recipes to keep everyone warm in the upcoming fall season.

Cheddar Biscuits

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
4 tsp baking powder
2 tbsp sugar
1/3 cup cooking oil
3/4 cup milk
1 cup grated old cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Measure the first 4 dry ingredients together in a large bowl and mix well. Add cheese and mix again.

2. Add oil and Milk, stir to form a soft ball of dough. Add more milk if needed to make the dough soft, but not sticky. Turn out on lightly floured surface and knead gently 8-10 times.

3. Roll or pat 3/4 to 1 inch thick and cut with a biscuit cutter, or use the open end of a water glass. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet close together for moist sides or one inch apart for crisp sides.

4. Dab tops with milk for a nicer browning. Bake at 425f (220c) in the oven for 15 minutes until nicely browed.

Makes 12 biscuits. Substitute cranberries instead of cheese for cranberry biscuits.

Carrot, Ginger, Pear Soup

Ingredients:

5 cups peeled, sliced carrots,
4 pears peeled, and cored, diced,
1 onion chopped,
2 cups chicken stock,
2 garlic cloves, minced,
1/4 cup fresh ginger, chopped and peeled,
1/3 cup butter,
1/4 cup flour,
4 cups milk

Instructions:

1. Combine first 6 ingredients in a large saucepan, cover with water, bring to a boil and reduce heat. Simmer for 30 minutes or until veggies are soft.

2. Puree until smooth, melt butter in a large sauce pan, add flour and mix smooth, gradually adding in milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until it boils and thickens. Stir in pureed vegetable mix and heat through.

Serve with a dab of sour cream in the soup and chopped chives for garnish along with biscuits for a nice autumn meal that will leave you feeling warm and cozy. Summer may be nearing it's end, but who says that has to be a bad thing?