Soup

Active time: 35 min Start to finish: 35 min

Simple and delicious, with great curry flavor.

For easy serving, ladle the soup into pretty bowls, and set them on the buffet table.

The stock recipe yields 8 cups; there will be about 1 1/2 cups left over after you make the mushroom soup. To prepare the mushrooms for this soup, wipe them clean with a damp paper towel. Be sure to cut off the stems from fresh shiitakes. If using morels, rinse quickly to dislodge any dirt from crevices.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.

A hearty meal-in-a-bowl for blustery March days. Short ribs add flavor, while sliced cabbage contributes texture. At the end, the only things you need are a dash of vinegar and a dollop of sour cream.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

In Italy this classic peasant soup is known as aquacotta, or "cooked water."

If desired, grate a little extra Parmesan cheese for passing; a sprinkling over the soup will echo the flavor in the meatballs.