As the days are getting shorter, the weather is getting colder and Christmas is nearing closer I start to think about my favourite autumnal recipes. My favourite recipes at this time of year are full of warming spices and hearty ingredients to bring that warmth and cosiness all the way to your core.

On a cold autumn evening, there is nothing quite as delicious and wholesome as homemade soup and fresh bread. Considering that this time of year is well-known for Halloween, my pumpkin soup is a sweet tradition in my family.

The use of spice in this recipe has made this a popular favourite in our household, with chilli flakes, ginger and garam masala it has a delightful kick of fiery flavour.

Our favourite way to cook at this time of year is with our slow cooker. Thanks to this handy product, stews, roasts and casseroles are our favourite meals to cook as it helps to save time while also sealing in the wondrous flavours and keeping the meat beautifully tender.

Beef stew is our go-to meal for when we are all a little too busy to spend hours cooking. We favour a simple recipe but don’t worry, it is still abundant with flavour. Braising steak is quickly seared and then placed into the slow cooker along with fried red onions, carrots, thyme and a few simple spices. This is then covered in gravy to slowly cook the meat and ensure all the flavours are incorporated into the meal while keeping the meat juicy and tender.

What are your favourite meals to cook during autumn?