As the days grow shorter and the nights grow cooler, the scent of autumn fills the air. It’s a time to gather with loved ones, celebrate the harvest, and indulge in warm, comforting dishes that evoke the cozy feelings of the season. In many cultures, Mabon is celebrated as a time of thanksgiving and gratitude for the abundance of the earth. To mark this special occasion, we’ve curated a list of 18 delicious recipes that showcase the flavors and ingredients of autumn.
From hearty stews and soups to sweet treats and savory main courses, these dishes are sure to become new favorites in your household. Whether you’re hosting a Mabon feast or simply looking for some inspiration for your fall cooking, we’ve got you covered. So grab a cup of apple cider, settle in by the fire, and get ready to cozy up with these 18 mouthwatering recipes…
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sage
Warm up on a chilly fall or winter day with this comforting and flavorful soup featuring roasted butternut squash, savory sage, and a hint of nutmeg. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Roast the squash, cut side up, for 45 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
5. Add the roasted squash, chopped sage, nutmeg, broth, and heavy cream (if using).
6. Simmer soup for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Savor the fall flavors of tender pork shoulder slow-cooked in a rich apple cider braising liquid, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground allspice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork shoulder with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and allspice.
3. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Sear pork shoulder until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
4. Add apple cider, brown sugar, mustard, carrots, and celery to the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the warmth of thyme, all wrapped up in a sticky honey glaze. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite salads, these carrots are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick coins
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Add the carrot slices to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread with Walnuts
Warm up to the flavors of fall with this moist and aromatic pumpkin spice bread, packed with crunchy walnuts. Perfect for a cozy morning or as a snack to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Mabon Harvest Stew with Root Vegetables
As the leaves turn golden and the harvest moon rises high, Mabon is a time to celebrate the abundance of the earth. This hearty stew is a perfect way to warm up on a crisp autumn evening, featuring a medley of root vegetables at their peak flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 1 turnip, peeled and cubed
– 1 red potato, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, carrots, parsnips, turnip, and potato. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and add thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Apples Stuffed with Oats and Cinnamon
This classic fall treat is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of oats. It’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy apples in a new way!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety), cored
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Stuff each apple core with the oat mixture, dividing it evenly among the apples.
4. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and dot the tops with melted butter.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the filling is golden brown.
6. Serve warm, topped with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
This sweet and savory tart is perfect for a dinner party or special occasion. The caramelized onions add a deep, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry and place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Spread the cooked onions evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Drizzle balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with crumbled goat cheese.
7. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spiced Pear and Almond Cake
Elevate your cake game with this moist and flavorful dessert that combines the sweetness of pears with the crunch of almonds. Perfect for a cozy evening treat or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and spices.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the pear mixture and almonds to the egg mixture; stir until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Barley Risotto
This hearty risotto combines the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms with nutty barley and aromatic herbs, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 1 cup cooked barley
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine and cook until absorbed. Then, add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in cooked barley and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Bring out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts by roasting them with a hint of maple syrup and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with maple syrup, then top with cooked bacon.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Harvest Salad with Pomegranate and Pecans
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this refreshing salad, featuring juicy pomegranate seeds, crunchy pecans, and a medley of autumnal greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, kale, spinach)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinaigrette
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. Top with pomegranate seeds and pecans.
3. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the salad.
4. Drizzle with apple cider vinaigrette and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken with Autumn Vegetables
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this hearty roast chicken dish, featuring a fragrant herb crust and tender vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 Brussels sprouts, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and Brussels sprouts around the chicken in a single layer.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful chili recipe that combines sweet potatoes and black beans. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, black beans, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
5. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Warm Mulled Apple Cider with Cloves
Warm Mulled Apple Cider with Cloves
As the cold winter nights approach, there’s nothing quite like a warm and spicy cup of apple cider to cozy up by the fireplace. This recipe for Warm Mulled Apple Cider with Cloves is a perfect way to keep the chill off and lift your spirits.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the cider has reduced slightly.
3. Add brown sugar and water to the saucepan, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cider reaches your desired temperature.
5. Remove from heat and strain out the spices and cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: 25-32 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Ravioli with Brown Butter
Savor the flavors of fall with this seasonal ravioli dish, featuring roasted pumpkin and earthy sage in a rich brown butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
– 1 package ravioli wrappers (about 24-30 wrappers)
– Brown butter sauce ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin with olive oil, onion, garlic, and sage. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
2. Cook ravioli wrappers according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until butter turns golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add heavy cream to the browned butter and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked ravioli with roasted pumpkin mixture and toss to coat. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Cornbread with Honey Butter
A classic Southern comfort food gets a sweet twist with this cornbread recipe, served with a side of creamy honey butter. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and honey until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the batter is smooth.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Honey Butter:
1. Mix softened butter with 1 tablespoon of honey until well combined.
2. Serve warm cornbread with a pat of honey butter on top.
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, all on a bed of fresh arugula. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss arugula with the dressing and top with roasted beets, goat cheese, and walnuts (if using).
6. Serve immediately and drizzle with balsamic glaze or vinegar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust: A seasonal twist on the classic cheesecake, this recipe combines the warmth of pumpkin and spices with a crunchy gingersnap crust.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups gingersnap crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center is set.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up this autumn season with these 18 delicious Mabon recipes! From hearty soups and stews to sweet treats and savory dishes, these fall-inspired creations are sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. Discover mouthwatering options like Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sage, Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, and Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust. Whether you’re hosting a harvest celebration or just want to bring the flavors of autumn into your home, these recipes are sure to delight.