There are times when it’s just too cold out to cook anything other than a comforting bowl of soup. We’ve combed our recipe database to find six of our favorite soup recipes, perfect for those chilly winter nights.

Soupe a l’oignon gratinee

Soupe a l’oignon gratinee

(Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)

Start with a generous amount of slowly caramelized onions, and gently simmer them in a broth brightened with a little Sherry and hints of thyme and bay leaf. Serve each portion of this rich soup topped with a slice of crusty French toast -- or two -- hidden under a creamy layer of melted Gruyere.

Jason’s Deli’s chicken chili

The chicken chili from Jason’s Deli makes a hearty dish.

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)

For this 60-minute chili, shredded rotisserie chicken is simmered with kidney beans, jalapeños, tomatoes, diced peppers, cilantro, garlic and a medley of spices. It makes a great dinner, and even better leftovers.

Sally Lunn’s carrot, lentil and cumin soup

The carrot, lentil and cumin soup recipe from a restaurant in Bath, England, is flavorful and easy to make. Read the recipe »

(Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)

It’s so rich and full of deep flavor, you might never guess this soup is vegetarian.

Mendocino Farms’ coconut curry cauliflower soup

A quick lentil broth provides a nice base to this soup, and along with the coconut broth, gives this soup a hearty richness. Chunks of cauliflower, carrot and potato are flavored with curry powder, with a little cayenne pepper added for heat and agave nectar for a touch of sweetness.

Hog’s Breath Inn’s artichoke soup

Artichoke lovers, rejoice!
Recipe: Artichoke soup

(Glenn Koenig / Los Angeles Times)

Artichoke lovers, rejoice! A simple ingredient list brings the artichoke to the forefront in this rich, thick soup, the flavors nicely rounded out with a touch of Sherry.

Creperie du Village’s soupe aux haricot blanc

Rich and hearty white bean soup.
Recipe: Creperie du Village’s soupe aux haricot blanc

(Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)

Ham and beans are a classic combination, and this soup doesn’t disappoint. Great Northern beans are gently cooked with aromatic vegetables and herbs to creamy tenderness, with chopped bacon and ham folded in.

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