Subscribe
Menu

Cooking with Seeds

In the depths of Wisconsin winters, cooking with seeds can be a delicious way of adding nutrition, texture and flavor to your meals through local, seasonal ingredients. From deep onyx black beans to plump cranberry beans, we are lucky to have an abundance of locally grown legumes available which can serve as a hearty base for soups and stews. Sunflower and pumpkin seeds, while often saved for snacking, bake beautifully into breads and desserts. This season, we bring you three seed recipes perfect for a cozy evening by the fireplace.

Oaxacan Spiced Chili

Recipe by Halee Wepking of Meadowlark Farm and Mill

When Halee Wepking combines ‘Cayenne’ red beans and black beans, grown at her Ridgeway farm, with the Oaxaca spice blend from Madison maker, The Deliciouser, the result is a rich and hearty pot of chili. The dark and smoky spice mix brings depth to this winter season favorite while beautifully creamy beans remind you why they should be a staple in everyone’s pantry.

MAKE THIS ▶

Cassoulet

Recipe by Elena Terry of Wild Bearies and Tall Grass

For Elena Terry, time is the secret ingredient that transforms simple, dried beans into something truly grand in her take on the traditional French stew. Packed with protein, this economical dish ends up beautifully composed—perfect both for feeding the family or stunning dinner guests. Terry loves spending a cold day slowly crafting this cassoulet along with a crusty bread that is a must to accompany this cozy dish.

MAKE THIS ▶

Pumpkin Loaf with Maple-Glazed Pumpkin Seeds

Recipe by Christy McKenzie of Pasture and Plenty

While this spiced pumpkin loaf is everything you’d want on a chilly winter day, the glazed pumpkin seed topping is truly the showstopper, adding a satisfying crunch along with some maple sweetness. Excellent alongside a morning cup of coffee, add in the optional chocolate chips plus an extra handful in the topping mix (a must at Christy McKenzie’s house) and suddenly it becomes your favorite seasonal dessert.

MAKE THIS ▶