There's nothing like the comforting effect of this warm, fragrant soup. Children love it on a Winter afternoon.

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon margarine or water * 1 medium onion (chopped) * 1/16-ounce can pumpkin puree * 1. 1/3 cups water * 3 cups soy milk * 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg * 1/2 teaspoon sugar * pepper to taste * croutons

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or water * 2-3 large onions (sliced) * 1/4 cup unbleached  all purpose flour * 4 cups water * 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari * 4 slices french bread, toasted; or croutons

With winter around the corner it’s time to leave the lunchtime salads and sandwiches behind and opt for a warming soup to help us through the cold days.

As is, this versatile soup is a warming side dish; it also makes a healthful, aromatic base for soups, stews and sauces.

This hearty and heart-warming soup is comfort food at its best.Ingredients: 1 teaspoon vegetable oil, 1 medium onion (sliced), 1 medium carrot (sliced), 1 cup lentils, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, 2 bay leaves, Salt to taste, 1 tablespoon lemon juice