Michigan winter can feel long and grey. While there may be less variety in food grown around the state, what is grown makes for some excellent comfort food. Potatoes, mushrooms, onions, and Swiss chard combine with other ingredients to create fabulous, nutrient-dense dishes.
Explore some of the dishes below that feature winter seasonal ingredients. Let us know if you try them out, and if they help you feel cozy on a blustery winter day.
Mushrooms
Certain mushrooms, like oyster and wood ear mushrooms, can grow in the winter. If you can’t find fresh mushrooms, you can also hydrate dried mushrooms to make these comforting winter dishes. Mushrooms are packed with nutrients, including B vitamins and the antioxidant selenium. Selenium supports the immune system, which can decrease the severity of winter colds. Try one of these dishes to warm and nourish your body.
- Immunity-Boosting Mushroom and Burdock Root Soup
- Oyster Mushroom Stew with Potatoes and Kale
- Balsamic Roasted Mushrooms over Colcannon Potatoes
Onions
While primarily used the depth of flavor imparted to dishes, onions can also hold their own when it comes to nutrition. They are high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help support your immune system, rebuild tissues, and enhance iron absorption. Make onions the star of the plate with one of these dishes.
Swiss Chard
Certain winter greens can still grow hearty through the winter months. Swiss chard is full of vitamins A and K. These vitamins act as antioxidants in the body protecting cells from damage. Swiss chard is also a great plant source of iron. It is in the same plant family as kale and shares the familiar earthy taste. Don’t throw out the colorful stems – try sautéing them to have alongside the leaves
Elise Gahan is a dietetic intern with a master’s degree in nutritional science from the University of Michigan School of Public Health.
Updated by Claire Butler, Content Strategy Specialist, on January 6th, 2026.