There are a lot of folks who are either vegetarian or vegan. (By the way, there is a pretty big difference.)

I find I can go several days without eating meat (not by design, more due to not be aware or obsessive about it) and I'm good with that.

But winter stews and soups tend to make one feel like meat is required. I believe it's because the general feeling is it will make the dish heartier. 

This is not the case. You can make a great Winter Vegetable Stew without the animal protein.

As February drags on and the colder weather sticks around, it's always nice to stay inside with a great bowl of stew, which can be served over a number of items. They can include rice, couscous, mashed potatoes, and quinoa.

This may be a perfect weekend to give it a shot.