While the weather has been far from warm the past couple of days, spring is approaching. I feel it in my perpetually scratchy throat and I see it in the buds that are blooming early after several weeks of above average temperatures. In my kitchen, I’m rushing to cook my favorite cold weather dishes before warmer temperatures banish my cravings for hearty, comfort foods in favor of the sun-kissed fruits and vegetables and grill-marked meats of spring and summer. That’s where this hearty stew comes in to the picture.
