Recipes for soups and stews vary so much in small details that it may safely be said that no two cooks make any soup or stew alike. Nevertheless, there are some fundamental rules that cover this culinary branch, as well as all others. The following recipes present a nice variety, and any of them may be slightly altered to suit individual tastes. Good, palatable and nourishing soups and stews are as inexpensive as they are easy to prepare, and should be served frequently, especially during cold weather. When properly prepared they will not be refused by anyone blessed with normal tastes and hearty appetite. To say that your family does not like soup is to confess that you are not quite "up" to making soup as palatable as it might be, and this is a lack which the following recipes will help anyone to overcome.