Seasonal Stew and Schemes

The cabin was buzzing with life on a cold evening. Outside, the chill in the air hinted at winter’s approach, though it still felt like fall. Inside, Badger and Yote’s families had gathered for their weekly tradition—making stew and sharing stories. This evening carried a special energy, as the families were also beginning to plan for Thanksgiving, the biggest feast of the year.

“Smells amazing in here,” Yote said, carrying a bundle of freshly washed carrots to the counter. “Hard to beat a good stew when it’s cold out.”

Badger stirred the pot, the rich aroma of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs wafting through the room. “True, but you know what makes stew even better?”

“What’s that?” Yote asked, ears twitching.

“A puzzle,” Badger said with a sly grin.

The little ones immediately quieted down, curious, as Badger leaned on the counter and began his riddle.

“For his vegetable stew recipe, Adrian needs three tomatoes and three large carrots. But here’s the twist: he also needs fewer radishes than tomatoes and more radishes than cucumbers. Assuming Adrian only uses whole numbers of vegetables, how many of each other vegetable does he need?”

Yote narrowed his eyes, already lost in thought. The children huddled together, whispering possible answers.

“Three tomatoes, three carrots,” Yote murmured. “Fewer radishes than tomatoes… more radishes than cucumbers... Hmm.”

“You’ll have to think fast,” Badger teased, stirring the pot. “This stew’s almost ready, and I don’t plan on waiting for you to figure it out before we eat!”

The room filled with quiet murmurs of debate as Yote and the children wrestled with the puzzle. But the answer, for now, would have to wait.

Can you help Yote figure out this puzzle?

🧠 This story reflects the value of shared moments with loved ones. Riddles, like meals, bring people together—they spark curiosity, encourage teamwork, and offer a chance to step away from the busyness of life. In a season focused on gratitude and connection, solving puzzles like this one reminds us that the simplest moments can create the warmest memories.