Photo by Marie Martin
So many negative situations have affected the way we live. They altered so much of our physical, emotional, and mental well-being on such short notice. Hence, when we get hit by life’s stressors, we often turn to our “comfort food,” hoping that eating them will make us feel better.
It’s not a rare occurrence that people turn to food when they want to cope. Be it joy, depression, or pure numbness, comfort food has the power to turn things somehow around. Emotional solid states trigger our need to eat something to feel safe and in control.
Comfort food is supposed to make you feel warm and cozy inside, despite having our views on what it can be. If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that preparing them shouldn’t be a hassle. Every single dish is an eased version of the classics that we loved.
Just like in Eleanor Gaccetta’s book “Generations of Good Food,” a sumptuous meal doesn’t have to be complex and intricate to be enjoyed. A simple dish made of accessible ingredients is enough to turn your world upside down in a good way.
What comfort food is and why we love it
Its origins might date back to the 60s, although it only gained popularity during the late 70s. But apart from when and where it was derived, the concept came from the feeling people get as they consume food they particularly like. When you crave something sweet or savory, you expect to feel good when you eat them.
Sometimes, it could be a fond memory associated with the food you like whenever you’re down. It’s not necessarily a fancy meal from an expensive restaurant. Comfort food exists to simplify life’s complications; that’s why it’s widely available and a quick go-to.You can explore more about why we crave for comfort food and how it affects us emotionally.
Examples of comfort food to try
The best thing about comfort food is that you don’t have to be a star chef or a seasoned home cook to pull it off. They are simple types of food you can consume in one sitting, plus it’s supposed to make one feel light and easy. One instant serving is what makes comfort food, well, comforting. There are hundreds of comfort food you can find online which are super easy to make.
With these easy, comfortable home cooking recipes, you can make one of them for yourself whenever you’re having those bad days:
Chicken Pot Pie
With the delicious combination of flaky, buttery crust with chunks of diced chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce, the chicken pot pie truly serves its purpose. You may find one of these in a nearby grocery store, but nothing beats the authentic home recipes that elevate the taste of this dish. It would help if you looked them up for any available recipes online.
Classic Meatloaf
You can never go wrong with this old-school recipe that’s so easy to make. It may not be as attractive as it looks, but the end goal of every comfort food is to taste good. A slice of meatloaf goes well as a sandwich patty or is eaten alone but with a fried egg on top.
Vegetarian Matzo Ball Soup
As a year-round favorite, this dish has been a comfort food staple nourishing the body and soul. This Jewish recipe is a variegated version of the original chicken fat and broth. The latter were swapped with veggie alternatives for those on a vegan diet.
Beef Stew
Beef Stew has always been an essential part of the lineup. It is best consumed on its own or with other dishes. Regardless, beef stew is a meal you can enjoy to your heart’s content without feeling guilty.
Baked Mac & Cheese
No matter how many versions there are of this famous comfort dish, baked mac & cheese rules among the all-around staple dishes in existence. The baked mac & cheese is one of the easiest to make, plus it gets better with more cheese layers. Tons of recipes have managed to elevate the creaminess and overall texture of the dish, so you have many choices that suit your taste.
Sloppy Joe
Named after the cook who added tomato sauce over his loose meat sandwiches, this American classic is considered one of the ever-reigning comfort food. It is made of ground beef in tangy sauce between toasted buns, and the sloppy joe is a great childhood dish you can try at home.
Comfort yourself with food
A delicious, home-cooked meal is the best way to relieve stress and troubles. Good food takes us to a place that strikes a pleasant memory or emotion. Sometimes, we all need to indulge in everything that brings us joy, even for a moment, especially when we get to eat them and have our fill.
Even though you can consume as much comfort food as you want, a balanced diet is still necessary. You get the best taste while eating everything in moderation while living healthily. When you’re healthy and happy, nothing else matters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why do we crave comfort food when stressed?
Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that can increase appetite for high-fat, high-sugar foods. Additionally, comfort foods are often linked to positive childhood memories or feelings of being cared for, which can temporarily lower stress levels.
2. Is comfort food always unhealthy?
Not at all. While traditional comfort foods like mac and cheese or meatloaf can be rich, you can make healthier versions by using whole ingredients, reducing salt and sugar, or adding vegetables. Even classic dishes can be part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation.
3. Can comfort food improve your mood?
Yes. Eating comfort food can trigger the release of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical. The nostalgic association also plays a role—when food reminds you of happy times, your mood can lift almost instantly.
4. What’s the difference between comfort food and emotional eating?
Comfort food is about choosing specific foods that bring pleasure and nostalgia. Emotional eating is a broader behavior where anyone eats in response to feelings, not hunger—often mindlessly. Comfort food can be enjoyed mindfully; emotional eating may lead to guilt if overdone.
5. What are the best comfort foods for vegetarians or vegans?
Great options include vegetarian matzo ball soup (mentioned in the article), vegan baked mac and cheese, lentil shepherd’s pie, plant-based sloppy joes, and creamy mushroom pot pie. These keep the cozy factor while aligning with plant-based diets.
6. How can I make comfort food more nutritious?
Try these swaps:
- Use whole wheat pasta for mac and cheese.
- Add extra vegetables to beef stew or pot pie.
- Replace heavy cream with pureed cauliflower or low-fat milk.
- Bake instead of fry.
- Reduce sodium by using homemade broths.
7. Why is chicken pot pie considered a classic comfort food?
It combines protein, vegetables, and carbs in a warm, creamy, and flaky crust—all textures and flavors associated with safety and warmth. It’s also a dish often made by parents or grandparents, strengthening its nostalgic value.
8. Can comfort food help with mental health struggles?
While comfort food can provide temporary relief, it should not replace professional mental health care. However, cooking and eating a favorite dish can be a form of self-care and mindfulness, helping to ground you during anxious or low moments.
