It’s no secret that comfort foods can be a source of emotional and physiological comfort. People often turn to comfort foods when they are feeling down or stressed.
However, comfort food doesn’t just mean high-calorie dishes like mac and cheese or meat and potatoes. It also means anything that you can get your hands on that makes you feel warm and cozy.
Meatloaf
One of the best-loved meals, meatloaf can be made in many ways. Meatloaf is traditionally served with gravy or ketchup, but there are many other options that make this meal more interesting.
Traditional meatloaf recipes blend ground beef, pork or veal with breadcrumbs and egg to form a firm yet tender loaf. Milk is usually added to help bind the ingredients, which helps ensure that the meatloaf remains moist.
Greek Avgolemono Soup
A silky, rich chicken soup infused with lemon and egg is the perfect comfort food. Avgolemono soup is a Greek classic that’s easy to make at home and can be served hot or cold.
This soup is so creamy because of two important thickening agents—egg yolks and rice. To achieve that silky, smooth texture, the eggs need to be tempered by adding warm broth gradually. This helps prevent them from cooking and clumping together in the soup.
Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings is one of the most comforting foods you can make. It’s a classic southern dish that is filled with tender, juicy chicken and fluffy dumplings.
It is also an easy dish to make. You don’t need any special equipment to make this dish.
You only need a large pot and a few ingredients to make this dish. You will need chicken broth, canned biscuits and cream of chicken soup.
Loco Moco
Loco moco is a classic Hawaiian comfort foods recipe made with steamed rice, hamburger patty, brown gravy, and a fried egg. It’s quick and easy to make and can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
It was created in the 1940s and reportedly started when diners requested a simple dish that they could afford. Either Cafe 100 or the Lincoln Grill in Hilo, Hawaii were where the first version of Loco Moco was invented.
It’s a delicious combination of four basic ingredients: white rice, burger patty, brown beef gravy, and a fried egg. A great dish that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults!
Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and grits is a traditional Southern meal that’s sure to bring you comfort. This dish is simple to make and a great source of protein.
Grits are high in carbohydrates and fiber, making them a healthy choice. They can also be prepared in a low-fat way to cut calories.
You can reheat shrimp and grits in the microwave by heating them on low power for about a minute. However, the grits may become a bit rubbery and the shrimp can overcook if heated too long.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are one of the most comfort foods recipes, a dish that’s perfect for holidays and weeknight dinners alike. These creamy potatoes are loaded with herbs and garlic and topped with butter and gravy!
Mashed potatoes are made from boiled or steamed potatoes that are mashed with a ricer, hand potato masher or electric beater. They can be flavored with garlic, onions, herbs or spices and sometimes cheese.
Johnny Marzetti
A classic from Ohio, Johnny Marzetti is a baked casserole dish consisting of ground beef, cheese, pasta and tomato sauce. The recipe was created by Italian immigrant Teresa Marzetti and named after her brother-in-law.
It was a hit at Marzetti’s restaurant in Columbus, and it spread across the state and the Midwest in the 1920s. It was a satisfying, savory and inexpensive meal that made life easier for housewives.
Smothered Chicken
Smothered chicken is a classic soul food recipe that has been a staple of families for centuries. It is the perfect combination of seasoned chicken and gravy that warms your body and soul.
It is a versatile dish that can be made with any type of meat or vegetables. The secret is in the browning process before you simmer it in a thick gravy.
