We all have those days when nothing seems to go right. You wake up on the wrong side of the bed, your coffee spilled on your favorite shirt, and you’re stuck in traffic for hours. On days like these, all you can think about is comfort food.
For most people, comfort foods remind them of childhood or a simpler time. They are usually hearty and warm dishes, making you feel good after eating them.
If you’re having one of those days, here are 6 comfort foods from around the world that will improve your day.
Chicken soup
When you’re feeling under the weather, there’s nothing like a big hot bowl of chicken soup. In addition to being comforting and soothing, chicken soup also has impressive health benefits. The hot broth helps loosen mucus and relieve congestion, while the chicken is high in protein to help boost your immune system. Not to mention, the vegetables in the soup add extra nutrients to your meal. And don’t let canned soup fool you – homemade chicken soup is simple to make and tastes much better. So the next time you’re feeling a little under the weather, do yourself a favor and whip up some chicken soup for the ultimate comfort food remedy.
Dumplings and fried rice
These two dishes are staples in many cultures around the world, and for a good reason. When you’re in need of some comfort food, Chinese dumplings and fried rice are a satisfying choices. The warm, savory flavors will immediately bring your mood up, and the variety of fillings available in dumplings allow for a customizable dish to suit any craving. Plus, both dumplings and fried rice can be easily made from leftover ingredients, making them a budget-friendly option. And if you’re looking for even more convenience, Chinese food in a bento box is the way to go, making it easy to take with you everywhere you want.
Macaroni and cheese
This classic comfort food needs no introduction. Macaroni and cheese is a favorite among kids and adults alike, and for a good reason. Whether it’s homemade with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping or straight out of the blue box, this gooey cheesy dish is guaranteed to hit the spot and make you feel better. And while some might consider it to be a guilty pleasure, studies have shown that comfort foods like mac and cheese can actually improve mood by triggering feel-good chemicals in the brain.
Pizza
There’s no denying that pizza is one of the most popular comfort foods out there. After all, what’s not to love about a warm, cheesy pie? The combination of melty cheese, crispy crust, and tangy tomato sauce never fails to hit the spot. Plus, the process of building and baking your own pizza can be a therapeutic activity in itself. As an added bonus, homemade pizzas allow for unlimited customization with toppings – whether it’s loaded with all your favorite meats and veggies, or just a simple sprinkle of garlic and herbs.
Fried chicken
For many people, fried chicken is the ultimate comfort food. The crispy exterior and juicy interior are hard to resist, and the combination of flavors is simply heavenly. The key to making it truly irresistible is all in the breading – make sure to use a combination of flour, seasoning, and buttermilk for maximum flavor and crunch. And don’t skimp on the frying oil – the higher the temperature, the crispier the results. Serve with some mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a truly indulgent meal. But be warned – once you taste homemade fried chicken, you may never want to go back to fast food versions again.
Ice cream
Lastly, no comfort food list would be complete without ice cream. This creamy, delicious treat is the perfect pick-me-up when you’re feeling down. And while it’s often thought of as a kids’ food, there are plenty of grown-up flavors to choose from as well. From rich chocolate to refreshing fruit, there’s an ice cream flavor out there for everyone. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, don’t hesitate to add some toppings – a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, some chopped nuts, or even a scoop of whipped cream.
Final thoughts
There’s no denying that comfort foods are always here to save the day! Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy, fried, or just plain indulgent, these dishes will definitely hit the spot and make you feel better. So next time you need a pick-me-up meal, don’t hesitate to indulge in one (or all) of these comforting foods. Your mood and your taste buds will thank you.
