Speaking of comfort—I imagine we could all use a bit more of it right now. What we really need is a hug, but until we’re back to that mode of human-ness, food is just going to have to do. It occurred to me recently that comfort food is any food that, like a hug, wraps us in a flood of fond memories and emotions. Take the classics—chicken noodle soup and chocolate chip cookies—they’re the “classics” because for many of us they hold memories of being cared-for as a child.
But then there are the more unusual comfort foods—those that are unique to our individual histories. For me, comfort food is cereal. I used to eat it everyday after school feeling “home again,” safe, and complete. It was my re-fuel after cross-country practice, the “food love” that I shared with my dad, and the grocery item that my mom made sure we always had in abundant supply. I find myself eating it a lot these days. A sign?
In lieu of giving you my recipe for the optimal bowl of cereal or trying to imagine or re-create the foods that you turn to for a hug, I thought I’d share some recipes that, for me, have comforting characteristics:
- A warm vessel: my Shaved Asparagus & Sausage Farro Bowls
- Delightful sloppiness: my Grilled Portobello & Pickled Pepper Sandwiches
- Salty seasoning: my Baharat & Blue Oven Fries
- Lingering aroma: my Chocolate Flecked Banana Muffins with Salted Pecan Crumble
- Bite-size cuteness: my Brown Butter Pretzel & M&M’s® Two-Bite Cookies
- Gather-around attraction: my Black Bean Skillet Tacos
Naturally, these recipes all have a modern, “off-script” twist, but they’re sure to become some of the highlights of this period in our lives when we’re uncomfortable (yes), but perhaps also on the brink of illumination… when we’re apart, but in this together.
With a virtual hug,
Ellen
