We’ve all heard and used the phrase comfort food. But what does it actually mean? What is comfort food? Comfort food is any nourishing, familiar food that gives a sense of emotional well-being and nostalgic pleasure. They are foods that take us back in time, back to our childhood memories and to a safe, familiar place, even if only for a short while. Everyone will have their own special comfort food that they will turn to when they need to be comforted. There is no one specific dish. There is no one “dish” fits all in our times of need. Comfort foods offer a warm hug from the inside out. They are food for the soul.
Comfort foods can be anything, and I am sure they are found in every culture. Usually, though, at least in the Western world, they are foods that are high-carbohydrate and high-fat foods. These are the foods that trigger the release of the feel-good chemicals, like dopamine, in the brain. These comfort foods, are usually warm and simple, and help relieve stress when we are anxious or nervous. There is no such thing as counting calories when we need an extra hug.
Here are some of the most popular comfort foods in the United States:
Mac & Cheese
Chicken Pot Pie
Mashed Potatoes
Pizza
Soup, especially chicken noodle soup.
There is a reason these foods are some of our favorites. Not only do they taste good, but they make us feel good too. We all need an extra pick-me-up from time to time. The foods we eat can also be the “friends” we need.
Have a great day and make everyday great. Life is short. Live life to the fullest and make the most out of everyday. ‘Til next time.
A Jeanne in the Kitchen 