When we’re under the weather with the flu or a cold, relying solely on the medicine cabinet may not be enough to make us feel better. In such times, turning to comforting, traditional foods can also play a significant role in improving our well-being.
While the healing properties of homemade dishes like your family’s schnitzel, grandma’s soup, or a neighbor’s comforting meal may not withstand scientific scrutiny, the nostalgic foods we yearn for could be just what the doctor ordered.
So, what do culinary professionals crave when they are feeling unwell? To find out, I spoke with several local sous-chefs about their favorite go-to comfort foods.
Zachary Mccutchen, from Sugo On Surrey in Guelph, recalls his grandmother’s special soup and grilled cheese combo from his childhood sick days. The roasted red pepper soup with Swiss grilled cheese, infused with thyme, oregano, and earthy spices, held a magical touch that provided comfort during illness. When feeling under the weather, Zachary opts for a creative version of grilled cheese with smoked gouda, garlic aioli, and caramelized onions, or a classic Oklahoma smashburger for a pick-me-up.
Daniel Kuczynski, working at Charcoal Steakhouse in Kitchener, reminisces about his father’s barszcz, a chunky red beet soup reminiscent of Ukrainian borscht, which always brought comfort. When feeling rundown, Daniel turns to kotlet schabowy, a thicker version of pork schnitzel, for a nourishing meal.
Jason Gilmour, from The Mule in Cambridge, cherishes his grandmother’s colcannon, a traditional Irish dish of buttery mashed potatoes with kale and green onions. Another family favorite is his mother’s beef and potato stew, a simple yet heartwarming meal. Aside from his childhood comforts, Jason also found solace in a friend’s spicy Lao congee, a rice porridge packed with bird’s eye chili, garlic, lemongrass, and chicken stock, which worked wonders during sickness.
While these comfort foods may not have scientifically proven healing powers, they hold a special place in the hearts of these sous-chefs, offering a sense of warmth and nourishment during times of illness.