Winter comfort foods, with their rich and hearty flavours, provide a welcome reprieve from the cold and serve as a source of warmth. Sometimes, all it takes is the flavourful aroma of a freshly baked pudding or a delicious pasta to set a bad day, right.
By: Alexis Tshangana
Comfort foods nourish both the body and soul
When the weather is cold, often we turn to comfort foods to raise our spirits. Winter comfort foods, with their rich and hearty flavours, provide a welcome reprieve from the cold and serve as a source of warmth. Sometimes, all it takes is the flavourful aroma of a freshly baked pudding or a delicious pasta to set a bad day, right. Comfort foods don’t only play a profound role in nourishing our bodies but our souls too.
“Our memories are filled with occasions where food has played a pivot role, and our five senses – especially taste and smell – become heightened when we come across those foods, creating a nostalgic feeling,” explains Farah Barry, La Parada Brand Chef at La Parada Kloof street. “These comfort foods, through our emotions, become go-to-treats for when we are having a bad day.”
Often comfort food has a bad reputation for those times when it comes to over-indulgence and repetitive behaviour, but when comfort food is used for comfort and not a source of dependence, the pros can encompass both the body and the mind:
- Emotional well-being. Comfort foods have the remarkable ability to evoke feelings of comfort, nostalgia and joy, taking us back to a happy memory. Research has shown that indulging in comfort foods can trigger the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with feelings of pleasure and reward.
- Connection and community. Sharing a comforting meal with loved ones rekindles bonds of camaraderie, creating moments of joy and togetherness that linger long after the plates have been cleared. Even the act of preparing comfort foods can be a labour of love, a gesture of care and affection for those we hold dear. From heirloom recipes passed down through generations to impromptu kitchen experiments, cooking and sharing comfort foods create opportunities for creativity, collaboration, and celebration.
- Cultural Heritage. Across the globe, every cuisine boasts its own repertoire of comforting classics, each with a unique blend of flavours, techniques, and traditions. From spicy filled tacos to hearty Italian pasta dishes, these culinary treasures reflect the history, geography, and values of their respective cultures.
- Self-care and Wellness. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, self-care is more important than ever, and what better way to practice self-care than by indulging in a comforting meal? Whether it’s a bowl of hearty soup on a cold winter’s day or a plate of freshly baked cookies after a long day at work, comfort foods provide a much-needed opportunity to slow down, savour the moment, and treat ourselves with kindness and compassion.
“Comfort foods need not be indulgent or unhealthy,” explains Strone Henry, New Product Development Chef at La Parada Kloof street. “With a bit of creativity and culinary ingenuity, it’s possible to create healthier versions of our favourite comfort classics, using locally sourced ingredients with fresh produce and mindful cooking techniques. By prioritising nutrition without sacrificing flavour, we can enjoy the comforts of home cooking while supporting our overall health and well-being,” explains Henry.
Comfort foods are far more than just a source of sustenance, they are conduits of comfort, connection, and cultural heritage, enriching our lives in myriad ways. From nourishing our emotional well-being to fostering bonds of community and self-care, these beloved dishes remind us of the simple joys and pleasures that make life worth savouring.
