Many people turn to sugar for comfort but this approach is more about emotional eating and mood, and in some people the can lead to guilt around eating.
Comforting food should be both nourishing, nurturing and flavoursome. Very savoury flavours and umami are perfect and can be found in bowl foods like soups, broths, casseroles, stews and curries.
Many people turn to sugar for comfort. Unfortunately, this approach is more about emotional eating and mood and can lead to guilt around eating.
Comfort food should be both nourishing, nurturing and flavoursome. Very savoury flavours and umami are perfect for bowl foods such as soups, broths, casseroles, stews and curries.
Try these foods on a cold winter day wrapped up in a blanket on the sofa for maximum effect. Here’s my current favourite: a chunky chicken broth that is high in fibre, packs a punch with its carbs, is chopping board to bowl in under an hour and is absolutely delicious.
Serves 4
Preparation 10 minutes
Cooking time 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken thigh, trimmed and cut into chunks
- 1 onion , finely chopped
- 3 carrots , finely chopped
- 3 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 1 bay leaf , fresh or dried
- 800ml vegetable or chicken stock
- 2 x 400g cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- Flat leaf parsley, chopped
Season with salt and black pepper
Chicken broth – method
Heat the oil in a large pan, add the chicken, then fry until lightly browned. Add the chopped vegetables and fry for a few mins more.
Add the potatoes, bay leaf and stock then bring to the boil and stir. Reduce the heat and check for seasoning then cover and cook gently for 40 minutes.
Add the beans and parsley then simmer with the lid off for another 5 minutes.
Serve with chunks of crusty bread.
If you are inspired by Chunky chicken broth: Quick high-fibre winter comfort food and want more hearty winter recipes, visit our Food and Drink channel.
About the Author / Rob Hobson
Rob Hobson is a consultant nutritionist working with wellbeing supplement brand Healthspan. Rob also works with private clients and can be found at www.robhobson.co.uk
