All articles tagged with #comfort food
A comforting and light Korean cabbage soup called Baechu Doenjang Guk, made with fermented soybean paste, offers a warm, soothing meal after indulgent holiday foods, perfect for a cozy, healthy dinner.
The article explores the history and diversity of the world's best soups, highlighting 20 notable examples from various cultures, including Nigerian banga, Vietnamese pho, Ukrainian borscht, French bouillabaisse, and Thai tom yum, emphasizing their cultural significance and unique ingredients.
A 2023 study by Italian scientists found that eating pasta triggers positive emotional responses similar to listening to favorite music or watching sports, due to its effect on endorphin and serotonin levels, making it a comfort food that can boost mood and reduce stress.
A new study published in Neuron reveals that chronic stress can lead to increased consumption of high-calorie, sweet foods by overriding the brain's natural reward system, particularly affecting the lateral habenula. This can result in weight gain and obesity, as stress diminishes the brain's ability to regulate satiety. Researchers found that blocking the stress-related molecule NPY in mice reduced their preference for comfort foods. Experts suggest mindful eating as a strategy to combat stress-induced unhealthy eating habits.
Chronic stress can lead to increased cravings for high-calorie comfort foods, potentially contributing to obesity, as stress affects the brain's reward system, according to a study by the Garvan Institute of Medical Research. The research found that stress can override the brain's natural satiety signals, encouraging overeating. To combat stress eating, experts recommend having nutritious, protein-rich foods available, practicing mindful eating, and planning meals to avoid impulsive snacking. These strategies can help maintain energy and mood during stressful times.
Campbell's has introduced a new limited edition Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup, infused with the flavors of a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting experience. The soup can be prepared with water for a robust tomato taste or with milk for a cheesier flavor, catering to individual preferences. Available for a limited time, the company is also hosting a sweepstakes to give away 412 cans in celebration of National Grilled Cheese Day.
Several chain restaurants are offering Valentine's Day deals, including Chick-fil-A's heart-shaped trays filled with select menu items, P.F. Chang's free "DUMPlings" for the recently dumped, Pizza Hut's limited-edition hot honey "goodbye pies," Sonic's Reba McEntire's Sweetheart Meal, Panera Bread's 20% off You Pick Two menu for MyPanera members, Popeyes' heart-shaped strawberry biscuits, and Jimmy John's red velvet desserts.
KFC introduces its new Smash'd Potato Bowls priced at $3.49, featuring a combination of French fries, mashed potatoes, bacon, shredded cheese, and cheese sauce. The dish is described as a unique twist on comfort food and can be upgraded with five hand-breaded chicken nuggets for an additional $2. KFC also launched a $20 Taste of KFC meal, including six pieces of chicken and four sides.
Eater staff shares their favorite chicken soup recipes, including chicken and rice soup with ginger and turmeric, lemony chicken soup with fennel and dill, chicken pho noodle soup, and avgolemono chicken soup with rice, each offering unique flavors and ingredients to provide comfort and warmth during the cold season.
Eating fatty comfort foods when stressed can worsen the effects of stress on endothelial function, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. A study found that consuming high-fat meals prior to a stressful event led to a reduction in vascular function and oxygenation in the brain. Plant-based foods rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, as well as healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids, may help improve endothelial dysfunction and protect vascular health.
A taste test of six popular canned chicken noodle soups ranked Campbell's Condensed Chicken Noodle Soup as the least favorite due to its lack of vegetables and dominant salty flavor. Wegmans Organic Chicken Noodle Soup had a thin broth and dry chicken, while Annie's Organic Chicken Noodle Soup had a subtle herby note but lacked flavor. Amy's No Chicken Noodle Soup, a vegan option, impressed with its moist tofu and well-seasoned broth. Progresso Traditional Chicken Noodle Soup stood out with generous chunks of chicken and carrots, a rich flavor, and a good balance of broth and fillings. Pacific Foods Organic Chicken Noodle Soup had a fresh, homemade taste and a nice balance of broth, veggies, and noodles.
Researchers have identified a brain molecule called Proenkephalin, located in the hypothalamus, that plays a crucial role in triggering comfort food cravings after experiencing stress. By exposing mice to a predator's odor, the study found that this molecule activates neurons associated with high-fat food consumption. The discovery not only provides insights into the mechanisms of emotional eating but also suggests potential therapeutic targets for addressing stress-induced overeating.
Zippy's, a popular Hawaiian restaurant known for its comfort food, has opened its first location outside of Hawaii in Las Vegas. The decision to open in Las Vegas was influenced by the large number of Hawaiians who visit or reside in the area. The restaurant offers a diverse menu that combines Japanese, American, Chinese, and Hawaiian flavors. The opening has generated excitement among locals, and the establishment is expected to create around 200 new jobs in the valley. Initially operating from 6 a.m. to midnight, Zippy's plans to eventually transition to a 24-hour operation.
Country music artist Jessie James Decker shares a comforting fall dinner recipe for chicken thigh bake and a decadent deep-dish cookie skillet dessert from her new cookbook, "Just Eat: More Than 100 Easy and Delicious Recipes That Taste Just Like Home." The chicken thigh bake is bursting with delicious flavors and includes bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, green beans, potatoes, baby carrots, and rice. The deep-dish cookie skillet is filled with melty chocolate chips and can be topped with powdered sugar for an extra touch.
October 8 is National Pierogi Day, and while it's a great excuse to indulge in these delicious dumplings, they can be enjoyed year-round. Making homemade pierogies is surprisingly easy, and there are countless variations for both the dough and fillings. From classic potato and cheese to nontraditional options like "Everything Bagel" or Ethiopian-inspired dessert pierogies, the possibilities are endless. Whether boiled or pan-fried, pierogies are best enjoyed fresh or frozen, and they can be served with caramelized onions, sour cream, or a variety of sauces.