Embracing Comfort Foods on Chilly Days

As the temperature drops and winter winds start to bite, there's an innate desire to seek warmth and coziness. And what better way to satisfy this craving than with comforting, hearty foods that not only fill our stomachs but also warm our souls? 

Yes, we're talking about the magic of comfort foods. Whether it's the rich, creamy texture, the soothing aroma, or the nostalgic flavors, comfort foods have a unique way of making us feel at home.

Why Our Bodies Crave Comfort Foods on a Cold Day

1. Biological Response: When it's cold outside, our bodies naturally crave more calories to generate heat and maintain a comfortable temperature. Comfort foods, often rich in carbohydrates and fats, provide a quick energy boost, helping us combat the winter chill.

2. Psychological Comfort: Beyond the physical, comfort foods offer psychological warmth. They evoke memories of home-cooked meals, family gatherings, and the simple joy of savoring a delicious dish on a cold day. This emotional connection is powerful and can instantly lift our spirits.

3. Sensory Pleasure: The textures and flavors of comfort foods engage our senses, providing a sensory pleasure that goes beyond mere sustenance. Whether it's the crunch of a perfectly baked crust or the creamy goodness of a hearty soup, comfort foods are a celebration for our taste buds.

Now that we've explored why our bodies and minds yearn for comfort foods during winter, let's dive into the kitchen and whip up some soul-warming recipes.

Chicken Pot Pie - A Classic Comfort Delight

Ingredients

• 1 pound Edwards Family Farms boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed (click here to buy your pastured chicken breasts)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 2/3 cup milk
• 2 pre-made pie crusts (or make your own!)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until no longer pink.
3. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, celery seed, and onion powder until well combined.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in peas and carrots, then remove from heat.
6. Roll out one pie crust and place it in the bottom of a pie dish. Pour the chicken mixture on top.
7. Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and cut a few slits on top for ventilation.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Pork and Apple Stew - A Hearty Hug in a Bowl

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds Edwards Family Farms pork shoulder, cubed (click here to buy your forest-raised pork shoulder)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 apples, peeled and diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides.
2. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
3. Stir in carrots, apples, and potatoes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and apple cider. Add thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until pork is tender.

Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff - A Creamy Classic

Ingredients

• 5 pounds Edwards Family Farms beef sirloin, thinly sliced (click here to buy your grass fed beef sirloin)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked egg noodles for serving

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned. Remove beef from the skillet.
2. In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Sauté until softened.
3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring to combine.
4. Gradually add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until the mixture thickens.
5. Return the beef to the skillet, stir in sour cream, and cook until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Serve over cooked egg noodles.

Remember, these recipes aren't just about filling your stomach; they're about filling your heart and home with warmth. 

So, gather your loved ones, put on your favorite cozy sweater, and savor the joy that comes with indulging in comforting winter dishes.

What is your favorite cold day comfort recipe? Share it in the comments below!