Comfort food beyond ice cream and chips!
With the whole world seemingly on standstill due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of people have been left feeling anxious as they try to adjust to the new normal. From bingeing on Netflix series to baking every kind of bread possible, everyone has been looking for ways to cope in this time of uncertainty - and many have run to food for comfort.
We’re sure you have your own set of choices when it comes to comfort food, but just in case you’ve found yourself wondering how others are finding comfort during this time, through food, it might look like this:
Singapore - Roti Prata
This Indian-influenced flatbread is buttery and crispy on the outside with a chewy bite. Most popularly paired with curry, it can also be enjoyed with sweetened condensed milk and other dipping sauces allowing it to suit the tastes of many.
Taiwan - Braised Pork Rice
Tender braised pork with a thick sweet and salty gravy is topped over steamed rice, making this comforting bowl a go-to for Taiwanese locals.
Hong Kong - Congee
A breakfast staple, congee is a Chinese rice porridge often enjoyed with side dishes like fish, meat, or dumplings. Served steaming hot, many would describe like a warm hug from the inside.
Korea - Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
Also a crowd-favorite street food, this stir-fried rice cake treat is chewy, sweet and spicy. It is usually enjoyed with fish cakes, scallions, and melted cheese to balance out the heat.
Japan - Okonomiyaki
Another popular street food, this Japanese savory pancake is made with wheat flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and various fresh meat. Toppings are customizable to one’s preference such as Japanese mayo, cheese, dried bonito flakes, and more!
Thailand - Khao Pat (Fried Rice)
This comfort food is the ultimate fried rice dish in Thai cuisine. Made with Jasmine rice, a stickier and more aromatic than the typical long-grained rice, to give the dish a richer flavor and texture.
Indonesia - Rendang
The act of cooking rendang is a labor of love in itself. It is slow-cooked on low heat for several hours, and sometimes even for a few days, in order to make this meaty dish tender and oozing with spice and flavour.
Vietnam - Pho (Rice Noodle Soup)
Pho is a Vietnamese soup often made with chicken or beef broth and enjoyed with rice noodles, scallions, Thai basil, bean sprouts, and sirloin. Sriracha is often added up top for an added kick.
Greece - Moussaka
This baked dish is made with all things delicious: eggplant, potatoes, tomato sauce, bechamel and ground meat. No wonder it’s a go-to comfort dish for Greek locals!
France - French Onion Soup
A hearty soup made with a base of meat stock and onions, served with gratineed croutons and cheese on top. Usually enjoyed with a main entree and white wine, French locals also turn to this budget-friendly dish for comfort.
Canada - Poutine
Canadians like to enjoy their french fries with cheese curds and brown gravy.
You can’t call yourself a potato connoisseur if you haven’t tried the Candian poutine. This plate of fries is layered with cheese curds and gravy which make for a yummy treat.
Mexico - Chilaquiles
This traditional Mexican dish is made with lightly fried corn tortillas cooked in salsa and covered with cheese. Meat, vegetables, and other ingredients like beans and corn can also be added for a hearty treat.
Spain - Empanada
Although empanadas are considered a comfort food in many countries, it did originate in Spain. The original puff bread recipe is filled with savory vegetables and meat and make for the perfect bite-sized meal!
Australia - Meat Pie
An iconic dish Down Under, Aussie meat pie is palm-sized and oozing with meat and gravy. Other variants include vegetables, onions, mushrooms, and cheese as well.
India - Samosas
Indians like their food very rich and filling, both of which can be found in a samosa -- a baked or fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes, meat, vegetables, and cheese.
United Kingdom - Fish and Chips
Introduced by immigrants, this ultimate duo has become an iconic dish in the United Kingdom. Fish dipped in batter and deep fried is served with french fries -- called chips in England. Simple, but packs a punch.
Czech Republic - Smazeny Syr
The name of this dish literally translates to “fried cheese” and is usually made from Edam, Swiss, or Gouda cheese coated with bread crumbs that is then deep fried.
Germany - Flammkuchen
The German version of pizza. The thinly rolled bread dough is cooked in flames, covered with fromage blanc, and traditionally topped with pepperoni and caramelized onions.
South Africa - Melktert
One of the most popular African desserts, Melktert is also known as milk tart and is made from the most basic ingredients: milk, flour, sugar, and eggs.
Belgium - Chicon au gratin
This Belgian comfort food is also the country’s national dish, and rightfully so! Belgian endive is braised in butter, wrapped in ham, and baked until golden brown.