5 Soothing Dinners That Are Easy Enough When You’re Sick
When you’re feeling under the weather, the last thing you want to do is fuss over a complicated meal. That’s why we’ve rounded up five simple, comforting dinners that are as healing as they are easy to prepare.
These dishes have been loved by generations around the world for their soothing properties and are packed with ingredients that support recovery.
1. Chicken Soup
Benefits:
Often dubbed “Jewish penicillin,” chicken soup is a classic remedy for colds and flu. It’s loaded with nutrients from the chicken and vegetables, which help reduce inflammation and boost hydration. The warm broth can ease a sore throat and clear nasal congestion, making it a go-to comfort food when you’re sick.
Origins and Popularity:
Chicken soup has been cherished in many cultures, from Jewish matzo ball soup in Eastern Europe to clear chicken soups in Asia. It’s a universal dish that varies in spices and ingredients but always delivers comfort and care.
2. Congee (Rice Porridge)
Benefits:
Congee is easy on the stomach and a great option for those with low appetite. It’s hydrating and can be enriched with ginger, scallions, and lean proteins like chicken or fish for added nourishment. Ginger, often used in congee, has natural anti-inflammatory and nausea-reducing properties.
Origins and Popularity:
A staple in Chinese, Thai, and other Asian cuisines, congee has been a comfort food for centuries. It’s especially common in households during illness because of its mild flavor and gentle texture.
3. Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese
Benefits:
Tomato soup is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene, which support immune health. Pairing it with a grilled cheese sandwich offers a dose of comfort carbs, which can be especially soothing when you’re sick. The warm, tangy soup helps alleviate congestion and soothes the throat.
Origins and Popularity:
Tomato soup and grilled cheese became popular in the United States during the 20th century, particularly as a comforting and affordable meal during economic downturns. Today, it’s a nostalgic favorite.
4. Khichdi (Lentil and Rice Porridge)
Benefits:
This Indian dish is a powerhouse of nutrients, combining rice and lentils for a complete protein. It’s gentle on the digestive system and often spiced with turmeric, which has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It’s light yet filling, making it ideal for when you’re unwell.
Origins and Popularity:
Khichdi is a staple comfort food across India, often referred to as “sick food” due to its simple preparation and digestibility. It’s a dish that transcends regions and cultures within the subcontinent.
5. Miso Soup
Benefits:
Miso soup is a light yet nourishing option packed with probiotics from fermented miso paste, which supports gut health. Seaweed adds minerals like iodine and iron, while tofu provides protein. The warm broth hydrates and soothes, helping to clear nasal passages.
Origins and Popularity:
Originating in Japan, miso soup has been a staple in Japanese households and is often served as part of daily meals. Its simplicity and health benefits have made it popular worldwide.
