Tag: comfort foods

Revealed: The world’s 10 favourite comfort foods

  • New data from HelloFresh Ireland has unveiled the world’s top 10 comfort foods
  • Chocolate chip cookies, lasagne and mac and cheese take the top spots
  • Culinary expert reveals what makes foods comforting and recommends recipes to try this winter

As the weather gets chillier and evenings darker, many of us are making ourselves cosy and cooking up our favourite comfort foods. It’s no surprise then, that the demand for comfort food rises each winter, with a 19% increase in Google searches last month in Ireland and a 8% increase in TikTok searches. 

But which comforting recipes are people turning to?

New data from HelloFresh Ireland has uncovered the world’s top 10 favourite comfort foods. Using a comprehensive analysis of Reddit and Google data, the foods that have been found to bring the most solace are:

World’s Favourite Comfort Foods

  1. Chocolate Chip Cookies
  2. Lasagne
  3. Mac and Cheese
  4. Mashed Potatoes
  5. Brownie
  6. Guacamole
  7. Pizza
  8. Cornbread
  9. Chicken Noodle Soup
  10. Chocolate Cake

Head of Culinary at HelloFresh Ireland, Hannah Duxbury, who specialises in designing recipes with mass appeal, discusses why she believes these foods are favoured: “Comfort foods often have a nostalgic or emotional connection to our past. They provide a sense of familiarity and security, triggering positive feelings.

“The top 10 foods identified in this study are rich in flavours, textures, and often associated with happy memories, making them irresistible choices for people seeking comfort in a plate. At HelloFresh Ireland, we find that many hearty Irish recipes are among our most popular for similar reasons.”

Carbohydrates stimulate the production of serotonin, which is associated with mood regulation and a sense of well-being. The consumption of hearty carbs can lead to a temporary increase in serotonin levels, contributing to feelings of comfort and happiness. What’s more, the satisfying and filling nature of carb dishes also provides a physical feeling of fullness and contentment, further enhancing their appeal as comfort foods.

Hannah has also provided recipes that she recommends turning to for comfort:

Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup

“The warm broth of this soup is hydrating, while the chicken and vegetables provide a blend of flavours that can be both familiar and nourishing.”

Sausages with Spinach Colcannon

“Mashed potatoes are the world’s fourth favourite comfort food and rightly so. They’re a good source of carbohydrates, which we know can boost serotonin levels. Add spinach for extra nutrients and turn into colcannon for the ultimate Irish nostalgia meal.”

Mexican Style Cheesy Beef Hash with Freshly Made Guacamole

“Guacamole is another great comfort food because not only is it rich and creamy, but avocado’s superfood properties mean it’s packed with mood-boosting nutrients. Serve with cheesy crispy potatoes in a Mexican hash for even more comfort.”

More comfort food recipes can be found at HelloFresh Ireland’s recipe hub. 

Pasta and Pizza: The Hangover Heroes, says doctor

Medical advisor, Dr Rashid Bani of Orange County CBD has just dropped a bombshell on traditional hangover cures. Forget the bland toast and black coffee; the real heroes for battling post-party blues are none other than the beloved duo: pasta and pizza!

The Hangover Conundrum:

Hangovers are more than just dehydration. They’re a complex cocktail of electrolyte imbalance, blood sugar fluctuations, and sleep disturbances, all thanks to our friend, alcohol. The symptoms? Headaches, nausea, and a feeling akin to being trampled by a herd of elephants.

Enter the Carb Crusaders: Pasta and Pizza

Now, here’s the twist in the tale. While you’ve probably been advised to stick to light, easy-to-digest foods, hearty carbohydrates found in pasta and pizza can be surprisingly effective in combating hangover symptoms. Let’s break it down:

Carb Power

Pasta: It’s not just comfort food; it’s a science-backed energy restorer. Pasta slowly replenishes your blood sugar levels, helping to banish that hangover lethargy.

Pizza: More than just a midnight snack, the crust delivers a much-needed blood sugar boost. Opt for healthier toppings to add nutritional value.

Secret Hydration

That tomato sauce isn’t just delicious – it’s also helping rehydrate your body, a key to hangover recovery.

Electrolyte Magic:

Cheese and tomatoes are more than toppings; they’re a powerhouse of sodium and potassium, vital for restoring electrolyte balance.

Mood Lifter:

Comfort foods have a psychological effect. A slice of pizza or a bowl of pasta might be the hug your serotonin levels need.

The Full Recovery Package: It’s Not Just About Food

While pasta and pizza can be surprisingly effective, they’re part of a broader hangover recovery strategy:

Hydration Station: Water is your best friend. Rehydrate to help your body bounce back.

Snooze to Soothe: Give your body the rest it needs to heal.

Move a Little: Light exercise can elevate your mood and energy.

Avoid More Alcohol: It only postpones the hangover.

Dr. Rashid Bani of Orange County CBD says: “In a surprising twist to hangover recovery, pasta and pizza emerge as unlikely yet effective heroes.

“So next time you find yourself battling the aftermath of a night out, remember this doctor’s advice: a slice of pizza and a bowl of pasta might just be your best allies.”