10 Comfort Foods to Soothe You When You’re Feeling Sick

Chicken Soup

To make chicken soup, start by boiling a chicken breast until it’s fully cooked, then shred it into bite-sized pieces and set aside. In a large pot, sauté chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a bit of oil until they become tender and fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil, then add the shredded chicken and noodles. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the noodles are fully cooked. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. This soothing and nourishing soup is perfect for easing congestion and providing comfort when you’re feeling unwell.

Ginger Tea

For a soothing ginger tea, peel and thinly slice fresh ginger. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the ginger slices and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. Strain the tea to remove the ginger pieces, then pour it into a cup. Add honey and lemon to taste, which not only enhances the flavor but also provides additional soothing properties. This warm and spicy tea is excellent for relieving nausea, soothing a sore throat, and boosting your immune system.

Oatmeal

Prepare a comforting bowl of oatmeal by cooking rolled oats in either water or milk, following the package instructions. Once the oats are cooked and have reached your desired consistency, stir in a spoonful of honey for sweetness and top with sliced banana. Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon over the top for added flavor and warmth. Oatmeal is gentle on the stomach and provides a good source of fiber and nutrients to keep you energized while you recover.

Toast with Avocado

For a quick and nutritious snack, toast a slice of whole-grain bread until it’s golden brown. While the bread is toasting, mash a ripe avocado in a bowl with a fork, then mix in a squeeze of lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a bit of pepper. Spread the avocado mixture evenly over the toast. This simple dish is packed with healthy fats and vitamins, making it a great choice to boost your energy and support your immune system.

Yogurt with Honey and Berries

Scoop a generous serving of plain yogurt into a bowl, then drizzle with honey for natural sweetness. Top the yogurt with a handful of mixed berries such as blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries. This combination provides probiotics, antioxidants, and vitamins that are beneficial for gut health and immune support, making it an ideal snack or light meal when you’re under the weather.

Garlic Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice a baguette into pieces and prepare a mixture of minced garlic, softened butter, and chopped parsley. Spread this garlic butter mixture generously over each slice of baguette. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, and this tasty bread is a comforting side to enjoy with soups or on its own.

Banana Smoothie

To make a creamy banana smoothie, blend a ripe banana with Greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, and a splash of milk until smooth. This smoothie is easy to digest and provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and probiotics, making it a great option for a quick and nutritious meal when you’re not feeling your best.

Mashed Potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping potatoes into even pieces, then boil them in salted water until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mashed potatoes are easy to eat and digest, providing comfort and sustenance when you’re sick.

Rice Porridge (Congee)

For a soothing rice porridge, also known as congee, start by simmering rice in a mixture of water and chicken broth until the rice breaks down and the mixture becomes thick and creamy. Stir in grated ginger and sliced green onions for added flavor. Season with soy sauce to taste. This gentle and nourishing dish is easy on the stomach and provides warmth and comfort, making it ideal for when you’re feeling ill.

Scrambled Eggs

Whisk together eggs with a splash of milk, and season with salt and pepper. Melt a bit of butter in a pan over medium heat, then pour in the egg mixture. Stir gently and continuously until the eggs are just set and still slightly creamy. Scrambled eggs are a soft and easy-to-eat option that provides protein and nutrients to help you regain strength and energy.