The Soul on a Plate

Daily writing prompt

What’s your go-to comfort food?

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Hello dear friends,
I hope this blog finds you in a cheerful and cozy mood.

Today’s writing prompt is as delightful as a plate of warm food on a rainy day—“What’s your go-to comfort food?” Just reading this question brings a gentle smile to my face and a sudden craving to my stomach.

Because food is not merely about taste—it’s a feeling, a memory, a hug in edible form.

What is Comfort Food, Anyway?

Comfort food isn’t defined by any culinary dictionary. It’s not fancy or complicated. It’s personal. It’s the dish that wraps you in its arms when life feels heavy.

It’s the smell that takes you back to your childhood, the texture that reminds you of home, and the flavour that comforts your heart more than your stomach.

It is, as the word suggests, comforting—offering a sense of familiarity and reassurance, especially during moments of stress, sadness, or nostalgia.

The Science Behind the Sizzle

Did you know there’s actual science behind why comfort foods feel so satisfying?

When we eat something we love, especially carbohydrates or dishes associated with fond memories, our brain releases dopamine—a “feel-good” chemical that boosts mood.

Comfort food is often associated with emotional memories stored in the brain’s limbic system. That’s why a simple khichdi can outshine a gourmet buffet on a bad day.

So when we say dal-chawal is healing, it truly is—neurologically speaking.

My Go-To Comfort Food

Now, coming to the heart of the question: What’s my go-to comfort food?

It’s “Aloo Paratha with Curd and Mango Pickle.”
Warm, flaky, golden-brown parathas filled with spiced mashed potatoes, served with homemade white butter, cool curd, and tangy mango pickle on the side.

Just writing about it is therapeutic.

To me, it’s not just a dish—it’s a memory of lazy Sunday mornings, mother’s loving hands rolling the dough, and the irresistible aroma wafting from the kitchen.

It’s the sound of laughter at breakfast, the warmth of family, and the simplicity of love expressed through food.

It reminds me that no matter where life takes you, there’s always a plate waiting at home to heal your soul.

Why That Particular Dish?

Everyone’s comfort food is tied to emotion. For some, it’s maggi, for others it’s ice cream, or maybe a bowl of ramen. But for me, aloo paratha ticks all the boxes:

• Texture: Crispy outside, soft inside.
  
• Flavour: Mildly spicy, slightly tangy, perfectly balanced.
  
• Memory: Deeply rooted in childhood and family warmth.
  
• Ease: It’s simple enough to cook, even on a low day.
  
• Satiation: It fills not just the belly but the heart.

Comfort food doesn’t try to impress; it tries to heal.

The Universal Language of Food

Interestingly, comfort food varies across cultures, but its effect is universal.

In Japan, it might be miso soup; in Italy, it’s pasta al forno. In the U.S., it could be mac and cheese or chicken soup.

And in every Indian household, it differs—rajma chawal, khichdi, poha, halwa, or even a cup of strong adrak chai with biscuits.

We all carry within us the taste of our memories.

Comfort Food in Difficult Times

There’s a reason why people turn to their favourite meals during heartbreak, stress, or illness. Comfort food provides psychological grounding—it’s familiar, dependable, and forgiving.

During the pandemic, many of us found ourselves cooking those old recipes again. Not to impress Instagram followers, but to reconnect with ourselves and our roots.

Sometimes, when the world outside feels out of control, a warm bowl of food is the anchor we hold on to.

And finally: A Plate of Peace

So, dear friends, what is your go-to comfort food?

Is it something you grew up with? Something you cook when you’re tired? Or something you order on a rainy day with your favorite song playing in the background?

Whatever it is, treasure it. It’s more than just food—it’s your personal antidote to stress. It’s your edible lullaby.

As for me, I’ll be in the kitchen soon, flipping an aloo paratha, humming an old song, and pouring a little love onto my plate.

Quote to Remember:
“Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate.” – Alan D. Wolfelt

So go ahead—plate your memories, savour your nostalgia, and celebrate your comfort.

Until next time,
Stay happy, eat well, and keep smiling! ❤️

— Vijay Verma
 www.retiredkalam.com

Categories: Uncategorized

Tags: #Travel, cooking, dailyprompt, dailyprompt-2005, food, recipe, recipes