Sometimes, our souls need a little pick-me-up. With all the stress around us, it’s easy to feel lost. One simple way to bring a sense of healing is through food, especially comfort food that nourishes both body and spirit.
I believe there’s a distinct difference between regular comfort food and what I like to call “soul food.” For me, that soul food is broth.
I still remember my mom’s chicken soup. She would boil a whole chicken, simmer it for hours, and then add sliced carrots before serving. That warm soup, with thin egg noodles, brought us together. We’d enjoy the chicken alongside fried potatoes and a simple salad. Delicious!
Then there was her beef broth. She didn’t make it often, which made it feel extra special. She’d simmer a large rump roast with onions and green peppers, creating a rich, healing broth. The aroma alone was comforting. We’d serve it with rice and sliced beef on the side. It had this incredible power to make everything feel right again.
You can’t replicate that feeling from a can or a box. A well-made broth is truly “the cure for what ails ya.” In fact, research shows that broth can ease cold symptoms and improve mental wellness. It may even help with sleep quality.
I love broth for its healing properties. If I have the time, I try to make big batches and freeze them for when I need a little soul restoration. I often add garlic and ginger, too. This combo is beneficial for various ailments and boosts the immune system.
Interestingly, many cultures have their own versions of restorative broths. For instance, traditional bone broth has gained popularity recently for its health benefits. It’s rich in nutrients and often cited as a superfood.
Today, I’m making a simpler version using frozen meatballs instead of beef strips—welcome adjustments for changing times and budgets! What about you? What foods heal and comfort your soul? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!