When the rain pours down, there's nothing better than indulging in warm, hearty dishes that bring a sense of warmth and comfort. Each of these meals, from a different corner of the globe, is sure to keep you snug and satisfied as you listen to the rain tapping against your window. From the rich warmth of French onion soup, blanketed with gooey cheese, to the hearty layers of Greek moussaka, these dishes offer a delicious escape from the stormy weather. Dive into these flavours from across the globe and make your rainy days truly delicious, enjoying the warmth and comfort they bring to your table.
Here Are 7 Comfort Foods From Around The World To Try This Monsoon Season:
1. Swedish Meatballs:
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Swedish meatballs are a classic dish known for their flavorful meatballs, usually served with lingonberry sauce and creamy gravy. They are a staple at most holidays and special events in Sweden. These savoury meatballs are typically made with a blend of ground beef and pork, swimming in a delicious gravy of meat juices, flour, and butter.
2. Congee
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Congee, also known as rice porridge or rice congee, is a type of thick soup or porridge made from rice and water or broth. It's a staple dish in many Asian countries, particularly China, where it's known as "zhou" or "xi fan," and it's also popular in Japan, Korea, and Thailand. Congee can be enjoyed plain or with toppings such as meats, vegetables, eggs, fried shallots, soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh herbs. Congee is often served as a comforting breakfast dish, especially during cold weather or monsoon.
3. Moussaka
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Moussaka is a traditional dish from the Mediterranean region, particularly popular in Greece. It is a layered casserole dish typically made with eggplant, minced meat, tomatoes, onions, and a creamy béchamel sauce. It's seasoned with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, giving it a rich and savoury flavour profile.
4. French Onion Soup
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Best enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread, French onion soup is a hearty dish made with caramelised onions simmered in a rich beef broth, topped with melted cheese. It's known for its savory-sweet flavour and comforting, warming qualities. The combination of sweet, savoury, and cheesy flavours creates a satisfying and luxurious experience, making French onion soup a classic comforting dish.
Also Read: 8 Rice-Based Comfort Foods Of India You Should Try At Least Once
5. Poutine
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Poutine is often called Canada's unofficial national dish. It consists of crispy French fries topped with fresh cheese curds, which are then drowned in a rich, flavorful gravy. The heat from the fries and gravy melts the cheese curds, creating a deliciously gooey and savoury treat. Poutine can be enjoyed with added toppings like pulled pork, bacon, or mushrooms, making it a popular comfort food across Canada.
6. Spaghetti alla Carbonara
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Originally from the Lazio region around Rome, spaghetti alla carbonara is a creamy mix of pancetta, velvety olive oil, fatty egg yolk, and cheese. It is known for its simplicity and rich flavours. It traditionally consists of spaghetti pasta tossed with a creamy sauce made from eggs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, pancetta, and freshly ground black pepper. The sauce is created by mixing raw eggs with grated cheese to form a velvety coating for the hot pasta, which gently cooks the eggs as it combines with the heat from the cooked pasta and rendered pancetta or guanciale fat. The result is a silky, savoury dish with a perfect balance of salty, creamy, and peppery flavours, perfect for rainy days.
Also Read: We Asked You For Your Favourite Comfort Food; 11 Drool-Worthy Responses Inside
7. Matzo Ball Soup
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Matzo ball soup is a traditional Jewish dish. It features light and fluffy matzo balls, made from ground matzo crackers and eggs. These matzo balls are simmered in a clear chicken broth along with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Matzo ball soup is popular for its simplicity, warmth, and cultural significance, making it a staple in Jewish cuisine and a favourite comfort food for many.
Happy Eating!