Comfort Foods That Heal: Top Favorites

Daily writing prompt

What are your favorite types of foods?

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For me, I always find myself coming back to comfort foods. Soups, stews, meat with mashed potatoes, and seasonal veggies (especially roasted or grilled) — those are the dishes that feel like home. They’re what I crave when life feels heavy or when I simply want to slow down and sink into something cozy and warm.

And yes, please give me all the carbs. Pasta, especially. Nothing beats homemade spaghetti and meatballs — a family favorite of ours. The smell of the sauce simmering, the sound of meatballs sizzling in the pan — it’s pure nostalgia. Pizza also ranks high on my list. There’s nothing like a slice of gooey, cheesy deliciousness. And cheeseburgers? Don’t even get me started. Bread, meat, cheese, veggies — everything I want all in one. Simple, yes, but happiness on a plate.

Lately, though, soups have been stealing the spotlight for me. Growing up, I only really had chicken noodle or tomato, but as I’ve gotten older, my taste buds have expanded. Now, I practically love every soup I try. One of my favorites — one that always brings me extra comfort — is Chicken Tortilla Soup.

The first time I tried it was at my friend’s house, when his dad was cooking it from scratch. The whole kitchen smelled incredible — smoky spices, roasted tomatoes, and a rich broth bubbling away. When I sat down with a steaming bowl, topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese, it was one of the best meals I’ve ever had.

These dishes may not always be the fanciest or the lightest, but they’re the ones that heal, restore, and remind me that I’m cared for.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a warm, zesty, and comforting dish made with tender chicken, beans, corn, and a flavorful tomato-based broth — topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese for the perfect balance of comfort and spice

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Course: Soup

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 jalapeño seeded and chopped (optional for spice)
• 1 14oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 15oz can black beans drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lime cut into wedges

Toppings

• crispy tortilla strips
• diced avocado
• shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• fresh cilantro
• sour cream

Method

 

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
2. Stir in tomatoes, broth, beans, corn, chicken, and spices. Let simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add a squeeze of lime just before serving.
4. Ladle into bowls and top generously with your favorite toppings.

Notes

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