(NC) As the cold weather sets in, many people will enjoy hearty comfort foods to help them warm up. And with 35% of Canadians reporting that their eating habits have worsened since being asked to stay at home during covid, having healthier alternatives to seasonal comfort food recipes is sure to be a satisfying way to indulge.
Here are a few simple ways you can feel better about enjoying hearty comfort foods:
Switch ingredients
Substitute refined processed foods with more nutrient-rich ingredients. Look to limit red meat with leaner protein and vegetarian options, while swapping out heavier cream elements with whole or skim milk.
Mix in more veggies
Incorporate in-season fall vegetables into your recipes. Sweet potatoes, butternut squash and pumpkin are rich in fibre and full of flavour for hearty meals. Chilis, soups and stews are all meals where you can add these kinds of veggies and can also be made without meat and dairy if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option. You can also make a leafy green salad.