After a bad day, we all need something to soothe us and food has the power to do just that. The right meal at the right time can fill our bellies, take us back to better times and leave us warmed, sated and happy.
And so we have compiled the very best fail-safe comfort foods that do all of that, are easy to make, and of course are fully plant-based.
1. Mac n Cheese
There is little more comforting than a big bowl of mac and cheese on a cold day. The saltiness of the cheese and that deliciously sated feeling that only pasta can bring means this remains the top choice for many people seeking a culinary hug.
There are lots of options out there, but we recommend starting with this vegan mac and cheese recipe.
2. Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie (also known as Shepherdless pie when it contains no meat) is a wholesome, nourishing, filling and inexpensive classic.
It’s easy to replace the meat with lentils or soy mince (or a mix of both) in your favourite recipe, but we really love the two versions that are included in our Celebrity Cookbook, which is free to all Veganuary participants (just register here to receive it).
We also love this red lentil shepherd’s pie recipe from our friends at Tideford Organics.
3. Lasagne
Lasagne is absolutely delicious when made vegan and there are many excellent recipes available.
Some stick close to the original, using meat and cheese replacements, while others go much bigger on the vegetables. This roasted aubergine lasagne is super tasty and – for those truly in need of comfort – we recommend a good hunk of garlic bread to go with it. Double carb for double comfort.
4. Butternut Squash and Chickpea Curry
Warming, fragrant spices create a depth of flavour in this popular butternut squash and chickpea curry that is really hard to beat.
It’s a simple recipe that lends itself to variation, so you can add whatever veg and beans you happen to have in the cupboard. A delicious and nourishing mid-week pick-me-up, made in one pot to reduce washing up.
Plus, it keeps really well, so make a double batch and you won’t have to cook tomorrow.
5. Roast Dinner
There are so many elements to a roast dinner and the magic is in the variety. First, you need a centrepiece and for comfort, we recommend it is wrapped in pastry.
Try this mushroom and chestnut wellington for size! Then you’ll want crispy roast potatoes, maybe some roasted parsnips, pumpkin and / or celeriac and some fresh veggies too.
Roast dinner aficionados will want stuffing balls too, and most of the commercially available mixes are vegan.
6. Bangers and Mash
When the rain is pouring down, when your heart has been broken, when your boss has made you stay late again, there is one dish that can put it all into perspective: our reliable friend in times of need, bangers and mash.
Choose your favourite vegan sausage, mash up your spuds with vegan butter and add your choice of fresh veg and cover with gravy. (Many of the gravy granules in supermarkets are vegan.) We add a dollop of Dijon mustard too.
7. Butternut Squash and Ginger Miso Soup
To be honest, all soup falls into the comfort-food bracket, maybe with the exception of gazpacho. It’s simple to make, warming and nourishing and can be adapted to whatever you have in the fridge, or whatever flavours you crave the most.
But this butternut squash and ginger miso soup is one of our go-to recipe for a winter’s day. The kick of ginger, the umaminess of the miso and the glorious colour of the squash make this an absolute delight.
8. Stew and Dumplings
Never the prettiest dish, nonetheless, a beautiful flavourful veggie stew with dumplings hits all the right spots. There is a cracking recipe in The Official Veganuary Cookbook but if you are looking for one right here, right now, try this Irish vegetable stew.
9. Apple Crumble
Definitely try this apple crumble recipe! The nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger give it a warming-winter vibe while the seeds add crunch (and some pretty fantastic nutrients as an aside).
The addition of berries really adds to the flavour and of course you should serve it warm with vegan vanilla ice cream. Perfection.
10. Sticky Toffee Pudding
Sticky toffee pudding is one of the easiest desserts to veganise, which is great news because it is also one of the most popular desserts in the country.
It is rich, sweet and soft, and truly leaves you in a better mood. Serve it with vegan single cream or whipped cream, or your choice of dairy-free ice cream. This vegan sticky toffee pudding recipe will improve your day 100%.
