When the Florida “winter” finally hits and the damp chill settles in, my appetite for salads and “cold” food completely disappears (Except for iced coffee. I always want that). I want something that warms me up from the inside out, but as a runner, I still need that food to actually do something for me.
These are five of my go-to “real food” comfort meals. They’re hearty, filling, and perfect for refilling the tank after a windy morning run.
Chili
Honestly, any variety chili will do, but it really is the MVP of winter training. Whether you use beef in a standard chili, chicken for a white chicken chili, or sweet potatoes and lentils for a vegetarian version, you’re getting a warm and nutritious meal, with veggies and protein. I’ll top with a little shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt (if that’s your thing), and It’s the perfect “set it and forget it” meal for a busy weeknight. Make it even more fun with mini cornbread muffins, tortilla chips, or even mini cinnammon rolls!
Vegetable-Based Soups
Vegetable soup is basically hydration you can eat. I like to load mine with whatever is in the fridge (carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans) but the secret to making it “fuel” is adding protein like meat, chickpeas, or kidney beans so it actually sticks to your ribs. It’s light enough that it won’t weigh you down, but warm enough to make the “blahs” disappear. Pasta fagioli and Italian pastina soup are both great options.
Noodles
I’m obsessed with noodles, and the viral Tik Tok ramen is one of my favorite comfort meals. Just melt some butter and garlic while cooking ramen noodles (or any kind of noodle). Add in some soy sauce, brown sugar and red pepper flakes or chili crisp. Add your drained noodles to the pan, scramble an egg in the same pan, and top with green onion and everything but the bagel seasoning. Add in shredded chicken for an extra kick of protein, and enjoy with chopsticks. Delicious and cozy!
Shepherd’s Pie
If you need a serious recovery meal after a long run, this is it. I use ground chicken mixed with peas and carrots, in addition to onions and herbs. Stick with the traditional mashed potato topping or switch it up with mashed sweet potatoes. Both are yummy, but you’ll get the anti-inflammatory benefits of the sweet potatoes and a massive hit of Vitamin A, all while eating something that feels incredibly indulgent.
Slow-Cooker Stew
Sometimes you just need to toss something in the crockpot to simmer all day. Beef stew is a great way to get iron, which is crucial for runners (especially if you’re feeling a bit sluggish in the cold). I add chunks of potatoes and carrots, as well as onions and mushrooms, left large so it feels rustic and filling. By the time I’m back from a walk with the pugs, the house smells incredible and dinner is already done.
What are your favorite healthy, comfort meals?
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