Comfort Foods and Personal Favorites: A Journey Through Home Cooked Delights

For many of us, a favorite homemade comfort snack or food can evoke happy memories and bring a sense of comfort and joy. In my case, it's all about the rich flavors and satisfying textures that come from a plate or a bowl. This article dives into some of my tried and true comfort foods, from a hearty potato soup to a classic bacon sandwich to a deliciously simple stove-popped popcorn. Let's explore these beloved dishes and the stories behind them.

1. Bacon Sandwich: A Winter Favorite

Bacon has been a staple in my diet for as long as I can remember. In college, I would eat it by the plate-full, and as a cross country runner, I could consume it without concern for gaining weight. Today, at 46, that love for bacon remains, and my go-to comfort food is bacon sandwiches. For those who appreciate a perfect balance, what could be better than not-too-crispy bacon on whole wheat toast?

There’s something incredibly comforting about coming inside after a long day and making myself a sandwich with a pound of bacon and several slices of toast. Last weekend, I had such a day. After cutting, splitting, and hauling firewood, I returned inside to make supper. I cooked up a pound of bacon to create the perfect crunch, followed by a few slices of toast for a perfect texture. I finished it off with a satisfying solitude, relishing every bite.

2. Potato Soup: A Match Made in Heaven

When it comes to potato soup, my family and I have our own unique secrets. My daughter-in-law, for instance, finds this particular variation a bit too indulgent. But for me, it’s a revelation of all the comfort I hold dear. This soup is made with a simple but rich blend of ingredients: 1/2 cup of potato flakes, grated cheese, boiling water, an entire can of evaporated milk, and a generous mix of seasonings including black pepper, bacon pepper, onion powder, and a hint of ranch dressing.

I follow this recipe as closely as possible, because the balance of flavors is spot-on. The creamy texture from the evaporated milk, combined with the comforting potato flakes, make for a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. While others may not share my enthusiasm, the joy of such a meal is in the personal enjoyment and the memories it brings.

3. Stove-Popped Popcorn: A Movie Night Classic

Popcorn is another lifelong favorite of mine, particularly when I grew up with my mother's expertly made version. She would tuck us into the living room with a big Dutch oven pot, some popcorn kernels, and her choice of movie to watch. Her process is meticulous: she chooses a particular brand of kernels, likely yellow corn due to her preference for a light, fluffy texture. She covers the bottom of the pot with 1-2 tablespoons of oil and adds just enough kernels to cover the bottom. Then, she turns the heat to med-high to high, allowing the popping to begin.

Once the popping starts, she periodically picks up the pot, shakes it for a second, and places it back on the heat. This prevents burning and ensures a consistently popping result. When the popping slows, the pot is removed from the heat and the kernels are poured into a huge bowl. Any unused kernels can be discarded or saved for another time.

The next step is to toss in a few tablespoons of diced butter and let it melt, adding it evenly over the popcorn. Salt to taste, sprinkle with 1-2 teaspoons, and serve the popcorn while it's still warm. It’s that simple, yet so satisfying!

4. Americanized Mexican Food: A Taste for Salt and Flavor

For an actual meal, my taste buds often run towards Americanized Mexican cuisine. I find the combination of flavors and textures to be simply divine, especially when it comes to hardshell tacos and nachos. The smokiness of the hardshell tacos, combined with the creamy texture of the cheese and toppings is a match made in heaven. And don’t forget the nachos! The crispy tortilla chips, layered with cheese, salsa, and other toppings, create a delightful symphony of flavors.

I love the way these dishes bring people together, creating a sense of community and celebration. Whether it's a movie night with family, a casual gathering with friends, or a simple evening at home, these comfort foods are the perfect companions.

These are just a few of the comfort foods that hold a special place in my heart. Each one brings joy, nostalgia, and the promise of a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy snack, a full meal, or simply a moment of relaxation, these dishes can undoubtedly bring a smile to your face.

Conclusion

Comfort foods are more than just sustenance; they are a part of our life story, a way to connect with our past, and a promise of warmth and happiness in the present. Whether you're enjoying a bacon sandwich, a bowl of warm potato soup, a handful of stove-popped popcorn, or a plate of Americanized Mexican food, take a moment to appreciate the simple pleasures that these dishes bring to your life. They are more than just food; they are a celebration of the joys of home cooking and the comfort of familiar flavors.