During the cold months, we tend to crave certain foods. These comfort foods are generally higher in carbohydrates and, to some degree, fat. When spring approaches, we often still feel the need for these comfort foods but, at the same time, we want to make a change to our diets. Comfort foods need not be high in fat and carbs. There are plenty of delicious options from which to choose.
Delicious fried rice
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 Tbsp oil
  • 6 ounces sliced ham
  • 1 pound pineapple
  • 1 red pepper
  • 1 red onion
  • 1 jalapeno
  • 1 piece ginger (fresh)
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges

Instructions:

  • Cook the rice as per the instructions on the package
  • Heat the oil in a pan and cook the ham over medium heat. Add the pineapple and cook until it starts to brown.
  • Add the red pepper and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Add the onion and cook for another 3 minutes.
  • Now add the ginger, jalapeno, and garlic. Cook until tender – approximately 2 or 3 more minutes.
  • Add the cooked rice to the ham and vegetables. Toss around to combine.
  • Serve with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.

Spring chicken stew
Ingredients:

  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 2 Tbsp flour
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • 4 carrots
  • 2 celery stalks
  • 1 onion
  • 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken
  • 8 ounces egg noodles
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbsp fresh tarragon
  • 1 cup frozen peas

Instructions:

  • Whisk together the wine, flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, and ½ cup of water in a slow cooker.
  • Add the celery, carrots, onion, and chicken. Cook covered until the chicken is tender and easy to pull apart.
  • Cook the noodles according to the package instructions and set ¼ cup of the cooking liquid aside before draining them.
  • Return the noodles to the pot, add oil, mustard, ¼ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and 2 tablespoons of the liquid you set aside. If the pasta seems dry, add some more water.
  • Now add the tarragon to the pasta.
  • Gently fold the peas into the pot with the stew and cook for another two minutes.
  • Serve the stew over the noodles and, garnish with extra tarragon if desired.

Rice and pasta are both excellent comfort foods. Paired with the right spring ingredients and you don’t have to worry about these dishes getting too rich and heavy.