Living abroad has given me an amazing opportunity to try some super tasty food. I have traveled to 2 continents and 5+ countries over the course of two years trying some of the most delicious cuisines offered, including a variety of Mediterranean food, Moroccan, German, and traditional British. Just the thought of the different pieces of bread, spices, jams, fish, and meats I have tried makes my mouth water. But does all of it stand a chance against traditional comfort foods? I wanted to explore some possibilities.
Comfort food
Is food that provides us relief or an instant feeling of well-being. It is normally high in carbohydrates or sugars with an association with home life. A few examples around the world include:
Spain- Tortilla de patata, lentejas
Germany- Jägerschnitzel
USA- Macaroni and Cheese, Apple pie, cakes
Britain- Shepherds pie, Bangers and Mash
For those people like myself who identify with two types of home lives, living abroad can be challenging. As much as I love a cheesy yellow American grilled cheese sandwich or cupcake like the rest of us (USA) I absolutely go mad for croquetas caseras. I have learned over the last few years that anytime I see this while I am out I am instantly drawn to it.
Do we adapt to different comfort foods?
Comfort food doesn’t exactly have to mean a traditional dish your mother or grandmother has made all of your life since you were a child or a snack you frequently eat when you aren’t feeling the best. Nor does it have to be something of your own culture or country. I think we adapt to different comforts the more we are exposed to other types of cuisines and cultures.
