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.
This is an interesting post!! Who doesn’t love to read about food and have their mouth water. What would you say your comfort food is living abroad compared to living in the United States?
Thanks so much! It´s so interesting how many new comfort foods I have since living abroad. I really would have to go with croquettes! They are my go-to now.