If you’ve ever found solace in the warm embrace of a hearty meal, then you’re no stranger to the magic of comfort food. These dishes have a unique ability to not only fill your stomach but also soothe your soul. Whether you’re seeking to unwind after a long day or searching for that familiar taste of home, comfort food recipes are the answer. Dinner ideas come alive with the promise of rich, flavorful creations that can turn any evening into a culinary adventure.
But comfort food isn’t just about indulgence; it can also be healthy. Discover healthy recipes that strike a perfect balance between nourishment and comfort, offering guilt-free alternatives to your favorite dishes.
And let’s not forget about lunch ideas that provide a midday pick-me-up. Dive into sandwiches, soups, and salads that bring comfort to your lunch hour, making it a delightful part of your day. So, whether you’re seeking dinner recipes to warm your heart, healthy options to nourish your body, our comfort food collection has something for everyone. It’s time to indulge, savor, and find solace in the joy of cooking and eating.
◆ Discuss the benefits of comfort food recipes–
1. Emotional Comfort: Comfort food has the power to uplift your mood and provide emotional solace during stressful times.
2. Stress Reduction: Eating comfort food can trigger the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain, reducing stress and anxiety.
3. Nostalgia: These recipes often remind us of cherished memories and can create a sense of nostalgia, promoting feelings of happiness and security.
4. Increased Serotonin Levels: Many comfort foods contain ingredients that boost serotonin levels, enhancing feelings of well-being and relaxation.
5. Improved Mental Health: Regularly enjoying comfort food can have a positive impact on mental health, promoting a sense of comfort and contentment.
6. Bonding and Social Connection: Sharing comfort food with loved ones fosters a sense of togetherness and strengthens social bonds.
7. Enhanced Satisfaction: The rich, indulgent nature of comfort food can lead to a greater sense of satisfaction, reducing the urge to overeat.
8. Versatility: Comfort food recipes can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and restrictions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their benefits.
◆ What Makes a Dish a Comfort Food Recipe?
Comfort food recipes are often associated with a sense of nostalgia and emotional satisfaction. These dishes typically feature familiar flavors and ingredients that evoke warm memories and feelings of contentment. While the definition of comfort food can vary from person to person, there are common characteristics that make a dish qualify as comfort food.
A key aspect is the emotional connection. Comfort food is something that brings comfort, soothes, or provides solace during times of stress or emotional need.
◆ Are Comfort Food Recipes Always Unhealthy?
While many classic comfort food recipes may be indulgent and calorie-rich, they don’t have to be unhealthy. It’s a common misconception that comfort food is synonymous with unhealthy eating. In fact, there are several ways to make comfort food recipes more nutritious and balanced.
Portion control is another strategy. Enjoying comfort food in moderation allows you to savor the flavors without overindulging. Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance between the comforting qualities of the dish and its nutritional content. With some creative adjustments, you can enjoy the emotional satisfaction of comfort food without compromising your health.
◆ Can Comfort Food Recipes Be Adapted to Dietary Restrictions?
Yes, comfort food recipes can absolutely be adapted to accommodate various dietary restrictions and preferences.
For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can replace animal-based ingredients with plant-based alternatives. For example, you can use tofu or tempeh in place of meat in dishes like stir-fries or chili.
If you have gluten sensitivity or are on a gluten-free diet, you can find gluten-free versions of many comfort food staples, such as gluten-free pasta for mac ‘n’ cheese or flour alternatives for thickening gravies and sauces.
People with lactose intolerance can explore dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or lactose-free dairy products when making creamy comfort food recipes.
21. Garlic Chicken
This delicious garlic chicken recipe is one of my favorite comfort food recipes. My mother made this recipe for me for the first time at home. I can never make it like my mother, but I am trying to do it well. I love to cook, I love to make different new recipes or experiment. The best part of this recipe is the combination of chicken and garlic, their pairing will take you to a different world of flavors.
Another important thing is the gourmet sauce. Ugh! It’s really amazing. Tender chicken breast, the aroma and taste of garlic and the combination of the sauce with it. The combination of all the ingredients creates different magic in this recipe.
If you are trying to lose weight then this can be the perfect lunch or dinner for you. It takes 58 minutes to make. There are very few healthy recipes that are so easy and quick to make.
What are you thinking! Talk about gourmet flavor! Making this sauce is not difficult at all, but rather simple and interesting. Combine ingredients like butter, garlic, flour, soy sauce, parmesan cheese etc. to make the sauce. I got my favorite meal and you!
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Must try ground beef recipes & ground pork recipes for dinner!
20. Crack Chicken Casserole
Crack Chicken Casserole boasts an irresistible flavor profile, making it a standout choice among dinner ideas. With its melding of savory, creamy, and zesty notes, this dish tantalizes taste buds with each bite. The chicken, seasoned to perfection, brings a delightful succulence to the ensemble.
Complementing it are the smoky undertones of crispy bacon, adding a satisfying crunch to the overall texture. The creaminess of cream cheese and sour cream introduces a velvety richness, harmonizing beautifully with the sharp tang of ranch seasoning. Also try vegetarian wraps & chicken wraps for meal prep.
A sprinkling of cheddar cheese on top, when baked to a golden-brown perfection, forms a delectable crust, enhancing both taste and visual appeal. The subtle heat of jalapeños adds a pleasant kick, elevating the dish to a memorable culinary experience.
This casserole, a true masterpiece among dinner ideas, creates a symphony of flavors that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your palate. In essence, it’s a savory sensation, perfect for any dinner occasion, and sure to become a recurring favorite on your dining table.
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Also you can try chicken casserole recipes for lunch!
19. Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Pot Pie
Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Pot Pie offers a delectable blend of flavors, making it a stellar choice among dinner recipes. The savory essence of tender chicken melds seamlessly with the sharp, creamy notes of cheddar cheese and the earthy richness of broccoli.
Each mouthful is a harmonious combination of textures, with flaky pastry encasing the velvety filling, providing a satisfying contrast. The sauce, infused with cheese, coats the ingredients in a luscious embrace, while a hint of nutmeg adds a subtle, intriguing depth of flavor. The aroma that wafts from the oven as it bakes is a tantalizing preview of the culinary delight awaiting you.
This pot pie is a comfort food classic, elevated to gourmet heights. It’s an indulgent and filling dish that embodies the essence of hearty dinner recipes, perfect for warming both heart and soul.
Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy evening at home or serving it to guests, the Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Pot Pie promises a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of comfort and sophistication in every bite.
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18. French Onion Beef Casserole
If you’re seeking healthy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor, consider French Onion Beef Casserole. This dish offers a satisfying blend of tastes and textures. The tender beef, bathed in a savory French onion sauce, imparts a rich, umami essence that’s both comforting and indulgent.
As you take each forkful, the creamy, slightly sweet notes of caramelized onions mingle harmoniously with the hearty beef, creating a delightful taste symphony. The crown of the casserole, a layer of golden, gooey cheese, adds a luxurious melt-in-your-mouth experience.
This casserole proves that healthy recipes can still be hearty and delicious. It’s a balanced, nutrient-packed meal that satisfies cravings while keeping your well-being in mind. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, it’s a wholesome option for dinner.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. French Onion Beef Casserole demonstrates that healthy eating can be a flavorful, enjoyable journey, and it’s a delightful addition to any meal repertoire for those who seek a harmonious blend of taste and nutrition.
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17. French Chicken Casserole
The French Chicken Casserole, a delightful option among lunch ideas, offers a tantalizing medley of flavors. Tender chicken, bathed in a velvety sauce infused with aromatic herbs and white wine, delivers a sophisticated and comforting taste profile.
As each bite combines succulent poultry with a fragrant, savory sauce, it becomes a delectable harmony. The addition of mushrooms and pearl onions introduces a delightful earthiness to the ensemble, while the crown of the casserole – a layer of crispy, golden-brown pastry – adds a satisfying crunch.
This casserole showcases how a simple yet masterful combination of ingredients can elevate lunch ideas. It strikes a balance between elegance and ease, making it an ideal choice for midday meals.
The French Chicken Casserole is a hearty, wholesome option, packed with protein and wholesome flavors, making it a nutritious choice that excites the taste buds. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy lunch at home or a gathering with friends, this dish promises to be a memorable culinary experience.
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Check out these freezer meals & mason jar meals for meal prep.
16. One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
The ONE POT CHILI MAC AND CHEESE is a comforting revelation among comfort food recipes. This dish harmoniously marries the heartiness of chili with the creaminess of mac and cheese, creating a taste sensation that’s both comforting and indulgent.
With every spoonful, you’ll experience the robust flavors of ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, infused with chili spices, delivering a satisfying, slightly spicy kick. The tender macaroni, enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, adds a comforting, creamy contrast. The beauty of this one-pot wonder is its simplicity – it’s a quick and convenient meal without sacrificing flavor.
This ONE POT CHILI MAC AND CHEESE redefines the notion of comfort food recipes. It’s a balanced, nourishing dish that warms the soul while pleasing the palate. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it offers both satiety and satisfaction.
Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a bowl of cozy goodness, this dish exemplifies how easy and delicious home-cooked comfort food can be. It invites you to savor the taste of classic chili and creamy mac and cheese in one delightful fusion, making it a standout in the world of comfort cuisine.
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15. Lasagna Soup
If you’re seeking captivating dinner ideas, consider Lasagna Soup. This delightful creation takes all the flavors of traditional lasagna and transforms them into a heartwarming soup. Each spoonful offers a symphony of tastes. The richness of ground beef and Italian sausage harmonizes with the tangy tomato broth, creating a savory base that’s nothing short of inviting.
As you delve further, you’ll encounter tender pasta, soaking up the flavors like a sponge, and the generous layers of melted mozzarella and creamy ricotta that provide a luxurious, cheesy finish. The aromatic blend of basil, oregano, and garlic adds a delightful herbal essence that elevates every bite.
Lasagna Soup is a testament to the notion that dinner ideas can be both comforting and innovative. It’s a hearty, filling meal that captures the essence of a classic Italian dish in a cozy soup form. This creation doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it leaves you craving more.
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Must try instant pot pasta recipes & low carb soup recipes for healthy lunch!
14. Easy Chicken Tetrazzini
The Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a culinary marvel, a testament to the fusion of taste and simplicity. It offers a symphony of flavors where succulent chicken mingles with tender pasta, while a creamy mushroom and Parmesan sauce envelops every bite. This velvety sauce possesses a richness that’s both comforting and sophisticated, with hints of nutmeg and black pepper adding layers of complexity.
The medley of sautéed mushrooms, shallots, and garlic introduces an earthy depth, enhancing the overall taste. The crown jewel of this dish is the crispy golden breadcrumb topping, which adds a delightful crunch, elevating the textural experience.
This Chicken Tetrazzini is a prime example of how elegance can be achieved with ease. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that effortlessly graces your dinner table. Packed with protein, calcium, and umami goodness, it’s not only delicious but also a nutritious choice.
Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or hosting guests, Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. It embodies the essence of comfort and gourmet flair in a single dish, showcasing that extraordinary flavor doesn’t have to be complicated, making it an essential addition to your culinary repertoire.
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13. Creamy Chicken Stroganoff
The Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is a culinary masterpiece, a symphony of flavors that captivates the palate. It seamlessly combines tender chicken with a luscious, velvety sauce that exudes both comfort and sophistication. This sauce, enriched with sour cream and a medley of aromatic herbs, offers a harmonious balance of creaminess and tanginess.
As you savor each bite, you’ll encounter the tender chicken, perfectly seared to enhance its succulence, and the al dente egg noodles, which serve as a satisfying canvas for this delectable creation. The sautéed mushrooms and onions bring an earthy depth, while a touch of Dijon mustard adds a subtle, intriguing zest.
Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is a testament to the idea that culinary excellence can be achieved with simplicity. It’s a hearty, filling dish that graces your dinner table with ease.
Bursting with protein, vitamins, and umami goodness, it not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body. Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is a must-have in your culinary repertoire, offering a taste experience that’s both comforting and unforgettable.
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Wanna try diced chicken recipes & boiled chicken recipes for holiday night?
12. Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
The Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is a culinary delight, a symphony of flavors that enchants the taste buds. This dish seamlessly marries the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the savory richness of Italian sausage.
As you savor each bite, the creamy sauce, infused with aromatic herbs, offers a velvety embrace to the al dente pasta, creating a delightful texture contrast. The addition of fresh spinach adds a vibrant touch, bringing a hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness of the squash.
This pasta creation stands as a testament to the idea that gourmet taste can be attained with ease. It’s a hearty, filling dish that graces your dinner table effortlessly. Abundant in protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients, it not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body.
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11. White Chicken Skillet Lasagna
The White Chicken Skillet Lasagna is a comforting revelation among comfort food recipes. It seamlessly combines tender chicken, creamy béchamel sauce, and al dente lasagna noodles to create a luxurious taste experience. As each forkful delivers a blend of flavors, the savory notes of sautéed garlic and onions harmonize with the richness of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
The hint of nutmeg in the béchamel sauce adds an intriguing depth to the dish, elevating its complexity. Spinach, wilted to perfection, introduces a fresh, earthy dimension to this already harmonious ensemble.
This skillet lasagna redefines the essence of comfort food recipes. It is a testament to the notion that culinary excellence can be attained with simplicity. It’s a hearty, nourishing meal that graces your dinner table effortlessly. This dish never fails to impress.
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Check out stuffed squash recipes & spaghetti squash recipes for fall!
10. Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen
If you’re seeking a unique culinary adventure, consider Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen. This dish effortlessly blends tender, marinated chicken with the comforting embrace of ramen noodles, creating a taste experience that’s both invigorating and satisfying. As you indulge, the ginger glaze lends a sweet and subtly spicy note, elevating the overall flavor profile.
The broth, a delicate dance of savory and aromatic elements, envelops the noodles, infusing them with a depth that’s as captivating as it is comforting. Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen is a testament to the versatility of modern cuisine. It’s a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures that transcends traditional boundaries.
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9. Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Sauce
The delectable world of dinner recipes with Swedish Meatballs and their lusciously creamy sauce. These savory orbs boast a rich, nuanced flavor profile that dances on your taste buds. The meatballs are tender, gently seasoned, and enhanced with a hint of allspice, lending them an exquisite, unique taste.
They’re perfectly complemented by a velvety sauce that exudes a creamy, velvety smoothness. This sauce tantalizes your palate with its balanced blend of flavors, striking a harmonious chord between savory and creamy.
The dish’s overall taste is nothing short of sensational. Each bite is a symphony of textures and tastes, making it an irresistible dinner option. The meatballs’ succulence combines seamlessly with the indulgent creaminess of the sauce, creating a harmonious marriage of flavors. The creamy sauce adds a luxurious touch, elevating this dish to a culinary masterpiece that will leave your taste buds in awe.
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8. Easy & Creamy Crack Chicken Soup Recipe
The Easy & Creamy Crack Chicken Soup Recipe offers a delightful taste experience. This soup exudes an enticing blend of flavors that captivate your senses. The creaminess of the broth adds a luxurious touch, while the savory crack chicken imparts a bold and robust taste. The soup’s overall flavor profile is a harmonious symphony of textures and tastes that makes it an irresistible choice for a meal.
The richness of the creamy base perfectly complements the savory essence of the crack chicken, creating a delicious fusion that lingers on your palate. Each spoonful provides a comforting, hearty, and satisfying taste, making it a delightful addition to your dining table. This recipe is a testament to the wonders of simplicity and the power of flavor.
It promises a mouthwatering experience that will have you savoring every spoonful. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, this Easy & Creamy Crack Chicken Soup Recipe is a must-try.
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7. Spinach Artichoke Chicken
The Spinach Artichoke Chicken is a revelation in comfort food recipes. It delivers a truly comforting and scrumptious flavor experience. This dish combines the tender juiciness of chicken with the creamy richness of spinach and artichoke, resulting in a divine blend of flavors. The taste is an inviting medley of savory and creamy, creating a warm and satisfying sensation in every bite.
The creamy spinach and artichoke sauce envelops the chicken, imparting a luscious texture and a delectable taste. It’s an inviting dish that exudes coziness and culinary charm. This recipe is a testament to the magic that simplicity can bring to your dining table. Each mouthful provides a comforting, hearty, and gratifying taste, making it the perfect addition to your repertoire of comfort food recipes.
Whether you seek solace in familiar flavors or crave a new culinary adventure, Spinach Artichoke Chicken will never disappoint. It offers both the ease of preparation and the joy of relishing a delightful, heartwarming meal that embodies the essence of comfort food at its finest.
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Must try slow cooker high protein recipes & slow cooker chicken recipes for meal prep.
6. Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup
If you’re in search of dinner ideas that pack a punch of flavor, look no further than Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup. This soup is an explosion of taste. It combines the vibrant and aromatic Thai red curry paste with the soothing comfort of noodles.
The result is a delightful fusion of flavors that tantalize your taste buds with each spoonful. The broth is a harmonious balance of spicy and creamy, while the noodles provide a satisfying, slurp-worthy texture.
The Thai red curry paste infuses the soup with a bold and exotic essence, creating a culinary adventure in a bowl. The taste is a journey through layers of complexity, delivering a memorable dining experience.
This Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup is the perfect addition to your repertoire of dinner ideas. It offers a delightful combination of ease and taste, making it suitable for both quick weeknight meals and special occasions. Whether you’re a Thai cuisine enthusiast or simply seeking a new culinary adventure, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings for bold, exotic flavors.
So, if you’re wondering what to prepare for dinner, consider this Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup, and treat yourself to a taste sensation that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Thailand.
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5. Thai Chicken Coconut Curry
The Thai Chicken Coconut Curry is a masterpiece of taste when contemplating dinner ideas. It’s a flavor sensation that tantalizes your palate. This dish harmoniously blends succulent chicken with the creamy richness of coconut milk, creating an exquisite fusion of flavors. The taste is a delightful medley of savory and creamy, offering a comforting yet adventurous dining experience.
The velvety coconut curry sauce envelops the tender chicken, imparting a luscious texture and a delectable taste that lingers long after each bite. This recipe is a testament to the magic of simplicity and the power of flavor.
The Thai Chicken Coconut Curry is a versatile addition to your roster of dinner ideas. It’s equally suited for weeknight dinners and special occasions, providing both convenience and a burst of delectable tastes in every spoonful.
Whether you’re a Thai cuisine enthusiast or simply seeking a new culinary adventure, this curry promises a memorable meal that embodies the essence of Thai flavors at their finest.
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Must try shredded pork recipes & sheet pan dinner recipes to make at home!
4. Easy and Comforting Ham and Potato Soup
The Easy and Comforting Ham and Potato Soup is a culinary delight among dinner recipes. It delivers a taste that’s both comforting and invigorating. This soup seamlessly combines the smoky richness of ham with the hearty wholesomeness of potatoes, resulting in a symphony of flavors that caress your palate.
The overall taste is a warm and soothing blend of savory and robust, offering a nourishing and heartwarming dining experience. The creamy broth, punctuated with tender chunks of ham and potatoes, creates a texture that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
This Ham and Potato Soup is an excellent addition to your collection of dinner recipes, suitable for both quick weekday meals and cozy gatherings. It exemplifies the magic of simplicity in cooking while delivering a taste that is both familiar and deeply satisfying.
If you’re wondering what to prepare for dinner, consider the Easy and Comforting Ham and Potato Soup, a dish that will wrap you in warmth and flavor with every spoonful.
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3. Hamburger Hash
The Hamburger Hash is a delightful departure in healthy recipes. It offers a taste that’s both satisfying and nourishing. This dish cleverly combines lean ground beef with an abundance of colorful vegetables, creating a flavorful symphony that pleases the palate.
The overall flavor is a harmonious blend of savory and earthy notes, presenting a guilt-free and wholesome dining experience. The medley of tender beef, diced vegetables, and aromatic seasonings produces a texture that’s both hearty and invigorating.
This Hamburger Hash earns its place in your repertoire of healthy recipes, suitable for those seeking balanced and delectable meals. It exemplifies the art of mindful cooking while delivering a taste that satisfies cravings without compromising on nutrition. You’re on a wellness journey or simply exploring wholesome dining options, this dish is a worthy choice.
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Must make chicken tenderloin recipes & cod fish recipes for meal prep dinner!
2. Dairy Free Butter Chicken Recipe
This Dairy Free Butter Chicken recipe is one of the amazing comfort food recipes that will introduce you to the delicious taste. This Dairy Free Butter Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also healthy and full of nutrients. This recipe has many advantages. Those who are allergic to dairy food can enjoy this food with open mind as it is dairy free food.
My father has digestive problems on dairy foods so he can’t eat many tasty foods. But he can surely eat this great tasting dish. This delicious dish is very easy and quick to prepare. I love this recipe because it gives me so many things at once. I am sure you are going to love it.
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1. Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
This light and delicious Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup recipe is my all-time favorite. I am always tempted by this bowl. One bite of this soft, creamy delicious soup will awaken your taste buds. I used to eat this delicious recipe almost everyday during my hostel life. It is hassle free and easy to make. This delicious recipe is made by combining chicken, carrots, cheese tortellini, heavy cream etc. It is topped with Italian seasonings.
I made this recipe for all my friends in my hostel while studying in college. I have some beautiful moments associated with this dish. On the day I cooked it, it was raining heavily, my friends didn’t know what to cook, so I made this soup and served it hot.
Everyone became my super fan that day. Today I also made this soup. To be honest, I miss hostel life and friends very much. I’m sure my friends love it now too. You also organize a party on a rainy day, and gather with friends. This great tasting recipe is a super hit everywhere. ENJOY!
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