Healthy Fall Comfort Food for the Entire Family

Many comfort foods have a bad reputation for being unhealthy. Some say it’s the fact that at times, comfort food is closely linked to emotional eating. People often seek out comfort foods in times of stress, sadness or the “blues” that come on as the seasons change. These unhealthy options can really hijack our diets, lead to weight gain, which in turn leads to more stress. It’s a vicious cycle, but it doesn’t have to be. Just take a look at this article from Today’s website to find out more.

When the temperatures start dropping, right along with the leaves, you know fall is right around the corner. It’s a time of year that many people look forward to, for a variety of reasons. It’s the perfect time for bonfires and hoodies, we can pull out those snuggly comforters and pillows for the bed and the best holidays of the year are right around the corner.

But there’s another plus to the brisk fall weather that some people wait for with just as much expectation. That’s the amazing comfort food that makes fall such a special time of year. When that comfort food is also healthy and good for you, it’s an added bonus that doubles the excitement. So today, we’ve put together some of the most amazing fall comfort foods, treats and beverages that you can enjoy as the weather gives way to nostalgic kitchen moments of years gone by.

Chili, for Chilly Weather

One of the first dishes that comes to mind for fall comfort food is the ever-popular, steaming pot of homemade chili. It warms the bones and the heart at the same time and few people turn it down. This recipe from Delish offers an amazing healthy version of this dish. The meat is left out, but you’ll never miss it! Instead, this recipe is chock full of veggies, beans and LOADS of flavor. When topped with a dab of low fat sour cream and cilantro, it may become your new favorite.

Most Popular comfort food: From-Scratch Chicken Noodle Soup

The incredibly popular “old wive’s tale” says that chicken noodle soup is an absolute cure-all for colds and that seasonal funk that sometimes overtakes us as the seasons change. There’s actually a science behind that, but we’re more concerned with how good this recipe is for the soul. In this recipe from Foodie Crush, you’ll find an array of amazing, tasty veggies cooked up in a savory chicken stock. The recipe also gives some great “add-in” ideas that can make it even healthier!

Perhaps the Healthiest Enchiladas

If you’re a fan of Mexican comfort food, you’re definitely going to want to check out the Veggie Black Bean Enchiladas recipe over at Cookie + Kate. It’s meatless, but filled with so much flavor, you surely won’t miss it. From the red onions and broccoli to the black beans and homemade enchilada sauce, you’ll soon find yourself in flavor heaven. Using whole wheat tortillas makes the dish even healthier, adding a serving of grains to your daily intake.

Apple Confit

What would fall be without an amazing dessert dish featuring apples? Well we have a healthy Apple Confit from the Eating Well website that just couldn’t be any easier. With only four ingredients, and prepared in a slow cooker, it’s almost like doing nothing and still getting the benefit of a tasty, healthy dessert. Once it comes out, top it with your favorite low-fat ice cream and a dash of toasted nuts and you’ll have the perfect ending to any day.

Wait…Wassail?

If you’ve never heard of Wassail, you’re certainly not alone. However, that’s no reason for you to miss out on this spiced taste bud extravaganza. Dating back to ancient England, Wassail is made using apples, sugars, spices and cider. It’s an excellent way to take the edge off a rough day and this recipe from Lavender and Lovage is a great one to use to make your own.