Four recipes to bring comfort on under-the-weather days

As summer sunshine fades into the cozy embrace of fall, we're greeted by new flavors, festive activities and holidays to look forward to. But, with all this autumnal joy comes an unwelcome guest: sickness. 

If you've noticed the sniffles and coughs spreading around campus, you're not alone. For those of you who’ve unfortunately caught the “Hopkins bug,” these comforting recipes are just what you need to feel better and regain your strength. And, for those lucky enough to avoid it, these dishes are a perfect way to show a little extra love and care to those around you.

Golden Milk 

A warm, soothing hug in a mug, this is a classic remedy beloved by many brown moms! “Golden” milk gets its bright color from turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The warmth of the milk helps soothe a sore throat, while the turmeric works wonders on congestion. You can make it with any milk you prefer and customize the spices to suit your taste — I personally love mine with cinnamon and whole milk for an extra touch of comfort.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk (dairy or dairy-free)
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• Optional: Honey, cardamom, vanilla extract, cinnamon, pepper

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a saucepan and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Pour into a mug, and sip slowly!

Creamy Porridge 

This hearty porridge has been my go-to since childhood, thanks to my favorite fairy tale, “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” When I’m feeling under the weather, nothing beats a creamy, comforting bowl of oatmeal. Packed with fiber and minerals, this simple recipe is a nourishing way to feel healthy again. Plus, you can get creative with the toppings!

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup rolled oats 
• 3 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional toppings: cinnamon, honey or maple syrup, flax seeds, chia seeds, nuts, nut butter, jam, fruits

Instructions:

1. Bring oats, milk and salt to a simmer in a saucepan, and cook for 15 minutes until the liquid thickens (be careful not to let it bubble over).
2. Remove saucepan from heat and leave the porridge to cool in a bowl.
3. Add toppings, and enjoy!

Roasted Potatoes 

There’s something about roasted potatoes that just feels like a warm hug. They’re easy on the stomach, full of nutrients and some studies suggest they can even boost your immune system. For me, this recipe is extra special; it’s the one my boyfriend’s mom makes when I visit. I hope it brings you the same comfort it brings me.

Ingredients:

• Your favorite potatoes (I personally like Yukon gold potatoes!)
• 2 tbsp (or enough to coat the potatoes) olive oil 
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Wash and dry potatoes (make sure they’re completely dry!).
3. Cut potatoes into desired pieces.
4. In a bowl, mix potatoes, olive oil and spices.
5. Place potatoes into a pan.
6. Roast potatoes for 20 minutes.
7. Increase the temperature to 425°F, and roast for 15 more minutes (or until tender).
8. Take out, cool and enjoy!

Vegan Quinoa Soup

After an exhausting hike to Machu Picchu, I had the best “sopa de quinoa” at a cozy, little restaurant in Cusco. Ever since, I’ve been trying to recreate that strength-giving, heartwarming dish. While I’m still working on perfection, this vegan quinoa soup is delicious and packed with nourishing veggies and grains to help you recover. Plus, it’s totally customizable, so feel free to make it your own by omitting or adding any vegetable or grain listed.

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp olive oil 
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery sticks, chopped 
• 1 zucchini, chopped 
• 1 cup kale, chopped 
• 1 can Great Northern beans
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp thyme 
• 28-ounce can diced tomatoes 
• 1 cup quinoa 
• 4 cups vegetable broth 
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp salt 
• 1 tsp pepper 
• 1 tsp lemon juice 

Instructions:

1. Warm oil in a saucepan.
2. Add and stir chopped vegetables (excluding kale), garlic, thyme, salt and pepper to the saucepan for six to eight minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, and cook for five minutes.
4. Add quinoa, vegetable broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, partially cover the pot, and reduce heat to maintain a simmer for 25 minutes.
6. Add beans and kale, and cook for five minutes.
7. Remove saucepan from heat, and add lemon juice.
8. Serve and enjoy!

Dumpling Ramen Soup

Last but not least, my absolute favorite! This ramen dish is packed with rich flavors and warm memories, reminiscent of countless nights spent sharing hot pot and laughter with friends. It’s simple to make but brimming with comforting ingredients, perfect for warding off the cold or any seasonal bug.

Ingredients: 

• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3/4 cup kimchi
• 3 cups vegetable broth 
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 3 shiitake mushrooms, chopped
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp miso paste 
• 1 tsp gochujang 
• 1 tsp salt 
• 1 dry instant ramen packet 
• 5 dumplings (homemade or frozen — my favorite are the shrimp gyoza from Trader Joes)
• Optional: bok choy, green onion, enoki mushrooms

Instructions:

1. Add sesame oil to a saucepan, and sauté kimchi for two minutes.
2. Bring vegetable broth, garlic, mushrooms, soy sauce, miso paste, gochujang and salt to a boil for five minutes.
3. Add mushrooms, vegetables and dumplings, and cook for five more minutes.
4. Add noodles and cook for two to three minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat. Serve, garnish and enjoy!

These recipes are more than just food; they’re gestures of care, passed down from my loved ones to me and now to you! I hope these dishes bring you comfort when you're feeling a little under the weather. Happy cooking and feel better soon!