Recipes  

7 Tips for Comforting Dishes on a Budget

We all have our essential dishes that require little effort when we feel like being comforted. Here are some easy, inexpensive suggestions that cater to a strong feeling of nostalgia.

1. Bet on Open-Faced Sandwiches

Beyond the peanut butter and jam slice of bread of your childhood, there is a smorgasbord of gourmet open-faced sandwiches to make. Have fun with the fruit you have in the fridge to satisfy a small craving. Accessible recipes for any time of the day.

2. Add Bacon and More Bacon!

Even if the price of a package of bacon is on the rise these days, know that you need only a small quantity of this smoked and salty delicacy to improve grilled cheeses, vinaigrette and even French toast. A single slice of bacon brightens devilled eggs, a classic for aperitif or brunch.

3. Get Inspired by Boxed Mac and Cheese

That notorious mac and cheese, which some people buy in a box with cheese in a packet, remains the ultimate comfort food. We’ve got a version made with a melted cheese spread that reaches the same level of velvetiness as in your memories. Our one-pot and broccoli versions are just as interesting. By making it yourself, you’ll get a larger amount of pasta than with the boxed version, and you can even freeze it!

4. Embrace Gratiné Cheese

When you add cheese to a bowl of soup, it’s the ultimate comfort. Whether you opt for French onion soup with beer, potato soup or even cabbage soup, you can never go wrong. Just put the soup under the broiler for perfectly golden brown, gooey cheese.

5. Enjoy the Perfect Combo of Apple and Cinnamon

Put on that uber comfy chunky-knit sweater to savour two ingredients that are at the top of the comfort food chain: apples and cinnamon. Regardless of the season, Quebec apples are always available, especially when bought in large quantities. Whether you savour them in waffles, doughnuts or crisp while nicely wrapped in a blanket, you’ll never go wrong. A 100% affordable cozy moment.

6. Love the Potato

Potatoes have everything you need to brave the cold, in addition to costing next to nothing. Of course, you love them mashed, in a baked dish, confit and, of course, as French fries. To enjoy this affordable veggie, turn it into the star of your meal: on a pizza, for example, or stuffed to turn it into a full-fledged main course.

7. Revisit a Childhood Dessert

Four ingredients, that’s all you need to enjoy the puffy, crunchy marshmallow rice cereal squares of your memories. Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s a dessert that can be made at the last minute. Plus, you can ask the kids to help you in the preparation so they can share in this nostalgic delight.

For more budget recipes to make when it’s cold outside, read this article.