15 Cozy, Stress-Relieving Recipes to Cook Right Now

Roast chicken with za’atar, lemons and shallots is as easy to make as it is comforting to eat. Image by Liza Schoenfein

By Liza Schoenfein November 9, 2016

I have a blog called Life, Death & Dinner, so named in an attempt communicate the idea that whatever happens — good or bad, celebration-worthy or stress-inducing — you have to get dinner on the table, and you might as well enjoy it.

That notion really resonates with me today. I tend to turn to the stove during hurricanes and other hard times because I find it soothing, both the process — chopping and stirring, smelling and tasting — and the notion that I’m doing something that offers sustenance for my family and friends as well as myself.

Last night, watching the returns in my living room with my kids and our neighbors, we ate pizza, cheese and crackers, ice cream and store-bought cookies… but today I feel the need to cook. I hate the cliché, but I’m talking about comfort food here: simple and satisfying dishes like soups and stews, roasted chickens, homey cakes… Here are some of my favorites.