Embracing Comfort in October: A Celebration of Cozy Foods

October’s crisp air and turning leaves invite us to enjoy cozy, nostalgic meals made with seasonal ingredients. Think chili, banana bread, and pumpkin lattes—comfort foods for body and soul. This is my favorite time of year, because it's when I can finally turn my oven back on and enjoy hearty, soothing meals during the chilly days and nights ahead. By the time October comes, I am ready and eager to indulge in these comforting delights!

This season, treat yourself to some old favorites or explore new recipes with the many titles the Mercer County Library System has to offer. Here are a few books to get you going:

The Complete Autumn & Winter Cookbook: 550+ Recipes for Warming Dinners, Holiday Roasts, Seasonal Desserts, Breads, Food Gifts, and More

America's Test Kitchen

641.564 COM 2021

Good Soup: 52 Colorful Recipes for Year-Round Comfort

Bijdendijk, Joris

641.813 BIJ 2023

Half Baked Harvest Quick & Cozy

Gerard, Tieghan

641.512 GER 2024

Homestyle Kitchen: Fresh & Timeless Comfort Food for Sharing

Rutland, Julia Dowling

641.5 RUT 2024

Modern Comfort Food

Garten, Ina

641.5 GAR 2020

One-Hour Comfort: Quick, Cozy, Modern Dishes for All Your Cravings

America's Test Kitchen

641.555 ONE 2021

 

 

 

You may also find some “appetizing” titles in eBook and audio formats by searching “comfort foods” in eLibraryNJ (Libby).

The Mercer County Library System now offers Library Chef, a series of cooking classes designed for adults, kids, and teens, where you can learn from expert chefs and nutritionists. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, there's something for everyone!

Take some time this October to cozy up with nourishing food. Jennifer Allen, in her article for the Boston Herald, “Pass the Soup! Why we crave hearty food in the fall” explains it this way:

“As the temperature drops, our cravings for hearty, comfort foods are driven by more than just hunger. These dishes offer warmth and necessary nutrition for the winter months, tapping into our sense of nostalgia and tradition.”

 - Ilene, Robbisville Branch