There is nothing as comforting as the warmth of a hearty, hot meal during the bone-breaking winter days. Even though some foods can be devoured at any temperature, certain winter foods have to be consumed while it's steaming hot. Our expert, Harendra Dubey, Senior Dietician, Sharda Hospital - Noida, shared that it is for several reasons – to experience their flavours and textures, comforting qualities or to relax the sore throat and upset stomach from the winter chills.
Why The Heat Is Important
There is also the practical health benefit of having winter foods hot – in winter, when one might want to indulge in such curries or chillies, their warmth also heats the stomach up, warming a part of the body where many nutrients are absorbed into the body. Here are a few reasons as explained by our expert:
- Hot foods keep your internal body temperature going which boosts circulation.
- It can also improve the digestion of specific types of food.
- There are psychological gains from the hot food eaten at cold temperatures.
Winter Foods That Must Be Consumed When Hot
We also asked our expert to list down a few winter foods that should only be eaten while they're hot. Here is what he shared with us.
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1. Soups and Stews
Soups and stews are always the quintessence of wintertime delights. Whether the dish is that classic noodle soup or a chicken stew, they lose their much-needed charm to be lukewarm. As the warmth envelops our mouth and throat, the gentle steam soothes our senses. Hot soup and stews even help in keeping our nasal pathway clear during all those cold-and-flu-inducing seasons.
2. Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is almost everyone’s winter favourite. It is one of the most pleasing beverages both for children and adults. Experiencing its creamy texture along with flavours of rich cocoa while still piping hot and after it cools down is a completely different experience. It might become grainy after cooling down, which would take the essence and crux of having a hot chocolate.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasting brings out the earthy sweetness and depth of flavour in winter vegetables such as pumpkin, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes. The best time to consume them is fresh from the stove/oven when they are still caramelised and slightly crisp. However, after they cool down, they lose their great texture and become soggy.
4. Pies and Casseroles
Whether it is a chicken pot pie or a cheesy lasagna, pies and casseroles are synonymous with winter comfort food. The gooey cheese, creamy sauces, and flaky crusts are at their peak when served hot. Reheating these dishes is always an option, but nothing compares to enjoying them straight out of the oven.
Also Read: Winter Superfoods: Nutrition-rich Food For Diabetics, Expert Suggests
5. Mulled Beverages
Mulled wine and spiced cider are winter classics that are made to be served warm. The heat of the drink makes the spices of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg really aromatic and inviting. Drinking them hot also gives a cosy, warming feeling that's perfect for cold evenings.
6. Curries and Spicy Dishes
Winter is a time for spicy curries, chilli, and so much more of this hot stuff. Spices can be far stronger and fragrant when they're hot than they are once cooled.
Bottomline
Winter foods served hot are more than just meals, they’re an experience of warmth and comfort that nourish both body and soul. So, next time you’re facing a chilly evening, reach for one of these dishes and savor it while it’s still hot.