Cravings and Comfort during Quarantine: Breakdowns and Comfort Foods
Everyone has unique cravings, especially during these challenging times of quarantine. We explore some of the more unusual and comforting food desires people have during their isolation, providing solutions and insights to help others find relief.
Unusual Cravings and the Unconventional
One of the most peculiar yet intriguing cravings comes from someone who is currently in their third week of a COVID sickness, craving cooked blood. Yes, you read that right. They describe a strange yet specific desire for cooked blood without the fat, after having an increased protein and electrolyte intake. This unusual craving not only highlights the unpredictability of our bodies’ wants but also the importance of trying to understand and address them. This abstinent yet unfulfilled food desire adds a humorous and relatable layer to understanding our limitations and choices during quarantine.
Daily Cravings and the Service Element
Another person expresses their craving for the service associated with dining out, mentioning that with the expanded availability of takeout, they can still satisfy their cravings but the element of good service and tipping is missing. This highlights how our cravings go beyond just the food itself, and can be intimately tied to the experience of consuming it. Such emotional attachments to dining experiences can make the domestic equivalent feel lacking, despite the abundance of choices available.
Seasonal and Fun Foods
Some individuals are finding solace in seasonal foods, like fresh strawberries, asparagus, and fresh garlic. These ingredients not only add a natural variety and flavor to their meals but also align with the current season. Exploring and indulging in seasonal produce can be a refreshing way to bring about a sense of normalcy, even when things seem otherwise uncertain.
Cooking and Process Cravings
There’s also a person craving the process of making certain dishes, such as almond cashews and fruits. This shows that the journey of preparing and cooking can be just as appealing as the end result. However, realizing the effort involved, they resort to purchasing pre-made muffins and putting them in the freezer for a less demanding experience. The desire for the convenience of prepared foods without sacrificing the occasional homemade treat is a common one during quarantine.
Comfort Foods from Abroad
The excitement for specific dishes from other countries, like Spanish croquettes, Tostas Pil Pil (prawns in a spicy piquant sauce on toast), and the general concept of authentic restaurant fare, further emphasizes the craving for a fuller dining experience. The joy of savoring such delicacies lies not just in their taste but in the memories and experiences associated with them. Despite the lockdown, people still seek these touchstones of comfort and joy.
Trusted and Comforting Meals
One of the comforting revelations is the simple yet hearty meal of beans and rice, prepared by someone’s son. The preparation of such a meal not only satisfies a craving but also brings family together, fostering a sense of connection and comfort. These traditional dishes have stood the test of time and offer a reliable, comforting anchor during uncertain times.
Conclusion
Cravings during quarantine range from the unconventional, such as cooked blood, to the comforting, like seasonal produce and authentic restaurant dishes. The experiences shared underscore the human need for variety, comfort, and connection, even in challenging circumstances. While some crave specific meals, others value the luxury of satisfying service. These stories remind us that, amidst the challenges of quarantine, there is always a way to find comfort and joy in simple pleasures. Whether it’s a homemade treat, a seasonal delicacy, or a cherished memory, these cravings help us navigate through the unique moments of our lives.