Comfort food is so special to me. Whenever I dig into a warm plate of food, it takes me back to being in my grandma’s kitchen in Ukraine and watching her cook. So many of my recipes are inspired by my mom or grandma, and I hope to continue passing them down through generations. As the weather gets colder, let’s embrace creamy and comforting meals that taste like home!
International Monday: Khinkali (Georgian Dumplings)
Georgian food culture is underrated, and these soft meat-filled dumplings are a prime example of that. Whenever I make them, my hungry boys scarf them down before I can blink.
Hot tips
- I typically use a blend of ground beef and chicken, but any ground meat that you have on hand will work.
- Make a double batch and freeze the raw dumplings for up to three months.
- Pair the dumplings with khachapuri and a cucumber tomato salad. Don’t forget the butter, black pepper, and fresh herbs on top!
Simple Tuesday: Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
This sausage dinner is right up our family’s alley. We’re loyal fans of the meat + veggie combo, and I love how effortlessly and quickly everything comes together (like 25 minutes quick!).
Hot tips
- If you want to add more bulk to the meal, dish up rice or mashed potatoes.
Nostalgic Wednesday: Homemade Hamburger Helper
Whether you’re a long-time Hamburger Helper enjoyer or this is your first time hearing about it, I don’t think anyone can resist this comforting dish. It’s essentially a beefed-up mac and cheese that is ready in under 30 minutes. My boys love it!
Hot tips
- This green cabbage salad adds a wonderful tangy crunch to cut through the richness of the meal.
Fancy Thursday: Lobster Bisque
It’s National Lobster Day, which I take as an invitation to make this creamy and flavorful lobster bisque. It tastes so incredible, you’d be surprised that it can be made from the comfort of your own home.
Hot tips
- If you don’t feel like making your own lobster stock, use storebought seafood stock instead.
- Round out the meal with a baguette and garden salad.
Low and Slow Friday: Crock Pot Pork Chops
Let me tell you guys something — when you take pork chops and cook them in a seasoned onion and mushroom broth for six hours, some type of magic happens. I love how it only takes me 15 minutes to prep them, and then the slow cooker does the rest of the work.
Hot tips
- Look for thick-cut pork chops with plenty of marbling — these have the best flavor.
- My favorite way to serve these chops is with creamy herbed potatoes and marinated tomatoes.
Breakfast of the Week: Russian Pancakes (Oladi)
To celebrate National Pancake Day this Friday, taste a piece of my childhood with this Russian twist on the classic American buttermilk pancake. Those crispy edges are to-die-for!
Dessert of the Week: Homemade Ferrero Raffaello Candies
Anyone who knows me knows I’m obsessed with Ferrero Raffaellos. The crispy wafer, roasted almonds, and coconut cream is heavenly, and learning how to make these at home was a game-changer.
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