The cold, dark days of winter tend to drive us indoors seeking warmth. Whether it’s the heat of a roaring fire, a hot steamy drink, or a spicy bowl of chili, we crave the feeling of cozy comfort! This is a recognizable shift and often a welcome contrast to the hot days of summer. Cold foods like leafy green salads are less often on the menu, while hot, nourishing broths and roasted root vegetables take center stage.
We savor warm, comforting foods to fend off the chill of the colder months. The shift to warming foods is not only about the temperature of food; it’s also about the energy that warming foods bring to our body, and the vital role this plays in achieving balance and well-being.
According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the “temperature” of food is categorized as “warming” and “cooling” based on the ingredient’s thermal properties and their effect on the yin and yang energies in the body.
Yin represents the cooler, nourishing, and more peaceful energy aspects, while yang represents warmer, invigorating, and more active energy. Although contrasting, yin and yang are truly complementary and, according to TCM guidance, need to be balanced for harmony and well-being.
Warming foods (yang), often red, orange, or yellow in color—such as turmeric, cinnamon, root vegetables, and mangoes—not only increase internal body heat, but they’re also thought to improve circulation, boost energy, improve digestion, and increase metabolism.
Amid the need for warmth in the cooler months, balance is also essential. TCM teaches that too many heavy and dense warming foods can leave us feeling sluggish. Just as crisp, cold winter air is invigorating when we’re warmly bundled, the contrast of cooling ingredients can help cut through the richness of warmer foods.
Cooling foods (yin)—such as leafy greens, celery, cucumber, watermelon, mint, and berries—are often green, blue, or purple in color. They’re thought to help clear excess heat and toxins from the body to leave us feeling light and calm. They can also be soothing and may help reduce inflammation, as cooling foods are often hydrating and high in fiber, which aids digestion by promoting regularity in bowel movements.
Just as with yin and yang of foods, this season brings both the giving and receiving of gifts, and the stress and enjoyment of planning nostalgic traditions. Days filled with quiet reflection can also be followed by the noisy bustle of holiday gatherings, bringing a harmonious and balanced sense of joy that nurtures the soul.
In the spirit of balance, listen to your body this season: recognize and honor what you need more of and what you need less of. These five delicious, seasonally inspired recipes can help bring harmony to your holiday table.
Spiced Pear and Pomegranate Sangria
Ginger adds a spicy kick to this delicious and refreshing holiday beverage. Perfect to enjoy with family and friends, this colorful and slightly sweet drink can also be swapped for a fruit-forward red wine. Any way you choose, you’ll enjoy a wine-soaked, sweet fruit medley at the bottom of every glass!
Mandarin and Mint Waldorf Endive Boats
Delicate endive leaves are crowned with a sweet and satisfyingly crunchy topping that’s rich in fiber and antioxidants and packed full of texture and taste. The warm, earthy flavor of cumin brings out the bright, citrusy notes of orange and refreshing mint. A healthy spinoff of an age-old classic that is sure to please!
Mushroom Stuffed Steak Pinwheels with Roasted Carrot and Cauliflower Purée
The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables creates a rich purée that perfectly complements the succulent flank steak wrapped around a herbed mushroom medley. This recipe comes together with minimal effort yet delivers a sophisticated and eye-pleasing dish that’s delicious in every way―guaranteed to wow even the fussiest of dinner guests.
Creamy Pastitsio with Lentil Bolognese
Cinnamon-infused creamy vegan bechamel tops layers of pasta and rich lentil Bolognese sauce in this Greek lasagna (pastitsio). With just a hint of sweetness, this savory pasta dish is the perfect warming comfort food on a chilly winter night.
Cherry Chocolate Vegan Cheesecake Minis
An aromatic combo of cinnamon and toasted almonds is bound together with sweet, rich dates for a delicious nutty base that’s topped with creamy, smooth, and tangy cherry decadence. Nutrient-dense and topped with dark chocolate, these little “cheesecake” minis are completely dairy-free and can be enjoyed at room temperature or frozen―either way, they’re delicious!
This collection originally appeared on alive.com as “Culinary Contrast.”
