“Let me know what I can help with.”
While this offer comes from a well-intentioned place, it’s another task for someone going through a difficult time to think about.
Whether it’s illness, grief, separation or another form of overwhelm, one of the only universally guaranteed ways to help someone is to drop off a meal for them.
The food itself – of course – is a gift. The comfort it can bring is one thing, nourishment another. But we implore you not to underestimate the power of removing even one decision from someone’s full plate.
Cooking anything is a beautiful gesture, but what meals are particularly good in these times? Take a look at our suggestions below.
Lasagne
You guessed it. There are a few reasons this famed traybake is a go-to. A traditional meat lasagne is a labour of love, a dish someone going through a difficult time likely won’t have the time for. If you’re cooking for a household and are unsure whether everyone eats meat, go for a vegetarian option that doubles up by packing plenty of nutrients in. For something extra special, consider this one from Clare Scrine, which pairs mushroom ragu with a pumpkin bechamel.
Risotto
Similarly, no one is going to spend precious time standing over a stove, tending to a risotto when they’re completely snowed under. You might want to consider Silvia Colloca’s pea and prawn version or Alessandro Pavoni’s mushroom-brimmed recipe. The bonus? Risotto reheats well and is often even better flavour-wise the next day, making it particularly gift friendly.
Fish dishes
Our guess is that fresh fish gets left behind when things are difficult, making it an especially thoughtful thing to cook for someone. It could be Ramy Megalaa’s Egyptian tagine with barramundi and prawns with a side of cous cous. Or even an easy sheet pan of fish fillets and veggies, like Mary Berg’s version.
Slow-cooked meats
Preparing some beef brisket, pulled pork or jackfruit can provide a great base for someone to build meals off – be it tacos, burritos, sandwiches, wraps, or simply pairing them with some rice and salad.
Chicken soup
For comfort and nutrition in equal measure, a trusty chicken soup might be the answer. Take a look at Asma’s coconut chicken noodle soup, served with chilli, lime and coriander. Or Peter Manifis’ avgolemono, a chicken, egg white and lemon soup that Greek people often cook for someone who is sick.
Fresh salads
Someone in distress might not have the patience to chop, slice and dice a bunch of salad ingredients. However, they might still crave fresh whole foods. Check out this round-up for stand-out recipes, some substantial enough to be meals on their own, others better as sides. A friendly tip: don't dress the salad yourself. You can’t be sure exactly when your recipient will actually dig in.
Frittata
Frittata is a clever way to get protein and fibre into the diet, hot or cold, any meal of the day. If you’re time-poor but still want to show some love, this could be the way to go. A chorizo and goat’s cheese version or a simple silverbeet recipe ought to do the trick.
A sweet treat
Some occasions call for the classics, perhaps an iced chocolate cake or a sticky date pudding with a generous scoop of ice cream. However, a kind word of warning if you’re cooking for a bereaved person. In some cultures, it’s inappropriate to gift cake, due to its generally celebratory nature. We advise doing a quick search to see if this applies before you get cooking.
SBS Food is a 24/7 foodie channel for all Australians, with a focus on simple, authentic and everyday food inspiration from cultures everywhere. NSW stream only. Read more about SBS Food
Have a story or comment? Contact Us
