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New Jersey: Our Best Winter Food Is This Hearty Bowl Of Soup

Author Jeff Gorra

The transition into a winter season on the East Coast can be a huge change. From warmer clothes, to earlier sundowns, you often seek comfort in the winter months. Taste of Home recognized this at the end of last year, publishing the best winter recipe in each state, and in New Jersey the favorite recipe is a classic comfort food.

Scrolling through the winter dish of choice in all 50 states, the one common theme is that each item selected is a warm food. In fact, many of them are unique twists on stove-top favorites or classics that are baked in a pan. Regardless if you are in the warmer climate or up north in the frigid cold, the winter season is synonymous with the holiday season. That means more home cooking.

In addition, the Super Bowl is always in the winter, as is New Year’s Eve. These are two of the most anticipated get-together days of the year. It is hard not to find a table full of hot food on either occasion.

Considering where you are in the country and what your local cuisine seems to favor, it is interesting to see how the recipes of choice differ depending on which region you live in. For New Jersey, the best winter recipe can be made in your kitchen or served in a hot bowl at your local pub.

Cream Of Mushroom Soup

This is a great balance of hot comfort mixed with a little bit of healthy. It’s flexible enough to be an appetizer or served with some warm bread to fill you up. The perfect recipe calls for a 1/2 pound sliced fresh mushrooms. While you are certainly encouraged to cook up your own perfect creamy broth, two cans of chicken broth will also do the trick.

If you feel like heading out, Yelp recently highlighted ten great spots for mushroom soup. As an alternative, if you are in the mood for an unforgettable bowl of cream of chicken soup (a close cousin to cream of mushroom), head over to the Wyckoff Deli.

6 Go-To Meals for Adults Who Eat Like Children

Ever catch yourself secretly craving those comfort foods from your childhood? Eating habits are a fundamental aspect of our daily lives, reflecting our culture, upbringing, and personal preferences. It’s natural for children to have unique and sometimes unconventional eating habits. But it’s interesting to know that there are adults who proudly embrace eating like children. Gravitating towards what some might call “childish meals.” These people, unapologetically, opt for the comforting and familiar flavors of childhood, turning to dishes that might make a Michelin-star chef raise an eyebrow.

One reason adults may adopt childlike eating habits is the comfort of familiarity. Many of us have fond memories of childhood meals and snacks, and for some, replicating these flavors can provide a sense of nostalgia and security. Whether indulging in a favorite cereal or enjoying a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, these comfort foods can offer a brief escape from the complexities of adult life.

Childish meals are straightforward and hassle-free

In times of stress or challenges, these dishes offer a sense of security and ease, like a cozy blanket for the palate. The preparation and consumption of childish meals are straightforward and hassle-free.

After a demanding day, adults may go for dishes that require minimal effort and decision-making. Adulting can be overwhelming at times, with its responsibilities, stressors, and expectations. Eating like a child can serve as a temporary escape from these pressures. It’s a way to rebel against the constraints of adulthood, if only for a moment. In a world that often demands seriousness and discipline, indulging in playful and carefree eating can be a form of self-care.

Shared sense of nostalgia

Interestingly, eating like a child can also be a social activity. It might serve as a bonding experience among friends or family members, creating a shared sense of nostalgia. This behavior can be especially prevalent at themed parties, where adults gather to relive their childhoods through food and games.

Food preferences are highly subjective. Some adults simply enjoy the taste and texture of these childhood dishes, regardless of any deeper motivations. Personal taste plays a significant role in meal choices.

Dishes like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, mac ‘n’ cheese, or chicken tenders offer comfort, memories, and a connection to the past. So, when you see someone enjoying their favorite childhood meal, remember it’s more than just food. It’s a reminder that simple joys are often the best.

Take a look at these go-to meals for adults who eat like children.

  • Macaroni and Cheese

    Gooey, cheesy, and served with a side of warm nostalgia, mac ‘n’ cheese has an enduring appeal for many adults. Its simplicity and comfort make it a beloved choice among those who eat like children. Plus, it’s easy to make or dump out of a box into a pot.

    American creamy macaroni and cheese pasta

    OlgaMiltsova/ Getty Images

  • Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches:

    The classic combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly or jam between two slices of bread is a timeless favorite. It’s a simple pleasure that resonates with adults seeking a taste of their carefree days. A sweet and nutty symphony that satisfies the kid in you with refined taste.

    Homemade Crustless Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich with Chips

    bhofack2/ Getty Images

  • Chicken Tenders and Fries

    Crispy chicken tenders paired with seasoned fries provide a satisfying and familiar meal. Their widespread availability makes them a reliable choice for those moments when you’re not sure what to order. This childhood classic still holds a special place in the hearts (and palates) of adults who appreciate its uncomplicated goodness.

    Homemade Crispy Chicken Tenders and French Fries on a white plate, side view.

    Liudmyla Chuhunova/ Getty Images

  • Sloppy Joe

    Sloppy Joe’s are messy and fun to eat. An explosion of ground beef, onions, peppers, and a tangy tomato sauce that’s so messy, you’ll need a bib (or a sense of adventure). Enjoy it piled high on a fresh brioche bun, and embrace the chaos as you bite into this wild and wonderfully messy delight.

    Salsa Sloppy Joe

    chas53/ Getty Images

  • Cereal and Milk

    Many adults grew up eating cereal as a staple breakfast or snack. It brings back fond memories of childhood mornings and simple, carefree times. Cereal is incredibly convenient. It requires minimal preparation too. Just pour it into a bowl, add milk, and you’re good to go. This makes it an attractive option for busy adults. And it comes in a wide range of flavors and types, from sugary classics to healthier options.

    Young beautiful woman in morning bed at home. Eating breakfast chocolate cereal bowl with milk. Enjoying eating tasty yummy food for morning breakfast.

    Vlad Dmytrenko/ Getty Images

  • Mini Pizza Bagels

    Mini pizza bagels often bring back fond memories of childhood lunches or after-school snacks. Many adults have a nostalgic attachment to them, making them a comforting choice. The combination of soft bagels, savory sauce, gooey cheese, and toppings provides a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

    Frozen Mini PIzza Bagels with Cheese and Pepperoni

    bhofack2/ Getty Images

Jeff Gorra is a Boston-based writer who has been with Beasley Media Group since the beginning of 2023. He writes about restaurants and food, as well as sports and rock music. His experience also includes show hosting and in-depth creative writing in rock and reggae dub music. Jeff’s an avid surfer, New York Giants, and Pearl Jam fan, however, if you make unforgettable pizza, he is sure to find you.

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