How’re you doing, really?
Dreary, rainy days, being stuck in the house because of lockdown… it’s no wonder so many of us are feeling down or depressed at this time of year, especially in a year that has been as challenging as this one.
Supporting your wellbeing with good food is just one of the many tools that are available to help us through dark moments.
You may not feel like cooking if you’re feeling depressed, but your body will thank you for it, because what you eat has the power to change your mood.
What you eat provides the building blocks for your hormones and neurotransmitters, and therefore can have a huge influence on your mood.
Everyone associates tryptophan with turkey, but chicken is an equally good source of this essential amino acid. Tryptophan is needed for Serotonin synthesis, which is believed to play a key role in regulating sleep and mood.
Try this simple Spanish stew and let it bring a little warmth and comfort into your day.
Method
- Preheat oven to 180c. Heat olive oil in a large pot and add onions, sautée til golden.
- Add chicken thighs and sear til they’re brown. Add garlic and spices and a stir for a minute until they’re toasted.
- Add the rest of the ingredients, making sure the chicken is covered with the sauce.
- Once it begins bubbling, transfer to the oven for 45 minutes to an hour.
- Serve with wild rice, quinoa or potatoes.
