As a military wife, dealing with deployment periods can be tough, emotionally taxing, and at times, overwhelmingly lonely. The absence of your loved one who is serving can fill days with uncertainty and stress. One way to bring some solace and comfort during these challenging times is through cooking. The aroma of delicious meals simmering on the stove or baking in the oven not only fills the kitchen but also the heart, creating a sense of continuity and normalcy. Here, we present some comforting recipes specifically tailored for military wives during deployment days.
Chicken Pot Pie
Why it’s comforting: There’s something inherently comforting about the rich, creamy sauce combined with tender vegetables and chunks of chicken, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. This dish evokes home, warmth, and love.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and cubed
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1⁄2 cup chopped celery
- 1⁄3 cup butter
- 1⁄3 cup chopped onion
- 1⁄3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1⁄4 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 3⁄4 cups chicken broth
- 2⁄3 cup milk
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
👩🍳 Note: If using store-bought crusts, you can often find them in the refrigerated section near the cookie dough in most supermarkets.
👀 Note: To make this process smoother, consider prepping ingredients in advance. Cut up vegetables and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
Beef Stroganoff
Why it’s comforting: Its creamy, savory sauce coats the beef and noodles, offering both a comforting taste and texture. The dish is easy to make and can be cooked in large batches, perfect for freezing and reheating later.
- 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup thinly sliced mushrooms
- 1⁄2 cup chopped onions
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 1⁄2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3⁄4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked
🌿 Note: For a lighter version, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt, or use whole grain noodles for added nutrition.
Minestrone Soup
Why it’s comforting: Minestrone soup is like a hug in a bowl. With its variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta, it’s hearty, healthy, and can be endlessly tweaked to suit individual preferences.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1⁄2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or small shells)
- 1⁄2 cup fresh spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
🍴 Note: This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, making it ideal for meal prep during busy times.
Apple Crisp
Why it’s comforting: The sweet scent of apples and cinnamon baking fills your home with warmth, making it a soothing treat for any time of the day. Its simplicity also allows for stress-free baking.
- 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 cup rolled oats
- 1⁄2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1⁄4 cup butter, softened
- 1⁄4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon baking soda
Deployment Days Coping Tips
While cooking can provide comfort, here are some additional tips to help manage the days of deployment:
- Stay Connected: Regular communication can make all the difference. Use video calls, emails, and care packages to keep the bond strong.
- Community: Connect with other military spouses or communities. Support groups can offer emotional support, understanding, and friendship.
- Self-Care: Prioritize your mental and physical health. Activities like yoga, reading, or walking can be very soothing.
- Plan Ahead: Organize your daily schedule to include moments for yourself, ensuring you have time for relaxation and hobbies.
The significance of these dishes lies not just in their flavors but in the act of preparing and enjoying them. Cooking can be a meditative process, a way to channel stress and loneliness into something constructive and loving. As you eat these comforting meals, you create moments of calm and connection, bridging the gap between you and your deployed loved one. The kitchen becomes a place of solace, the stove a source of warmth, and the meals a symbol of enduring love and care.
Can I adapt these recipes for vegetarians?
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Yes, many of these recipes can be adapted for vegetarians. For instance, in the Chicken Pot Pie, you can substitute the chicken with extra vegetables or tofu. Similarly, Beef Stroganoff can be made with mushrooms or eggplant instead of beef.
How can I ensure the recipes remain fresh if I’m cooking alone?
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Most of these dishes can be refrigerated or frozen for later consumption. Chicken Pot Pie, Beef Stroganoff, and Minestrone Soup can be portioned out and frozen, while Apple Crisp can last in the fridge for several days. Just reheat as needed, and consider smaller portions to avoid waste.
Are there any tricks to making cooking feel less lonely?
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Yes, here are some tricks:
- Listen to music or an audiobook while cooking to keep you company.
- Invite friends or other military spouses over for a cooking session.
- Set the table for two and “cook with” your loved one by talking through video chat while preparing the meal.
- Share your cooking process on social media or in support groups to connect with others.
