Top Five Indian Comfort Foods to Enjoy During the Danish Winter
Denmark’s long, dark winters call for warmth from cozy blankets and candles, and from some food that soothes the soul. Indian cuisine, with its rich spices, slow-cooked stews, and creamy textures, offers the perfect antidote to chilly Nordic days. Comfort food is like a warm hug held in your hands. For some it may be a steaming cup of masala chai, for others it's a hearty bowl of khichdi, let's unveil some of the most popular comfort foods.
At Sura by Sana, we believe that food is more than sustenance—it is history, culture, and a bridge between places and people. And often, history is carried more through the humble traditions of comfort food than the grand legacies of celebrated culinary classics.
1. Masala Chai – A Hug in a Cup
Nothing beats the Danish cold like a steaming cup of masala chai. This spiced tea is more than just a drink—it’s a ritual of warmth, hospitality, and comfort in every sip. Made with black tea, milk, and a blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves, masala chai has been a household staple in India for centuries.
Quick Recipe:
2 cups water
2 tsp loose black tea (or 2 tea bags)
½ cup milk
2-3 crushed cardamom pods
1 small cinnamon stick
3-4 slices fresh ginger
2 cloves
Sugar or honey to taste
Method: Bring water to a boil with the spices, then add tea leaves and simmer for 2 minutes. Pour in milk, let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, then strain and sweeten as desired.
Tip: Pair with crispy biscuits or homemade samosas for the ultimate winter treat!
2. Curd Rice – Cooling Yet Comforting
While cold weather usually calls for warm meals, curd rice is an exception. This South Indian staple is a cooling, probiotic-rich dish made with soft-cooked rice, yogurt, and a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. It’s a dish that brings balance—light yet nourishing, simple yet packed with flavor.
In many Indian homes, curd rice is often the go-to meal for days when you need something easy to digest. It is a favorite among children and elders alike, offering a sense of comfort with every bite.
A version of curd rice is also popular in Bihar, Jharkhand and parts of Central India where curd is coupled with flattened rice. This duet is mostly paired with jaggery for sweetness. It’s not just a comfort food during winters but also an auspicious meal that is served on Makar Sankranti.
Tip: For a richer version, add a drizzle of ghee or some pomegranate seeds for a sweet contrast.
3. Khichdi (Khichede) – The Indian Risotto
For those days when you want something simple yet nourishing, khichdi (or khichede, as called in East India) is the answer. This one-pot dish of lentils and rice, cooked with turmeric, cumin, and ghee, is the ultimate comfort food. Similar to a risotto or Danish grød, khichdi is creamy, wholesome, and incredibly easy to digest—perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather or just need a warm bowl of goodness.
On a lazy day, most Indian households turn to khichdi—a quick-to-cook and easy-on-the-stomach dish that lightens the day. It’s a meal that nurtures both body and soul.
Tip: Serve with a dollop of ghee, a side of crispy papad, or a spoonful of pickle for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Litti Chokha – A Rustic, Hearty Delight
A beloved dish from Bihar and Jharkhand, litti chokha is a rustic, wholesome meal perfect for winter. Litti is a baked wheat flour ball stuffed with a spiced filling of sattu (roasted gram flour), mustard oil, and pickling spices, while chokha is a mashed side dish made of roasted eggplant, potatoes, and tomatoes. The smoky, earthy flavours of this dish make it a favourite among those who crave something hearty and warm.
Litti chokha has been a staple for centuries, loved for its simple yet robust flavours. Traditionally, it is cooked over an open flame, giving it a delicious charred taste. Though it’s a time-consuming dish to prepare, its popularity ensures it is widely available, from roadside stalls to restaurants, making it an easy dish to enjoy anytime.
Tip: Drizzle with ghee right before eating for an extra layer of richness.
5. Vada Pav – The Indian Burger That Warms the Soul
If you’re craving street food on a cold winter evening, vada pav is the answer. Known as Mumbai’s favorite snack, this dish consists of a spicy potato fritter (vada) sandwiched between a soft bread roll (pav), smeared with tangy chutneys and sometimes topped with fried green chilies for an extra kick.
The beauty of vada pav lies in its simplicity—it’s quick to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and bursting with bold flavors. The combination of crispy, spiced potato, fluffy bread, and fiery chutneys makes it a true comfort food classic.
Tip: Pair with a cup of masala chai for the ultimate winter snack experience.
Bringing Indian Warmth to the Danish Winter
Whether you're sipping on a cup of masala chai or indulging in a bowl of khichdi, these Indian comfort foods bring warmth and nostalgia to even the coldest of days. Each dish carries a story, a tradition, and a rich tapestry of flavors that make winter a little more bearable—and a lot more delicious.
At Sura by Sana, we bring the soul of Indian cuisine to Copenhagen, blending tradition with fine-dining elegance and the warmth of nostalgia. Here in Copenhagen we wish to bring the ardor of comfort food through our private dining experience, hosting events with customized Indian menus for weddings in Copenhagen, or organising hands-on Indian culinary workshops in Kbh Denmark.
