Anthony Bourdain, renowned for his trademark sharp wit, advocacy for the working class and marginalized communities, and insightful commentary on all things culinary, remains an enduring influence on the food industry.
Bourdain, a multifaceted figure with a complex personality, held flaws that were, in many ways, his unique strengths, as “Roadrunner” director Morgan Neville pointed out.
For those eager to embrace the arrival of fall and expand their repertoire of comforting dishes, here’s a selection of Bourdain’s most comforting recipes, sourced from his books, cookbooks, cooking show appearances, and travel series like “Parts Unknown.”
Choose from this collection, confident that your culinary endeavor will yield satisfying results.
- Mushroom Soup: This dish embodies simplicity, featuring just six ingredients (plus salt and pepper) that together create a deeply mushroom-infused flavor. Those with a penchant for mushrooms will relish its distinct taste. You can customize it to your preferences by using vegetable stock for a vegetarian version, oil for a vegan twist, or omitting the sherry for an alcohol-free option.
- Turkey Matzo Ball Soup: A delightful twist on the classic, this recipe substitutes chicken with turkey, adding a touch of freshness with fresh herbs. While Bourdain incorporates chicken fat, you can easily swap it for oil or butter if desired. Don’t be hesitant about the seltzer; it contributes to the matzo balls’ lightness and buoyancy.
- Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy: Elevate the traditional mid-century meatloaf with this exceptionally tender and flavorful version, paired with an indulgent mushroom gravy. The meatloaf incorporates familiar ingredients, while the gravy boasts shallots, abundant mushrooms, veal stock, and heavy cream, resulting in a velvety, rich sauce. Bourdain himself acknowledges, “My mom’s meatloaf is undoubtedly better than yours, but this is not my mom’s meatloaf recipe. This one is a fusion designed to evoke all the important meatloaves in my life.”
- Roasted Chicken: As many have claimed, the true measure of a cook lies in their ability to roast a chicken (or make an omelette). Bourdain emphasizes that “everybody should know how to roast a chicken.” This classic recipe relies on the magic of fresh herbs, lemon, butter, wine, stock, and parsley to deliver a moist, flavorful chicken. Pair it with roasted vegetables, a starch like scalloped potatoes, and a simple pan sauce for a truly exceptional meal.
- Braised Veal Shanks (Osso Bucco): While procuring veal shanks may prove more challenging than obtaining common produce or proteins, the effort is well worth it for this dish. Exceptionally tender and bursting with flavor and texture, this braised dish resembles something you’d savor at a restaurant. Preparing it at home allows you to relish it comfortably on your couch, immersing yourself in its richness and flavor. Pair it with risotto and gremolata for a truly restaurant-worthy experience at home.
