Cooking And Grief

Cooking is often a way to share cultures, support each other, and provide for each other. While we might not always think about it in this context, it is a way that we care for others. Food and fellowship go hand in hand. When dealing with loss, a tray of food can mean a lot when coming from a loved one. Especially if it's homemade. Below, we will talk about cooking to connect with those we've lost, as well as cooking to support those dealing with grief.

Cooking and Coping With Loss

When dealing with grief, you might have days where even the thought of standing in the kitchen and cooking a meal might be too overwhelming. And that is OK. But, if you have the ability to, cooking can be a good outlet for working through your grief. Cooking can connect us with those we've lost. Making their favorite meals or comfort foods can be cathartic. Cooking for others, friends, and family that are also grieving, and being together at the table can be healing.

Supporting Loved Ones With a Meal

Providing food to a grieving family is a common practice. Sending food is a great way to show your support for the family during hard times. When sending food, be mindful of dietary restrictions, allergies, and storage. Send food in a tin tray, or a microwave-safe container. This will help the grieving family to be able to heat up the food more easily and store it in the fridge or freezer with ease. Be sure to make enough for all members of the household, but consider making more. Extra food can go a long way. Plus, many friends and family may visit the grieving family over the next few days, so extra portions can be helpful to them. 

Comfort Food or Healthy Food

Often, grieving families are given plates of catered food that might not always be healthy. If you are planning on cooking for grieving loved ones, consider making something healthier. Be sure to use plenty of vegetables so that they can get a more nutritious meal. It's easy to consider making something more in line with comfort food, which can also be a good idea. But remember that most of the time, they are getting that kind of food in the form of people sending food from restaurants. Providing healthy options can allow them to get better food in their system. When in doubt, send both. Consider making a simple salad or roasting some vegetables in the oven in addition to whatever comfort food you would like to send.

For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.