Ep 5. Feel Good Food

In episode 5 of season 3 of "Down Home with the Neelys," titled "Feel Good Food," hosts Pat and Gina Neely focus on creating comforting dishes that will make viewers feel good from the inside out.

The episode begins with the Neelys preparing a classic pot roast with vegetables, which they describe as the ultimate comfort food. They brown the meat in a Dutch oven before adding in onions, carrots, and potatoes to cook slowly alongside the meat. To add even more flavor, they also add in red wine and beef broth. As the dish simmers, Pat and Gina discuss how cooking and eating comforting meals can have a positive impact on mental health and emotional well-being.

Next, the Neelys turn their attention to breakfast, showcasing a hearty oatmeal dish that they've dubbed "Morning Glory Oats." They start by boiling steel-cut oats with water, cinnamon, and honey until the mixture thickens. They then add in chopped apples, raisins, and chopped walnuts for texture and flavor. The dish is finished with a drizzle of maple syrup and a pat of butter. Pat and Gina explain that starting the day with a nutritious, satisfying meal can set a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Moving on to lunch, the Neelys prepare a warm and comforting bowl of tomato soup accompanied by crunchy grilled cheese croutons. They start by cooking diced onions and garlic in a Dutch oven before adding in canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and spices. Pat and Gina blend the soup until smooth before setting it aside to prepare the grilled cheese croutons. They make the croutons by spreading melted butter and Dijon mustard on slices of toasted bread. They then top the bread with a mixture of grated cheddar and parmesan cheese before broiling until golden and crispy. The Neelys discuss how satisfying a simple bowl of soup and grilled cheese can be, especially during a cold and dreary day.

For dinner, the Neelys create a satisfying and flavorful one-pot meal of Italian sausage and peppers. They start by browning sliced Italian sausage in a Dutch oven. They then add in sliced onions, red and green bell peppers, garlic, and canned tomatoes. The mixture is seasoned generously with dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. The Neelys allow the dish to simmer until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. They serve the dish over a bed of polenta, made from boiling cornmeal with water or broth until thickened. Pat and Gina explain that dishes like this are not only easy to make, but also perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Finally, the Neelys end the episode with a recipe for a sweet and indulgent dessert – chocolate chip bread pudding. They start by whisking together eggs, milk, whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. They then fold in chunks of day-old bread and a generous amount of chocolate chips. The mixture is poured into a baking dish and baked until golden and puffy. Pat and Gina serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with chocolate sauce and a dollop of whipped cream. They discuss the importance of allowing oneself to indulge in sweet treats every now and then, and how it can contribute to overall satisfaction and enjoyment in life.

Overall, the "Feel Good Food" episode of "Down Home with the Neelys" highlights the importance of cooking and eating comforting and satisfying meals that can boost mood and well-being. The Neelys showcase a variety of recipes, from breakfast to dessert, that are easy to make and sure to please.