Moving to a new location brings excitement, adventure, and a lot of change—but it can also leave you missing familiar flavours. One of the most common challenges people face after relocating is struggling to find your comfort foods after moving. Whether you’ve moved to a new city within Canada or relocated from another country, it can be difficult to recreate the tastes and ingredients you’re used to. We’ll explore steps to help you adjust to your new environment while still satisfying your cravings for beloved comfort foods.
Explore Local Markets and Grocery Stores
The first step in finding your comfort foods is to explore the local grocery stores and markets. Large grocery chains might not carry the same brands or ingredients you’re used to, especially if you’ve moved to a smaller town or a region with different culinary preferences. Learn how to find local organic food sources after relocating easily.
- Visit ethnic grocery stores – In cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, ethnic grocery stores often carry international products. These stores can be a treasure trove of ingredients that aren’t available at mainstream supermarkets.
- Check out farmers’ markets – In smaller towns like Sudbury, Ontario, farmers’ markets can connect you with local producers. They may have fresh, seasonal versions of the comfort foods you’re craving.
- Talk to store staff – Don’t hesitate to ask grocery store staff if they can order special items. They may even direct you to other locations where you can find what you need.
Connect with Local Food Communities
Moving offers the chance to connect with new food communities. Joining food-related groups can help you find your comfort foods after moving and discover new places to shop.
- Join online food forums or social media groups – Many communities have Facebook groups or forums where locals share tips on where to find specific ingredients. This can be helpful in small towns or rural areas with limited options.
- Attend local food events – Food festivals, cooking classes, or farmer meet-ups are great for learning more about the local food scene. Cities like Calgary and Ottawa host events that celebrate different culinary traditions.
- Network with neighbours – Your neighbours or coworkers can provide valuable insights. Ask them where they shop for specialty ingredients or which restaurants offer the foods you’re missing.
Adjusting to Different Food Cultures Across Provinces
To relocate to another province from one within Canada means encountering new regional cuisines. For example, moving from Ontario to British Columbia might leave you missing familiar dishes while you’re introduced to new flavours, like fresh Pacific seafood.
While missing your familiar comfort foods can be tough, moving also presents an exciting opportunity to expand your culinary horizons. You might find another comfort food while trying healthy snacks to keep you energized during relocation! Canada is home to a diverse food culture, and each region has its own unique flavours and specialties.
- Try local dishes – Depending on where you’ve moved, there might be local specialties that could become your new favourites. For example, if you’ve relocated to Quebec, try poutine or tourtière, or if you’re in the Maritimes, explore seafood dishes like lobster rolls.
- Blend new flavours with old favourites – Don’t be afraid to combine your favourite comfort foods with local ingredients. For example, if you’re missing a specific soup from home, try using locally sourced vegetables or spices to give it a regional twist.
- Stay open to new tastes – While it’s normal to miss familiar flavours, staying open to trying new foods can help ease the transition and make your new location feel more like home.
Try Making Homemade Versions of Your Favorites
If you can’t find your comfort foods after moving, why not try making them from scratch? Find cooking tips with the ultimate guide to healthy meal planning. With the right recipes and a bit of creativity, you can recreate the dishes you miss most. Cooking your comfort foods at home allows you to control the ingredients and make healthier versions of your favourite meals.
- Research recipes online – There are endless resources online where you can find recipes for just about any dish. There’s a recipe out there to guide you for each dish.
- Use substitutions when necessary – If you can’t find exact ingredients, look for suitable substitutes. For example, if you can’t find a particular cheese or seasoning, there are often alternatives available at your local store that will give a similar taste.
Get creative with what’s available – Don’t be afraid to adapt your comfort food recipes using local ingredients. You might be surprised how well you can replicate flavours using regional products.
Consider Specialty or Online Groceries
In today’s digital world, you aren’t limited to the stores in your immediate area. If you’ve exhausted every option mentioned, try exploring specialty or online grocery services.
- Order online – Many specialty grocery stores offer online ordering and delivery services. This is perfect if you’re looking for rare ingredients or items from your home country.
- Subscription boxes – There are food subscription boxes that cater to specific cuisines. These boxes can deliver hard-to-find products or special treats straight to your door.
- Check local shops for international sections – Some grocery stores have international sections that carry ingredients from various cultures. You might find that one special product you’ve been missing.
How to Find Your Comfort Foods After Moving
Moving to a new place doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your favourite foods forever. While it may take some time to find your comfort foods after moving, exploring local markets, making homemade versions, and connecting with food communities can help you adjust and find the flavours you love. And don’t forget to embrace the opportunity to discover new foods that may become your next comfort staples. In the end, it’s all about finding a balance between the familiar and the new in your culinary life.
Lynne is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, meal prep mastermind, wife and mother of three. Lynne’s dreams and creativity have brought Holistic Nutrition Hub to fruition so that all Nutrition Practitioners can better help their clients and attain their business goals.
