Winter blues tackled with classic dishes as Brits turn to food for comfort

The ultimate secret to surviving the colder months has been revealed, as new research shows food is the number one source of comfort. A poll of 2,000 adults found that a significant 58% make a conscious effort to lift their mood during the colder months. A lack of light and bad weather often leaves many Brits feeling low during the winter months. As a result, many actively seek out small moments of comfort, joy and surprise to break the monotony.

Popular mood boosters include sitting in front of the fire while it’s raining outside, booking something fun to look forward to like a gig or comedy show, and creating a vision board for the year ahead. But a massive 76% of Brits turn to hearty, warming dishes to lift their mood during winter.

The study, conducted by cheesemaker Boursin, found that a classic roast dinner remains the top comfort food, with soup (36%), cheese toasties (23%), and rich, creamy pasta (23%) also featuring high on the list.

This reliance on comforting classics is a daily ritual for a quarter (24%) of people, who reach for these meals to lift their spirits, particularly when it’s rainy and miserable outside.

Furthermore, four in 10 (41%) are spicing up their favourites by adding new twists, such as extra herbs and spices (38%), contrasting textures (27%), or different types of an ingredient they usually use (24%).

Responding to this trend, Boursin partnered with Michelin-trained chef Jack Blumenthal to surprise London commuters at Waterloo Station with elevated everyday comfort foods, all featuring a flavourful twist of Boursin Blue Cheese Flavour.

Jack Blumenthal said: “January can feel very predictable, so bringing surprise servings into a busy station is a way of reminding people that everyday moments can still feel special.

“These are proper comfort dishes – creamy soups, golden gooey croque monsieurs, and indulgent mac and cheese – familiar favourites made more irresistible with an unexpected twist of Boursin Blue Cheese Flavour. It’s smooth and delicate rather than overpowering, which makes it perfect for everyday cooking.”

A spokesperson for the brand said: “As dark commutes and cold evenings set in, it’s completely natural for people to seek small moments of joy to lift their mood, particularly during January.

“Our research shows many people are craving comforting, uplifting experiences, and we were delighted to bring a spark of joy to some of London’s commuters.

“We also found that over a quarter of people have never tried blue cheese, often because in its traditional form it can feel intimidating.

“Even the biggest of sceptics at Waterloo were pleasantly surprised by our creamy blue-cheese-inspired comfort dishes, designed for those curious about the flavour and showing that the ingredient is perfect for adding a delicious twist to everyday cooking.”