Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel condition, can cause persistent abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition. While medication and medical treatment are essential in managing symptoms, a balanced diet rich in nutrients can also play a crucial role in alleviating discomfort. In this article, we’ll explore 18 soothing recipes that cater to the dietary needs of those living with Crohn’s disease. These gentle-on-the-stomach dishes will help you nourish your body without exacerbating symptoms.
From protein-rich fish and poultry dishes to comforting soups and starchy carbohydrates, our recipe collection offers a variety of options to suit different tastes and nutritional requirements. Whether you’re in the midst of a flare-up or looking for ways to maintain a healthy gut, these 18 recipes will provide you with the inspiration and guidance you need to take control of your diet.
Baked Salmon with Steamed Carrots and Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. This recipe combines the flaky goodness of baked salmon with the tender sweetness of steamed carrots and creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lbs baby carrots
– 3-4 large potatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets on it.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and squeeze with lemon juice.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, steam the carrots in a steamer basket over boiling water for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
6. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain and mash with butter and milk.
Cooking Time:
– Salmon: 12-15 minutes
– Carrots: 10-12 minutes
– Potatoes: 15-20 minutes
Low-Fiber Banana Oatmeal
A comforting and gentle start to your day, this low-fiber banana oatmeal is perfect for those with sensitive stomachs or dietary restrictions. With only 2g of fiber per serving, this recipe is a great option for those looking to reduce their fiber intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Mash the banana in a separate bowl until smooth.
4. Once the oats are cooked, add the mashed banana and honey (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Scrambled Eggs with White Toast
Start your day off right with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines the creamiest scrambled eggs with crispy white toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of white bread
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until they’re well-beaten.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over low heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for about 30 seconds, or until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently scramble the eggs, breaking them up into soft curds. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. While the eggs are cooking, toast the white bread until it’s lightly browned and crispy.
6. Serve the scrambled eggs on top of the toasted bread.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Pureed Butternut Squash Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect comfort food for chilly days. Roasted butternut squash and aromatic spices come together to create a deliciously smooth and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
4. Let the squash cool slightly, then scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
5. Add chopped onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the blender.
6. Blend until smooth, adding broth as needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. If using heavy cream or half-and-half, stir it in just before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes roasting time)
Boiled Chicken with White Rice
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat. This recipe yields a tender chicken dish served alongside fluffy white rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and place it in a large pot or stockpot.
2. Add the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the white rice according to package instructions. Typically, this involves combining the rice with an equal amount of water in a saucepan, bringing to a boil, then reducing the heat and simmering for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before serving with the white rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Peeled and Steamed Applesauce
This classic recipe yields a deliciously tender and flavorful applesauce with minimal effort. Perfect for snacking, baking, or as a healthy topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples (any variety, peeled)
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peeled apples under cold running water to remove any remaining pulp.
2. Place the apple pieces into a large saucepan or steamer basket.
3. Add the water and lemon juice (if using) to the saucepan.
4. Cover the saucepan with a lid or steam basket lid, ensuring all the apples are submerged in liquid.
5. Steam the apples over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gentle Tofu and Rice Congee
This comforting congee is a gentle and soothing meal perfect for any time of day. With the creamy texture of tofu and the subtle flavors of rice, this dish is sure to calm your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Optional: scallions, soy sauce, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the tofu cubes and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Pour in the cooked rice and water or broth. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the congee has reached your desired consistency.
7. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Cod with Mashed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender steamed cod paired with velvety mashed sweet potatoes. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with water boiling.
2. Rinse the cod fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and place in the steamer basket.
3. Steam the cod for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While the cod is cooking, boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender.
5. Drain the sweet potatoes and mash with butter, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the steamed cod atop mashed sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Avocado and Banana Smoothie
Revitalize your morning with a nutritious and delicious blend of avocados and bananas. This smoothie is packed with healthy fats, fiber, and natural sweetness for a quick and satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, avocado, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency or want to chill the smoothie further.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the desired texture is reached.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Boiled Egg Whites with Plain Toast
A simple yet satisfying snack or light meal that’s perfect for a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 egg whites
– Salt (optional)
– 2 slices of plain toast
Instructions:
1. Place the egg whites in a saucepan and add a pinch of salt if desired.
2. Cover the pan with a lid and bring the water to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the whites are set and no longer runny.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
6. Serve the boiled egg whites on top of the toast.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Enjoy your protein-packed snack!
Skinless Roasted Turkey with White Pasta
This classic comfort food dish combines the juiciest roasted turkey with a creamy white pasta sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 lbs) skinless turkey breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz white pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
6. In a separate saucepan, combine chicken broth and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Stir in butter until melted and smooth.
8. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy sauce and serve alongside roasted turkey.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes – 2 hours
Steamed Zucchini and Yellow Squash
This simple recipe highlights the natural sweetness of zucchini and yellow squash, perfect as a side dish or a light snack. With minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and nutritious treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 medium-sized yellow squash
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt to taste (optional)
– Fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the zucchini and yellow squash under cold running water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Place the vegetables in a steamer basket over boiling water.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 8-10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste (if desired).
5. Garnish with fresh herbs, if using.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lactose-Free Yogurt with Honey
A sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings, this lactose-free yogurt with honey is a delightful dessert or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lactose-free plain yogurt (such as soy or coconut-based)
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the lactose-free yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. If desired, add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
3. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or a single serving container.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (just mix and chill!)
Pureed Pumpkin and Coconut Milk Soup
This Pureed Pumpkin and Coconut Milk Soup is a deliciously comforting fall treat that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a Thanksgiving gathering. The addition of coconut milk adds a rich and creamy texture to the classic pumpkin soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), cooked and pureed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the pureed pumpkin, coconut milk, broth, and cumin. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Soft-Cooked Green Beans with Olive Oil
In just a few minutes, you can transform green beans into a flavorful and healthy side dish. This simple recipe highlights the natural sweetness of green beans by cooking them in olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large saucepan with about an inch of water and bring to a boil.
2. Add the green beans to the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Drain the green beans in a colander and immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop cooking.
4. Once cooled, drain the green beans again and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add the green beans to the skillet and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender and coated with olive oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked White Fish with Steamed Parsnips
A classic combination that’s both flavorful and healthy! This recipe yields a moist and flaky fish, paired with perfectly cooked parsnips.
Ingredients:
– 4 white fish fillets (cod or tilapia work well)
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika evenly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, steam the parsnip pieces in a separate pot with 2 cups of water until tender (about 10-12 minutes).
7. Serve the baked fish with steamed parsnips.
Cooking Time:
– Fish: 12-15 minutes
– Parsnips: 10-12 minutes
Peeled and Steamed Pear Compote
This simple recipe transforms fresh pears into a deliciously sweet and tender compote, perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe pears (any variety), peeled, cored, and halved
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Place the pear halves in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the sugar, water, and salt to the pears.
3. Cover the saucepan with a lid and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the pears are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plain Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
This classic recipe yields a creamy and aromatic pudding that’s perfect as a dessert or a comforting snack. The addition of cinnamon adds a warm and inviting flavor to this simple yet satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened and the rice is cooked.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cinnamon. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
If you’re living with Crohn disease, finding recipes that soothe your digestive issues can be a challenge. This article offers 18 gentle and easy-to-digest recipes to help alleviate symptoms. From baked salmon with steamed carrots and mashed potatoes to pureed butternut squash soup, these dishes are designed to minimize fiber and discomfort while still being delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for comfort foods like soft scrambled eggs or soothing soups like pureed pumpkin and coconut milk, this collection of recipes is perfect for those seeking relief from Crohn disease.
