Gastroparesis can make everyday meals a challenge. The condition, characterized by delayed gastric emptying, can leave you feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and even exhausted after eating. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or satisfaction. In fact, there are many recipes that can help ease digestion while still providing the nutrients your body needs.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 soothing gastroparesis recipes designed to make mealtime more manageable and enjoyable. From pureed soups to blended breakfasts, these gentle dishes use ingredients like coconut milk, avocado, and oatmeal to create creamy textures that are easy on the stomach. We’ll start with a few breakfast ideas, including Soft Scrambled Eggs with Cream Cheese and Blended Oatmeal with Banana and Honey. These recipes not only taste great but also provide important protein and fiber for a nutritious start to the day.
Pureed Butternut Squash Soup
This warm and comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet butternut squash, aromatic spices, and creamy texture. It’s an ideal recipe for a cozy evening or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (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, cut side up, and drizzle with butter. Roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
4. Scoop the cooked squash into a blender or food processor. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Transfer the mixture to a pot and add chicken broth and heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Soft Scrambled Eggs with Cream Cheese
Start your day off right with these creamy, soft-scrambled eggs infused with the tanginess of cream cheese. This simple recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped herbs (such as chives or parsley) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently push the cooked eggs towards the center of the skillet, allowing the uncooked egg to flow to the edges.
5. Repeat this process for about 2-3 minutes, until the eggs are just set and still moist.
6. Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Blended Oatmeal with Banana and Honey
Start your day off right with a deliciously creamy and sweet blended oatmeal. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of banana, the richness of honey, and the comforting warmth of oats for a breakfast that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of your choice)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine oats, banana, honey, and almond milk.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add a pinch of salt and blend for an additional 10 seconds.
4. Pour into a bowl and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Coconut Milk
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich creaminess of coconut milk, creating a delicious and unique side dish perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your meals to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil the sweet potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain the sweet potatoes and add them to a blender or food processor with the unsweetened shredded coconut, full-fat coconut milk, and butter.
4. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Silky Smooth Peanut Butter Yogurt
This creamy treat combines the richness of peanut butter with the tanginess of yogurt, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt, peanut butter, and honey until smooth.
2. Add the vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt or a few chopped peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including chilling time)
Steamed Carrot and Ginger Puree
A deliciously healthy and flavorful puree that’s perfect as a side dish or used as a base for other recipes. This Steamed Carrot and Ginger Puree is a great way to add some excitement to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped carrots and ginger in a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 15-20 minutes or until the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Transfer the cooked carrot and ginger mixture to a blender or food processor.
5. Add the water and blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gentle Chicken and Rice Congee
This comforting congee recipe is a gentle take on traditional Chinese rice porridge, infused with tender chicken and subtle flavors to soothe the soul. Perfect for a warm and nourishing meal any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine cooked rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add chicken, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the congee has thickened slightly.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Avocado and Cottage Cheese Blend
A refreshing and healthy snack or breakfast option that combines the creamy richness of avocado with the tanginess of cottage cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or dill)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the mashed avocado and cottage cheese.
2. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt to taste.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to eat in just a few minutes.
Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Honey
Warm Up with Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Honey
As the seasons change, a warm and comforting dessert like baked apples is just what you need to cozy up. This simple recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the spices of cinnamon and honey for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baking apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Core the apples, leaving the top intact.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, cinnamon, and honey until well combined.
4. Stuff each apple with the cinnamon mixture, dividing it evenly among the apples.
5. Place the apples in a baking dish, leaving some space between them for even cooking.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt if desired (optional).
Serve warm, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if you like!
Lentil and Vegetable Puree
Nourishing and delicious, this Lentil and Vegetable Puree recipe is a perfect blend of protein-packed lentils, tender vegetables, and subtle spices. With its creamy texture and mild flavor, it’s an excellent option for a healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and zucchini to the pot. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Serve hot, with olive oil drizzled on top if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tofu and Spinach Smoothie
Kick-start your day with a refreshing and nutritious Tofu and Spinach Smoothie, packed with protein and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the crumbled tofu, spinach leaves, sliced banana, Greek yogurt, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– Use frozen spinach if fresh is not available.
– Add ice cubes for a thicker, colder smoothie.
– Experiment with different fruits like berries or mango to change up the flavor.
Pumpkin and Rice Porridge
As the weather cools down, a warm and comforting bowl of porridge is just what you need to cozy up with. This recipe combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the creaminess of rice, perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, pumpkin puree, and water or broth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the porridge has thickened slightly.
4. Add salt and honey (if using) to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Poached Salmon with Dill Sauce
This delicate salmon dish is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. The soft poaching technique preserves the fish’s natural flavor, while the dill sauce adds a bright and tangy touch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh dill leaves
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine water, white wine vinegar, and sugar. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and add salmon fillets. Poach for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Remove fish from poaching liquid and set aside.
5. In a blender, puree fresh dill leaves, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve soft-poached salmon with the chilled dill sauce spooned over.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana and Almond Butter Smoothie
A creamy and nutritious smoothie that combines the sweetness of banana with the nutty flavor of almond butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, almond butter, Greek yogurt, and almond milk.
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 want a thicker consistency or a colder temperature.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie reaches your desired texture.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy!
Pureed Cauliflower with Parmesan
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet impressive recipe that showcases the natural sweetness of cauliflower. This creamy puree is perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut into florets and place on a baking sheet. Drizzle with butter and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Transfer to a blender or food processor with heavy cream or half-and-half, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more cream if needed to achieve desired consistency.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef and Barley Stew
This comforting stew is perfect for a chilly day, with tender beef, nutty barley, and rich flavors that simmer all day long. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, brown the beef in a little oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover and simmer on low for 8-10 hours or transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (stovetop) or 6-8 hours (slow cooker)
Vanilla Chia Pudding with Almond Milk
This recipe makes a deliciously healthy snack or breakfast treat using the nutritious benefits of chia seeds and almond milk. With only a few simple steps, you can create a creamy and flavorful pudding that’s perfect for anyone looking to start their day off right.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chia seeds and soak them in almond milk for at least 30 minutes.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract and honey (if using).
3. Refrigerate the mixture for 2 hours or overnight to allow it to thicken.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced fruit or nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Steamed Zucchini and Herb Puree
This simple yet flavorful recipe makes a great side dish or light lunch. The steaming process preserves the zucchini’s nutrients, while the herb puree adds a burst of fresh flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch slices and place them in the steamer basket.
3. Steam for 4-5 minutes or until tender.
4. In a blender, combine the cooled zucchini, Greek yogurt, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 soothing recipes designed to ease digestion for those living with gastroparesis. These easy-to-make dishes use gentle ingredients and blending techniques to create smooth, comforting meals that are easy on the stomach. From classic comfort foods like butternut squash soup and mashed sweet potatoes, to innovative blends like peanut butter yogurt and avocado cottage cheese, these recipes offer a range of options for managing gastroparesis symptoms. Say goodbye to digestive discomfort and hello to a world of flavorful, gentle eating with these 18 soothing recipes.
