Home-Cooked Recipes Gaining Popularity Online: The Comfort of Simple Meals Returns

There was a time when everyone was excited to try the trendiest restaurant dish or make a recipe that went viral from a cute café. Recently, though, something beautiful has been bubbling up — people are falling back in love with food made at home. Social media is full of pictures of basic, comforting meals like dal-chawal, roti-sabzi, and even the famous chutney recipe from grandma.

It is no longer about eating just for the sake of it. For many, cooking has become a way to slow down, reconnect to their heritage and background, and bring family together.

What is causing the trend towards home-style cooking?

The movement toward cooked meals started in lockdown, when restaurant dining was not an option, and people had no choice but to cook at home. What began as a necessity turned into a passion, and many loved learning how to make a dish passed down generation after generation, while others got into the stubborn habit of experimenting with simple, dependable meals.

A big part of the trend has been people’s concern for the quality of their own health. We see many people are more thoughtful about what they eat, especially preferring whole foods at home over packaged or fast food. And it is nice knowing what you put on your plate, rather than relying on corporate practices.

Food Creators Bringing Meals Back to the Table

Social media has played an important part in bringing this trend back. Influencers such as Nisha Madhulika, Kabita’s Kitchen and Ranveer Brar have millions of followers based on their easy, home-style recipes. And their videos are not about perfection but authenticity.

The creators encourage people to prepare meals that range from lunchbox ideas to festive sweets and show that cooking is not daunting. The best part is they make viewers feel like anyone, even people who don’t spend much time in the kitchen, can make great meals at home.

More Than Food, A Connection

Home-cooked meals have become more than just food; they have become a source of comfort and identity. Each meal has a backstory — family, culture, and love. Cooking at home is often a sentimental event, where meals remind them of childhood memories or meals around the dining room table.

As our world is on the go, people are once again realising that happiness can come from something as simple as a warmed and real meal made with dedication and love.