18 Soothing Pancreatitis Recipes for Recovery

Embarking on a journey to soothe your pancreas doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or joy in your meals! Our roundup of 18 Soothing Pancreatitis Recipes for Recovery is here to guide you through delicious, easy-to-make dishes that are as kind to your body as they are to your taste buds. Perfect for home cooks looking for comfort and care in every bite, these recipes promise to make recovery a little tastier. Let’s dive in!

Gentle Chicken and Rice Soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Gentle Chicken and Rice Soup to soothe the soul on a chilly evening. This recipe is a hug in a bowl, with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a broth that’s just the right kind of comforting.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
3. Pour in 6 cups chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in 1 cup white rice, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes, covered.
4. Add the shredded chicken, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. Simmer for another 5 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is heated through.
5. Stir in the chopped parsley just before serving.

The magic of this soup lies in the simplicity of its ingredients coming together to create a deeply flavorful and comforting dish. The fresh parsley adds a bright finish that lifts the entire bowl.

Tip: For an even richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it on hand.

Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions is a light, flavorful dish that brings the delicate taste of the sea right to your dinner table, with a zesty kick from fresh ginger and scallions.

Ingredients

• 1 whole white fish (about 1.5 lbs), cleaned and scaled
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 inch piece of ginger, julienned
• 3 scallions, cut into 2-inch lengths
• 1 tablespoon rice wine
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper

Instructions

1. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Make 3 diagonal cuts on each side of the fish to help it cook evenly.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine, sugar, salt, and white pepper. Brush this mixture all over the fish, including inside the cuts.
3. Stuff the cuts and the cavity of the fish with half of the ginger and scallions. Place the remaining ginger and scallions on top of the fish.
4. Prepare a steamer with enough water to steam for about 15 minutes without drying out. Bring the water to a boil.
5. Place the fish on a heatproof plate that fits inside the steamer. Steam the fish over high heat for 12-15 minutes, or until the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
6. Carefully remove the plate from the steamer. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the fish before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the steaming technique, which locks in the fish’s natural juices while infusing it with the aromatic flavors of ginger and scallions.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, heat a tablespoon of oil until smoking and pour it over the scallions and ginger on the fish just before serving.

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Olive Oil

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the simplicity of baked sweet potatoes, especially when they’re perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This recipe is a testament to how a few quality ingredients can create something truly special.

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Wash and dry the sweet potatoes thoroughly, then cut them into 1-inch wedges.
3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato wedges with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching for maximum crispiness.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, then flip each wedge and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy on the edges.

The magic of this recipe lies in the contrast between the caramelized edges and the creamy center of the sweet potatoes, making it a side dish that’s anything but ordinary.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle the baked sweet potatoes with a pinch of smoked paprika or drizzle with a little honey before serving.

Quinoa Porridge with Almond Milk

Start your morning with a bowl of this comforting Quinoa Porridge with Almond Milk, a nutritious twist on the classic breakfast that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups almond milk
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Fresh berries and sliced almonds for topping

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa, almond milk, water, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to thicken.
4. Serve warm, topped with fresh berries and sliced almonds.

This porridge stands out with its creamy texture and the subtle sweetness from maple syrup, making it a perfect start to any day.

Tip: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of almond milk before serving.

Soft Scrambled Eggs with Spinach

Start your morning with these creamy soft scrambled eggs, perfectly paired with fresh spinach for a nutritious and comforting breakfast.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and add the butter, allowing it to melt without browning.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it begins to wilt.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach. Using a spatula, gently stir the eggs continuously, scraping the bottom of the skillet to form soft curds.
5. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, removing the skillet from the heat as soon as the eggs are softly set but still slightly runny—they’ll finish cooking from the residual heat.

The key to this dish is the slow, gentle cooking that yields irresistibly creamy eggs, with the spinach adding a fresh, slightly earthy contrast.

Tip: For an extra touch of richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese during the last minute of cooking.

Oatmeal with Bananas and Honey

Start your morning with a bowl of comforting oatmeal, sweetened naturally with bananas and a drizzle of honey for that perfect touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 cups water
• 1 ripe banana, sliced
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Stir in 1 cup rolled oats and 1/4 tsp salt. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon and half of the sliced banana to the oatmeal. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the oatmeal is creamy and the banana begins to soften.
3. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute to thicken. Serve the oatmeal in bowls, topped with the remaining banana slices and a drizzle of 2 tbsp honey.

The combination of warm cinnamon, creamy banana, and sweet honey creates a comforting bowl that feels like a hug in the morning. The bananas add a natural sweetness and creaminess that makes this oatmeal irresistibly delicious.

Tip: For an extra creamy texture, swap water for milk or your favorite plant-based milk.

Pureed Carrot and Squash Soup

Warm up your kitchen with this velvety Pureed Carrot and Squash Soup, a hug in a bowl that’s as nutritious as it is comforting.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup coconut milk

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the carrots and squash to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the salt, black pepper, cumin, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Remove from heat and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender.
5. Stir in the coconut milk until fully incorporated and warm through over low heat for another 5 minutes.

The coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness and richness that makes this soup stand out, perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a little extra comfort.

Tip: For an extra smooth texture, strain the soup after blending to remove any remaining fibers.

Boiled Chicken with Herbs

There’s something incredibly comforting about a simple boiled chicken, especially when it’s infused with the aromatic flavors of fresh herbs. This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, letting the natural flavors shine through.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 2 carrots, cut into large chunks
• 2 celery stalks, cut into large chunks
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 bunch fresh thyme
• 1 bunch fresh parsley
• 8 cups water

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, salt, peppercorns, bay leaves, thyme, and parsley. Pour in the water to cover the chicken completely.
2. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 1 hour, skimming any foam that rises to the surface.
3. After 1 hour, remove the pot from the heat and let the chicken rest in the broth for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become even more tender.
4. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly before carving. Serve with the strained broth and your choice of sides.

The magic of this dish lies in the broth, which becomes a fragrant, golden elixir packed with the essence of herbs and vegetables. It’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

Tip: Save the broth for soups or risottos—it’s too good to waste!

Mashed Cauliflower with Garlic

Looking for a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This creamy Mashed Cauliflower with Garlic is a game-changer, offering all the comfort with a fraction of the carbs.

Ingredients

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Steam the cauliflower florets in a large pot with a steamer basket over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until very tender.
2. While the cauliflower is steaming, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a food processor. Add the garlic butter mixture, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Process until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with 1 tablespoon of fresh chives.

The secret to its velvety texture? Processing the cauliflower while it’s still warm ensures a smoother mash, making it indistinguishable from its potato counterpart.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, roast the garlic before adding it to the mash. It deepens the garlic’s sweetness and adds a subtle complexity to the dish.

Steamed Pumpkin with Cinnamon

Steamed Pumpkin with Cinnamon is a simple yet delightful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of pumpkin, enhanced with a warm spice that feels like a hug in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, toss the pumpkin cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt until evenly coated.
2. Place the pumpkin in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 15-20 minutes, until the pumpkin is tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Transfer the steamed pumpkin to a serving dish. Let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld together.

The magic of this dish lies in how the cinnamon elevates the pumpkin’s sweetness without overpowering it, creating a perfectly balanced side that’s as nutritious as it is comforting.

Tip: For an extra touch of warmth, sprinkle a little more cinnamon on top before serving.

Lentil Soup with Turmeric

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Lentil Soup with Turmeric, a hearty dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, and 1 teaspoon ground cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add 1 cup dried green lentils, 4 cups vegetable broth, and 1 bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in 2 tablespoons lemon juice before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright finish.

The golden hue from turmeric not only makes this soup visually appealing but also adds a subtle earthiness that complements the lentils perfectly.

Tip: For an extra creamy texture, blend half the soup before adding the lemon juice.

Baked Apples with Cinnamon

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of baked apples wafting through your kitchen, especially when they’re spiced with cinnamon. This simple yet comforting dish is a testament to the magic of minimal ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

Ingredients

• 4 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Core the apples from the top, leaving the bottom intact to hold the filling.
2. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Stuff each apple with this mixture, then top with pieces of 2 tablespoons unsalted butter.
3. Place the apples in a baking dish and pour 1/2 cup water around them to prevent sticking and add moisture.
4. Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, until the apples are tender but not mushy, and the filling is bubbly.

The contrast between the soft, cinnamon-spiced apple and the crisp skin is what makes this dish stand out. It’s a humble dessert that feels indulgent with every bite.

Tip: For an extra touch of luxury, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

White Fish with Steamed Zucchini

Light, flaky white fish meets tender steamed zucchini in this simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), about 6 oz each
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tbsp of the olive oil.
2. Arrange the zucchini rounds in a single layer in the prepared dish. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp of the salt, 1/8 tsp of the black pepper, and 1/4 tsp of the garlic powder.
3. Place the fish fillets on top of the zucchini. Season the fish with the remaining 1/4 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder. Drizzle with lemon juice.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the zucchini is tender.
5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in how the zucchini absorbs the flavors of the fish and seasonings, creating a harmonious blend of tastes with minimal effort.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini before baking.

Avocado and Banana Smoothie

Start your morning with a creamy, dreamy Avocado and Banana Smoothie that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
• 1 large banana, peeled
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the avocado, banana, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
3. Add the ice cubes and blend again until the smoothie is thick and frosty, about 30 seconds more.
4. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

The combination of avocado and banana creates a luxuriously smooth texture that’s both refreshing and satisfying, making it a perfect pick-me-up any time of day.

Tip: For an extra protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder before blending.

Rice Pudding with Coconut Milk

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy rice pudding, especially when it’s made with rich coconut milk for a tropical twist.

Ingredients

• 1 cup short-grain white rice
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, whole milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for 25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking, until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
4. Let the pudding sit for 5 minutes to thicken further. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with shredded coconut if desired.

The coconut milk not only adds a luxurious creaminess but also a subtle sweetness that makes this rice pudding stand out from the traditional version.

Tip: For an extra touch of indulgence, toast the shredded coconut garnish in a dry pan over medium heat until golden before sprinkling it on top.

Steamed Chicken Dumplings

These steamed chicken dumplings are a cozy, flavorful twist on a classic, perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 2 cups finely chopped cabbage
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 package (about 30) round dumpling wrappers
• Water for steaming

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground chicken, 2 cups finely chopped cabbage, 3 thinly sliced green onions, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp sugar, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Wet the edges with water, fold over to form a half-moon shape, and press to seal, pleating the edges if desired.
3. Arrange dumplings in a single layer in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Ensure they are not touching to allow for even cooking.
4. Steam over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, until the dumpling wrappers are translucent and the filling is cooked through.

The magic of these dumplings lies in their juicy filling and the delicate, slightly chewy wrapper that holds it all together—a texture contrast that’s simply irresistible.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, serve with a dipping sauce made of equal parts soy sauce and rice vinegar, with a dash of chili oil.

Herbal Tea with Lemon and Honey

There’s nothing quite like a soothing cup of herbal tea with lemon and honey to warm you up from the inside out. This simple yet flavorful blend is perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 1 herbal tea bag (such as chamomile or peppermint)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 thin slice of lemon (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small saucepan or kettle.
2. Place the herbal tea bag in a mug and pour the boiling water over it. Let steep for 5 minutes, then remove the tea bag.
3. Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of honey until the honey is fully dissolved.
4. Garnish with a thin slice of lemon on the rim of the mug for an extra touch of freshness.

The combination of herbal tea with the bright acidity of lemon and the natural sweetness of honey creates a perfectly balanced drink that’s both comforting and invigorating.

Tip: For an extra soothing effect, try adding a cinnamon stick or a few slices of fresh ginger to the boiling water before steeping the tea.

Soft Tofu with Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil

Soft tofu with soy sauce and sesame oil is a minimalist dish that lets the delicate flavors shine, perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) soft tofu
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Carefully remove the tofu from its package and drain any excess water. Place it on a serving plate.
2. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil evenly over the tofu.
3. Sprinkle the sesame seeds and green onion on top.
4. Serve immediately, allowing the flavors to meld together as you enjoy.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the contrast between the silky tofu and the bold, savory toppings.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil before serving.

Conclusion

We hope these 18 soothing pancreatitis recipes bring comfort and nourishment to your recovery journey. Each dish is crafted with care to support your health while delighting your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, or pin this article on Pinterest for later. Happy cooking, and here’s to your healing!