### Cooking for Recovery - [ Related Recipes](#related-recipes) In Memory of Spencer Streetman Chef, Friend, Brother, Son Spencer's passion for cooking inspired the Cooking for Recovery program at BMC ![Chef Spencer in front of a range with two pans and a large flame. ](/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-12-09%20at%2011.33.17%20AM_0.png)## About: Nutrition can play a key role in the treatment and recovery process for individuals with substance use disorder. Both drugs and alcohol impact how the body metabolizes food, and an individual's ability to absorb nutrients. Malnutrition, common in individuals with SUD, can increase drug-seeking behavior. Weight gain and sugar cravings are very common during recovery, as are eating disorders and substance substitution (sugar, caffeine, nicotine). Cooking for Recovery aims to enhance participants' self-care tool box through nutrition education, addressing body-image concerns, and teaching life-skills such as meal planning and preparing balanced meals and snacks on a budget. Cooking For Recovery has been written about in[ HealthCity](https://healthcity.bmc.org/finding-joy-food-how-cooking-others-can-bolster-recovery/) and at [Boston.com](https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2018/04/01/at-boston-medical-center-cooking-classes-aim-to-restore-health-after-addiction/). ***"It was so wonderful for us to be able to join you today and to see first-hand what you do everyday to truly help so many. It is hard to express our gratitude for making our dream of finding a way to honor Spencer a reality. I know that he would have loved to see the camaraderie and enthusiasm in today's class. You both have offered a space for acceptance and recognition, relaxation and fun, as well as lots of learning."*** ***- Kim, Richard, Annie, and Mark*** ## Partners: [The Spencer Streetman Memorial Fund](https://www.spencersfund.com/) - a very special thank-you to the Streetman family for their generous support of the Cooking for Recovery program. [EMO Health](https://www.emo.health/) [Grayken Center for Addiction](https://www.bmc.org/addiction) [Back On My Feet](https://backonmyfeet.org/) ## Schedule: Once a month on Wednesdays, we have class from 10:30-12:30 for START clinic patients. Bi-monthly on Tuesday evenings from 5-6:15 we have a class for CATALYST clinic patients. We are piloting an English and Spanish language series with our partners, Back on My Feet, beginning in October 24. **We have run groups at:** - Hope House - Stepping Stones - Monarch House (SEMCOA) - Harmony House (SEMCOA) - Glenice Sheehan Women’s Recovery Home (Lowell House) - Men’s Recovery Home (Lowell House) - Wyman Recovery Home (BPHC) - Transitions (BPHC) ## Collaborate: **Interested in a Cooking for Recovery group class at your residential facility, in our Teaching Kitchen, or through zoom?** We would love to hear from you. Please contact us at . ## Give: If you would like to donate to the Cooking for Recovery program in honor of Spencer Streetman: 1. Visit the [Make A Donation](https://development.bmc.org/?form=give-dev&package_id=FY26_AF_dev_bmc_org5) web page 2. Under "Gift Designation" select "Other" 3. Under "Other Designation" write "Preventive Food Pantry in honor of Spencer Streetman" ## Related Recipes ### [Egg Muffins ](/nourishing-our-community/teaching-kitchen/recipes/egg-muffins) Egg muffins are a good make-ahead breakfast or snack. They are easy to take on-the-go, and rich in... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/16665454617_ca67b57a03_c.jpg?itok=xUnHD6R9) ### [Lemony Kale Salad](/recipes/lemony-kale-salad) Cheese, lemon and crunchy seeds elevate kale to the next level! The key to this salad is massaging... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Recipes/2020/dan-gold-9cLqqUkUpJo-unsplash.jpg?itok=-j_KYs5v) ### [Baked Kale Chips](/recipes/baked-kale-chips) Don't you every crave some crunchy chips? Having kale chips on hand satisfies that crunch craving... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Recipes/2020/kale-chips.jpg?itok=h3xk3Z-x) ### [Grilled Spice-Rubbed Chicken Tacos](/recipes/grilled-spice-rubbed-chicken-tacos) If you think grilled chicken breast can be bland, and you love big flavors, this is a recipe for you... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Recipes/2020/chicken-taco.jpg?itok=zHQXSc6U) ### [Black Bean & Turkey Chili](/recipes/black-bean-turkey-chili) The simmering is what brings this chili together, allowing all the flavors to mingle. What a perfect... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Recipes/2020/chili.jpg?itok=J8Xw7lEg) ### [Banana Oat Pancakes ](/recipes/banana-oat-pancakes) These pancakes are packed with vitamins, minerals fiber and more! If you don't have an ingredient... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Recipes/2020/Pancakes-A.jpg?itok=hRf9--vG) ### [Turkey Mushroom Burgers With Sweet Potatoes ](/recipes/turkey-mushroom-burgers-sweet-potatoes) Here you have three recipes in one to make a delicious meal. Serve with a simple green salad... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Recipes/2020/Turkey-Mushrrom-Burger.jpg?itok=zV0dXpPu) ### [Sweet Potato Brownies ](/recipes/sweet-potato-brownies) These are delicious and extremely moist, flour-free brownies. Give this is a try if you cannot eat... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/IMG_4922.JPG?itok=7DmF2-rm) ### [Thai Peanut Brown Rice Bowl ](/recipes/thai-peanut-brown-rice-bowl) Brown rice is a whole grain, so it contains fiber, B vitamins, and healthy fats. The peanut butter... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Recipes/2020/Brown-Rice-Bowl.jpg?itok=o0XQPazZ) ### [Shrimp and Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai ](/recipes/shrimp-and-zucchini-noodle-pad-thai) This recipe uses zucchini noodles instead of regular and includes a lot of vegetables, so is packed... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/shrimppadthai.png?itok=vKq_0TOl) ### [Spinach Turkey Burgers with Strawberry Salad](/recipes/spinach-turkey-burgers-strawberry-salad) Customize this meal with your choice of ground meat/poultry (we recommend turkey or chicken), your... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Spinach%20Turkey%20Burger%20With%20Strawberry%20Salad.jpeg?itok=StWzLLzY) ### [Vegan Pea Pesto With Cherry Tomatoes and Lentil Pasta ](/recipes/vegan-pea-pesto-cherry-tomatoes-and-lentil-pasta) This pasta is great for lunch or dinner and is packed with fiber. ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/PeaPestowithLentilPasta_Lunch_Dinner.jpeg?itok=eqpzQlNT) ### [Brown Rice Salad and With Lemon Dressing ](/recipes/brown-rice-salad-and-lemon-dressing) This is truly a framework recipe, meaning you can use whatever fresh herbs and summer vegetables you... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Screen%20Shot%202021-10-13%20at%201.41.00%20PM.png?itok=zfTStwCD) ### [Kale Salad with Hummus dressing](/recipes/kale-salad-hummus-dressing) Enjoy this salad in the summer! It is packed with fiber and nutrients. Satiety guaranteed! ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Kale%20and%20Hummus%20Salad%20.jpeg?itok=i2592VjW) ### [Anything Tacos With Fresh Salsa ](/recipes/anything-tacos-fresh-salsa) This flexible recipes allows you to use any protein you like, any spice blend you like, and any... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Screen%20Shot%202021-10-21%20at%201.13.23%20PM.png?itok=7qvABRXz) ### [Avocado Chicken Salad with Baked Plantain Chips ](/recipes/avocado-chicken-salad-baked-plantain-chips) Plantains are are widely used in South America, Central America and the Caribbean as a side or snack... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/avocadochicken.png?itok=RQfFZ9su) ### [Yogurt Bread](/recipes/yogurt-bread) ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/7246c562-0c7d-4633-8a0c-08a4389f6a98/shutterstock_304751963?io=transform:fill,width:320,height:320&format=jpg) ### [Chickpea Burger With Collard Greens ](/recipes/chickpea-burger-collard-greens) Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein and a great substitute for animal protein. This meal... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Recipes/2020/Chickpea-Burger-with-Watermelon-Fetta.jpg?itok=6y1yct2y) ### [Vegetarian Grain Bowl ](/recipes/vegetarian-grain-bowl) This is one of our recipe frameworks, which gives you the flexibility to use ingredients that you... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Recipes/2020/Quinoa-bowl-roasted-chickpea-vegetables.jpg?itok=FTLxQXYz) ### [Grilled Chicken with Succotash ](/recipes/grilled-chicken-succotash) Succotash is a Native American dish that has become a popular summer dish today, using corn... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Recipes/2020/Succotash.jpg?itok=ycRrHbQP) ### [Nigerian Meatballs ](/recipes/nigerian-meatballs) A variety of spices such as cinnamon, ginger and cumin give this meatball dish a zing! Flavorful but... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/fidel-fernando-6eCpa9J3c_c-unsplash.jpg?itok=zy-jadNV) ### [Pumpkin Pancakes ](/recipes/pumpkin-pancakes) Could you use sweet potato puree or mash up a cooked sweet potato and sub it for pumpkin? Sure could... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Screen%20Shot%202021-09-29%20at%2012.08.10%20PM.png?itok=nNLM8TU9) ### [Pita with Tzatziki Sauce ](/recipes/pita-tzatziki-sauce) Pita and tzatziki is a delicious snack from the Mediterranean region that originated from the... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/pita.jpg?itok=PJnfUJBO) ### [Pita Sandwich with Tzatziki Sauce ](/recipes/pita-sandwich-tzatziki-sauce) ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/pita.jpg?itok=PJnfUJBO) ### [Grain Bowl (FRAMEWORK)](/recipes/grain-bowl-framework) A grain bowl is really just a salad, with vegetables, greens and grains, as well as a protein choice... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/grainbowl.png?itok=5SpHKaky) ### [Popcorn](/recipes/popcorn) Homemade popcorn is easy to make, and can be a healthy snack when made with a small amount of oil... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/georgia-vagim-ny-lHmsHYHk-unsplash.jpg?itok=5r35eGEt) ### [Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal ](/recipes/peanut-butter-banana-oatmeal) Peanut butter, bananas and milk contain a nutrient called tyrosine, that helps the brain to build... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Screen%20Shot%202023-03-09%20at%202.39.02%20PM.png?itok=Ptn-hSUo) ### [Microwave Ground Turkey](/recipes/microwave-ground-turkey) This quick and easy recipe is a great source of protein and low in saturated fat. It can be easily... ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/7246c562-0c7d-4633-8a0c-08a4389f6a98/shutterstock_304751963?io=transform:fill,width:320,height:320&format=jpg) ### [Microwave Rice](/recipes/microwave-rice) Rice pairs well with many of the recipes in the BMC Teaching Kitchen. Parboiled rice is a partially... ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/7246c562-0c7d-4633-8a0c-08a4389f6a98/shutterstock_304751963?io=transform:fill,width:320,height:320&format=jpg) ### [Microwave Chili ](/recipes/microwave-chili) ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/IMG_4041.jpg?itok=hW4wZ93B) ### [Microwave Chicken and Egg Fried Rice](/recipes/microwave-chicken-and-egg-fried-rice) This is an easy to make recipe that provides a great combination of proteins and carbohydrates... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/IMG_4047.jpg?itok=JhdNSt1r) ### [Microwave Sweet Potato](/recipes/microwave-sweet-potato) Sweet potatoes are high in vitamins A (an antioxidant and important vitamin for nighttime vision)... ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/7246c562-0c7d-4633-8a0c-08a4389f6a98/shutterstock_304751963?io=transform:fill,width:320,height:320&format=jpg) ### [Peach Crisp](/recipes/peach-crisp) Peaches are packed with nutrients and antioxidants. This is tasty and also nutrient-rich, with fruit... ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/7246c562-0c7d-4633-8a0c-08a4389f6a98/shutterstock_304751963?io=transform:fill,width:320,height:320&format=jpg) ### [Air Fryer Sheet Pan Dinner with Chicken ](/recipes/air-fryer-sheet-pan-dinner-chicken) This is a one pan dish that provides a fully balanced meal: protein, starch, and your non-starchy... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/IMG_4046.jpg?itok=K6lh5s8t) ### [Air fryer Sheet Pan Dinner with Fish ](/recipes/air-fryer-sheet-pan-dinner-fish) This is a one pan dish that provides a fully balanced meal: protein, starch, and your non-starchy... ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/7246c562-0c7d-4633-8a0c-08a4389f6a98/shutterstock_304751963?io=transform:fill,width:320,height:320&format=jpg) ### [Microwave Baked Potato](/recipes/microwave-baked-potato) Potatoes are a great source of carbohydrate that fuels our bodies with energy. This is an easy and... ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/7246c562-0c7d-4633-8a0c-08a4389f6a98/shutterstock_304751963?io=transform:fill,width:320,height:320&format=jpg) ### [Baked Potato](/recipes/baked-potato) Potatoes are a great source of carbohydrate that fuels our bodies with energy. This is an easy and... ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/7246c562-0c7d-4633-8a0c-08a4389f6a98/shutterstock_304751963?io=transform:fill,width:320,height:320&format=jpg) ### [Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette ](/recipes/cilantro-lime-vinaigrette) Fresh herbs make a flavorful, bright, and nutritious addition to any salad dressing. Don't like... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Untitled%20design%20%2813%29.png?itok=4qcGsh0E) ### [Tortilla Pizza](/recipes/tortilla-pizza) Enjoy the pleasure of pizza without making the dough! This pizza takes just 5-10 minutes in the oven... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Screen%20Shot%202023-08-25%20at%203.14.21%20PM.png?itok=61eKUBbS) ### [Mixed Berry Smoothie](/recipes/mixed-berry-smoothie) Refreshing, cool, and slightly sweet, this smoothie will win you over. With just 15 grams of... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Eat%20Well.%20Live%20Your%20Life%20%281%29.png?itok=JVRm0vPl) ### [Simple Slaw](/recipes/simple-slaw) Crunchy, fresh and colorful, this slaw makes a delicious side dish. You can also mix it into a salad... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/image2.jpeg?itok=no6NxXtk) ### [Sicilian Baked Fish](/recipes/sicilian-baked-fish) Sicilian Baked Fish is a light yet flavorful Mediterranean dish featuring halibut or haddock baked... ![](https://www.bmc.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_320w/public/Screenshot%202025-09-18%20at%205.36.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?itok=LJ4B9x9v)