The COVID-19 pandemic has made eating in an everyday occurrence across the country, but for cancer patients who often have unique nutritional needs, at-home meal preparations can be particularly challenging. Fortunately, culinary experts at the OSUCCC – James are here to help with tips and easy-to-prepare recipes that can help cancer patients and caregivers get the most out of their homemade meals and snacks. “In The James Instructional Kitchen, we work with patients, outpatients and caregivers on personalized nutrition education plans,” says chef Stephanie Urrutia, RD, LD, a senior culinary educator at the OSUCCC – James. “We focus on high-protein, high-calorie and easy-to-eat recipes, and provide information tailored to the patients’ diagnoses.” Today’s Recipe: Microwave Mug Cake “The microwave mug cake is a high protein, high calorie option for patients going through treatment — it is nutritionally dense and pantry friendly,” Urrutia says. “The high protein baking mix focuses on whole grains, simple ingredients and a higher protein content, and the protein factor can also be increased with the addition of either dairy or plant-based milk as well as toasted almonds. “The cherries and almonds complement each other nicely as they are related plants from the prunus genus of trees. Cherries are high in vitamin C and fiber in addition to offering a number of anti-inflammatory properties, as cherries are packed with anti-oxidants. Cherries are immunity-boosting and have been proven to help with the quantity and quality of sleep — both of which are great benefits for anyone going through treatment. The caramel sauce can be adjusted to make the mug cake sweeter to open up taste buds if taste changes are a concern. “As always, it is important to remember that safe preparation and handling of foods is the most important factor to prevent the risk for introducing food borne illnesses, bacteria and viruses, into your body.”