I'm not sure about hospital food- my mom complained that it was bad, and I'm trusting her judgment since she was not heavily drugged after her surgery (it was to help a slight incontinence issue).
Anyway, why not do different compotes? Compotes are like applesauce, except you can do other fruits. It is delicious, and boy, I could eat that for days.
I also love dipping bread in olive oil, or flavoured oils. Maybe a soft bread and some oil could be a side as well as soup. Jello made with ginger ale is great, and spices up normal Jello. Any kind of soft souffle (thinking cheese here) would be tasty, as well as the suggested quiche, or maybe an omlette.
Hope your brother feels better.