If you’re scratching your head wondering how to entertain your young ones these holidays then scratch no longer. One of the most rewarding gifts you can give your children is how to cook and a love of good food. Cooking is both a source of entertainment and education and your children learn a worthwhile lifelong skill.
The starving 15-year-old, who — after school — can whip up a salad from leftovers in the fridge will be much happier than his/her non-cooking friend who rummages through the pantry for anything that can be scavenged straight from a bag or packet.
If you allow your kids to become ‘sous chefs’ in your kitchen they are more likely to choose a healthy, balanced diet. It is also a source of pride for junior chefs to be able to feed a friend or sibling.
With guidance, even three-year-olds can learn some basic skills. Encourage them to arrange a rainbow of salad vegetables and fruits on a plate and discuss their yumminess and goodness. Ask them to grate the cheese for a sauce, or prick potatoes with a fork and put them in the microwave, or whip cream for lamingtons, or cut fruit for a fruit salad.
Cooking together is a great way for your family to communicate. Never mind the spills and splashes. Start now, and you may reap the benefit of a child who can take over dinner once a week or once a month. Good luck!
Terrific taco burgers
For step-by-step images with Alice and Emma go to my website. Get the recipe
Ham and egg penne
Blanched vegetables could be added to the eggs and cream eg, peas, beans, corn kernels. Get the recipe
Hot spud dogs
One potato takes about 3 minutes to cook using a 1000 watt microwave oven. Four will take 10-12 minutes. Hold each potato with a clean tea towel when cutting to prevent burning your fingers. Get the recipe
Lemon curd lamingtons
Great served with a fresh fruit salad for dessert or as a special treat for afternoon tea. Get the recipe