tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51493094407187005102024-03-04T23:58:30.917-05:00iF it's wiseman mOnster apprOveD...If it does not look like: carbs; dairy; juice; nuts; chicken; sweets; and of course breastmilk; my toddler wont eat it.
iF it's wiseman mOnster apprOveD... is a documentation of my successful journey to accomplish healthy delicious meals that the whole family eat.
Yes! I even got him to eat beet greens.Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-33013306176688243992012-05-26T13:29:00.000-04:002012-05-26T13:29:00.134-04:00WEETABIX ?<br />
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I have to say this one took me by surprise. When I purchased a box of reduced<a href="http://www.weetabix.ca/#home"> Weetabix </a>the last person I pegged as eating them was C Monster. Here he is enjoying Weetabix with vanilla yogurt and a little honey. He also likes them with just a little milk.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjdWcyOSF5NKZ31u75PSF7r5bnQbLUOcdRJPD1HZs49yzXtwhy0uILGdWRVTIVO_aK7p2U9Hu5Ot4ySLFJMlcHGwbzVwfcgaCYy_JS8SpZh0L1Q_hyphenhyphen4tI7eQ4QdjetLc7-YTg90Z6OsJM/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjdWcyOSF5NKZ31u75PSF7r5bnQbLUOcdRJPD1HZs49yzXtwhy0uILGdWRVTIVO_aK7p2U9Hu5Ot4ySLFJMlcHGwbzVwfcgaCYy_JS8SpZh0L1Q_hyphenhyphen4tI7eQ4QdjetLc7-YTg90Z6OsJM/s320/photo+2.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
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I wanted to also take a minute to talk about cereal in general. I am very particular about what cereal we buy in our house. Our food is no longer 100% organic that is a decision we had to make when we decided to purchase a bigger house. Bigger house = bigger mortgage = cutting cost in various locations. However we do not buy food that is full of additives and chemicals. So what do I look for in a cereal?</div>
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<ol>
<li>Sugar content must be 6g or bellow; ideally between 0g and 4g</li>
<li>It can not contain any preservatives or ingredients that one would not find in a well stocked kitchen pantry</li>
<li>It is on sale. As cereal is a treat in our house we only buy it when it is on sale. </li>
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If have to say once you follow all these rules there is not much left out there one can buy; so I was delighted when C Monster decided that he LOVED Weetabix.</div>
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<br />Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-47940789281983241902012-05-21T11:29:00.001-04:002012-05-21T11:29:06.504-04:00PEAR POMEGRANATE POPSICLES<br />
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As summer approaches I really get into popsicle making. I find this is a great way to get C monster to eat more fruit. The flavour of the week for popsicle is pear pomegranate.</div>
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It's very easy just mix in with emersion blender or regular blender 1/2 cup pure no sugar added pomegranate juice with 2 cups packed no sugar added canned pears.</div>
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I make my own canned pears to avoid the BPA in the can liners; if you do not want to use store bought pears just measure out about 4 cup pears and cook them until soft. You can boil them in a little pear juice or water. You can bake them in the oven. Use your imagination.</div>
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Once the mixture is complete just pour them into your favourite popsicle mould freeze overnight and enjoy!</div>
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<br /></div>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-25212019406734432542012-03-16T10:52:00.000-04:002012-03-16T10:52:00.577-04:00GETTING CREATIVE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Earlier this month I bought some of those sandwich cutters to remove the crust from the bread. I though the C Monster would love them as he pretty much never eats his crust. To my surprise it back fired; as he put all in tears : "mama I have no crust to hold on to my fingers are going to get sticky" </div>
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However the next sandwich I made he said I want a butterfly but with crust. Here it is a butterfly with crust accompanied by a little raisin and sandwich kite.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1N0zW-yLYQs/T1y5RhSZLAI/AAAAAAAAA5k/QhcXpBqCH6Q/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1N0zW-yLYQs/T1y5RhSZLAI/AAAAAAAAA5k/QhcXpBqCH6Q/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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That same day he also had an edamame boat. The sail is made from a bread stick and a 1/4 sheet of nori.</div>
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<br />Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-30372075273097810792012-01-14T10:06:00.000-05:002012-01-14T10:06:23.303-05:00Tomato bean soupI have not been posting as much these days because well we have been busy. For those of you who read <a href="http://wisemanconspiracy.blogspot.com/">Wiseman Conspiracy</a> you know we have recently moved.... Last night I made the most amazing soup that C Monster actually ate.<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d9RDd9rKTsk/TxGYOWqRFwI/AAAAAAAAA1A/snH6kOAURtU/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d9RDd9rKTsk/TxGYOWqRFwI/AAAAAAAAA1A/snH6kOAURtU/s200/photo+1.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
4 Small Red Onions Chopped<br />
1 Tbsp Butter<br />
2 1L Jars Chopped Canned Tomatoes and their juice<br />
1 540mL Can Beans Drained and Rinsed (I used Romano)<br />
2 Cups Chopped Kale<br />
1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning<br />
1 Generous Tsp Marjoram<br />
1 Vegetarian Bouillon Cube<br />
Salt To Taste<br />
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<b> Directions:</b><br />
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On medium to low heat melt butter once melted add red onions and cook until soft until soft. Add all remaining ingredients except for beans. If their is not enough liquid from the beans add a little water. Bring to a boil on high heat then reduce and simmer for 10 mins. Add beans and simmer an additional 10-25 minutes until kale is cooked.<br />
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Once the soup was cooked I removed 1 cup and blended it smooth with my immersion blender. C said it was one of the best soups I have ever made.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lTwNvk6pGkk/TxGYOxoy1KI/AAAAAAAAA1U/qpnbMO3vjQY/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lTwNvk6pGkk/TxGYOxoy1KI/AAAAAAAAA1U/qpnbMO3vjQY/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C Monster enjoying my soup along with black bean and cheese quesadillas </td></tr>
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<br />Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-3373396169363062002011-12-10T22:45:00.001-05:002011-12-14T15:51:19.274-05:00MEET ASTRO NUTThe C Monster loves nuts; he even loves them more when they still have shells on. I had been looking for a kid friendly nutcracker for him and well we adopted Astro Nut. He is our friendly little nut crunching robot (as C describes him). I found him at<a href="http://www.iqliving.com/"> IQ Living </a>on the Danforth.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L5Igwd2K-3g/TuQmKfS_BTI/AAAAAAAAAw8/NdQoKifccb0/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L5Igwd2K-3g/TuQmKfS_BTI/AAAAAAAAAw8/NdQoKifccb0/s320/photo.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-62924089550132184812011-12-10T10:33:00.000-05:002011-12-10T10:33:00.401-05:00CARROTS ANYONE?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You all know my struggle with getting C Monster to try anything. I recently discovered that he is more likely to try a new food if it is julienned. Julienned carrots are now a new staple in his diet. I pre-cut a bunch and store then in an airtight container in the fridge with a little water at the bottom. They will keep fresh for about 3-4 days. </div>
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<br />Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-41025747513679201512011-06-20T15:04:00.000-04:002011-06-20T15:04:04.968-04:00Asparagus SoupI still don't understand this one but the Monster ate this soup and even asked for more...<br />
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INGREDIENTS:<br />
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- 1 tbsp. butter<br />
- 1/2 red onion, diced<br />
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed<br />
- 2 1/2 pounds fresh asparagus, (2 bunches) tops and bottoms trimmed. save tops<br />
- 6 onces potatoes, chopped<br />
- 3 1/2 cups vegetable broth<br />
- 1 1/4 tsp. salt<br />
- 1/2 tsp. pepper<br />
- 1/2 tsp. dried basil<br />
- 1/2 cup cream, (or milk)<br />
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METHOD:<br />
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1. melt butter in heavy bottom pot on medium heat. Add onions, garlic and saute over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Do not allow garlic to brown.<br />
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2. While onions are cooking, cut the asparagus into 3/4 inch pieces. When onions are soft add add asparagus (reserve the tips), potatoes and cook for about 6 minutes. Add broth and raise the heat until soup boils. Once boiling reduce to low and simmer covered for 20 minutes.<br />
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3. While soup is cooking, blanch asparagus tips. and place aside for garnish.<br />
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4. Once soup is cooked add all remaining ingredients except for asparagus tips. and blend using the emersion blender.<br />
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5. toss is the tips and serve.Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-56470525987394980182011-06-20T14:57:00.002-04:002011-06-20T14:57:40.893-04:00Strawberry Kiwi Smoothie<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Until I tried this smoothy mix I could not get the monster to even touch a kiwi...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">INGREDIENTS:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">- 1 cup strawberries frozen, partly thawed</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">- 1 kiwi, peeled and chopped</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">- 1/2 cup Vanilla yogurt</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">- 1/2 cup milk</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">- 1 tbsp. honey</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">DIRECTION:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Place all ingredients in your emmersion blender cup and mix with immersion blender until smooth.</span>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-42904552938951569072011-04-07T15:54:00.000-04:002011-04-07T15:54:16.767-04:00Apple PancakesThese are a little finicky to cook but well worth the effort - very yummy.<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour<br />
1 cup whole wheat flour<br />
2 tbsp. Panela<br />
2 tsp. baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp. baking soda<br />
1/4 tsp. salt<br />
1 large egg<br />
2 tbsp. canola oil<br />
400 mL unsweetened applesauce<br />
1/2 tsp. Cinnamon, ground<br />
1/4 cup Milk, add more as needed<br />
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
Measure first 6 ingredients in a bowl and mix.<br />
Add remaining ingredients. Mix until moistened. Drop by about 1/4 cup at a time and cook on a greased frying pan. When bubbles appear and edges look dry, turn and cook other side.<br />
Serve with real maple syrup.<br />
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</div>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-65040360471345937852011-03-30T16:42:00.002-04:002011-03-30T16:42:00.249-04:00Sweet Potato Whole Wheat PancakesThis is a Whole Wheat Pancakes recipe that I switched up a bit; you know me it is impossible for me to make pancakes without a veggie in it.<br />
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</div><div><b>Ingredients:</b></div><div><br />
</div><div><div>2 cups milk </div><div>2 tsp apple cider vinegar</div></div><div><br />
</div><div>1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour</div><div>1 cup all-purpose flour</div><div>1 tbsp panella</div><div>1 tbsp baking powder</div><div>1/2 tsp baking soda</div><div>1/4 tsp salt</div><div><br />
</div><div>1 tbsp canola oil</div><div>1 large egg, fork beaten</div><div><br />
</div><div>1 1/2 cup shredded sweet potatoes</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Directions:</b></div><div><b><br />
</b></div><div>Combine milk and apple cider vinegar - set aside</div><div>Combine both flours, panella , baking powder, Baking soda and salt. </div><div>Add oil, egg and milk mixture - mix well.</div><div>Fold in sweet potatoes.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Drop about 1/4 cup batter on hot greased frying pan, cook until edges bubble then flip and cook other side. Serve warm with <a href="http://wisemanmonsterapproved.blogspot.com/2011/03/maple-syrup.html">pure maple syrup</a>.</div><div></div><div><br />
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</div>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-51923284372474684492011-03-29T16:25:00.000-04:002011-03-29T16:25:50.212-04:00Peanut BallsThis is a not too sweet yummy desert; I told C Monster that they were candy balls, he bought it; tried one and loved them. I can bribe him to eat almost anything with the promises of a nut ball. On top of this it is no bake so a great desert to have the little ones help with.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkO7xa_1iOy9fXvYJyznf4dkVfg4dFl-hoAwNVGLPIu7ETJT2cBD2srjeKxq2Ewhiortno87qn9vSH-3rwxRVYUjRf5E_Tqi0lOY7EPhY3uovLH_1VE0WpgHgxVujULikT5ELdyB-qVpM/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkO7xa_1iOy9fXvYJyznf4dkVfg4dFl-hoAwNVGLPIu7ETJT2cBD2srjeKxq2Ewhiortno87qn9vSH-3rwxRVYUjRf5E_Tqi0lOY7EPhY3uovLH_1VE0WpgHgxVujULikT5ELdyB-qVpM/s320/photo.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
1/2 cup Smooth Almond Butter<br />
1/2 cup Smooth Peanut Butter<br />
1 cup liquide Honey<br />
1 cup skim milk powder<br />
1 cup puff rice cereal<br />
1 cup graham cracker crumbs<br />
icing sugar - about 1/4 cup<br />
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
Combine almond butter, peanut butter and honey until smooth. Add milk powder and mix well. Add puff rice cereal and graham crumbs and mix very well. At this point you may need to use your hands and kneed the dough to make sure it is properly blended.<br />
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After mixing is done form small balls about 1- 1 1/12 inches in diameter and roll each ball in icing sugar. place in a container and store in the refrigerator. Best served cold.Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-58987820291081854062011-03-26T10:49:00.000-04:002011-03-26T10:49:05.605-04:00Nut and Fruit Shake<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
1/4 cup chopped walnuts<br />
1 tbsp honey<br />
1 banana<br />
1 cup chopped frozen strawberries<br />
3/4 cup plain yogurt<br />
1/4 cup milk<br />
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
Place in your blender walnuts and process on low until they are all ground up. Add honey, strawberries; process until the strawberries are all broken up and kinda look like sorbet. Add remainder ingredients, scrap down sides of blender then process until juice is smooth.<br />
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Enjoy cold, serves 2.Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-78434508151926156672011-03-14T15:48:00.004-04:002011-03-14T15:48:00.528-04:00Whole Wheat Banana BreadMy new challenge that I have taken on is modifying my recipes that almost everything that C monster eats has some vegetables hidden in it. So this last week I took on my grandmother's recipe that C monster already loves and made it better and healthier. The end result is a very tasty banana bread that does not only have banana's but also sweet potato added to the batter. <br />
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<b>Classic Banana Bread (my grandmother's recipe)</b><br />
1/4 cup butter, softened<br />
1/2 cup brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup white sugar<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour<br />
1 tsp. baking powder<br />
1 tsp. baking soda<br />
3 small bananas, crushed<br />
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<b>New and Improved Banana Bread Recipe</b><br />
<b><div style="display: inline !important; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="display: inline !important;">1/4 canola oil</div></div></b><br />
<b><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">3/4 cup panella</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">2 eggs</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">1 1/2 whole wheat flour</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">1 tsp. baking powder</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">1 tsp. baking soda</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (about 2 large)</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">1 cup shredded sweet potatoes</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Directions</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Combine all ingredients - mix well, pour batter in greased loaf pan and bake for approximately 1 hour or until cooked.</div></b>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-84237791598288376972011-03-12T15:16:00.000-05:002011-03-12T15:16:30.150-05:00Maple SyrupWell this is not a recipe but it's food related. I just wanted to share with my friends and readers the contact info for what we believe is the best maple syrup we have yet to taste.<br />
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McCutcheon's they are a few hours out of Toronto and so worth the trip. This is a real maple syrup producing facility so don't expect hay rides or any of that. However the it's a family run operation and they are crazy nice.<br />
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Check out their site : <a href="http://www.mccmaple.com/site/index-2.html">http://www.mccmaple.com/site/index-2.html</a><br />
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As long as the syrup is ready we will be there next weekend.Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-54062729725379691622011-02-24T13:12:00.002-05:002011-02-24T13:12:00.475-05:00Masala Dehydrator CrackersThis is a variation on a recipe I found in <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Rainbow-Live-Food-Cuisine-Gabriel-Cousens/dp/1556434650">Rainbow Live-Food Cusine</a>; I changed the recipe up to reflect items I typically have on my kitchen.<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
2 cups flax seeds<br />
1 1/2 cup almonds<br />
2-3 stalks celery<br />
1 cup broccoli sprouts (or sunflower sprouts)<br />
1/4 cup olive oil<br />
3 cup chopped carrots (large chunks)<br />
2 tablespoons lemon juice<br />
1 tablespoon Kosher salt<br />
1 teaspoon ground cumin seeds<br />
1 teaspoon ground ginger<br />
1/2 teaspoon group coriander seeds<br />
2 small garlic cloves<br />
2 teaspoons dried parsley<br />
1 teaspoon masala spice mix<br />
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
Place almonds in 1 1/2 cup of water and soak for 12 hours.<br />
Place flax seeds in 2 cups water and soak for 8 hours.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEBSZUb5So7Hci1-6RcJJOtB6HFG-yAhowI4gKSI7PQHmi0U_wKEaDrHBGWfXKdDvMp8JeiygTMKZ6ge-a1wjIpiLt2-AzswW0IgyNjspOjiajsPvTxRZdHfBVGV6iBDYpLJ4IUNDcE0g/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEBSZUb5So7Hci1-6RcJJOtB6HFG-yAhowI4gKSI7PQHmi0U_wKEaDrHBGWfXKdDvMp8JeiygTMKZ6ge-a1wjIpiLt2-AzswW0IgyNjspOjiajsPvTxRZdHfBVGV6iBDYpLJ4IUNDcE0g/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Once your seeds are done soaking you can start making your crackers. Place drained almonds in food processor along with carrots, garlic, lemon juice and oil. Process until chunky then add remainder or spices and seasonings along with diced celery and sprouts; process until smooth.<br />
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Combine in a large bowl the mixture from the food process with the soaked flax seeds, blend well by hand with a spoon.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ja4AaOYMPRw/TWQC1t17aXI/AAAAAAAAApI/mCUM9eIQdvY/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ja4AaOYMPRw/TWQC1t17aXI/AAAAAAAAApI/mCUM9eIQdvY/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Spread mixture on your dehydrator trays lined with the Teflex sheet. - 1/4" thick. I find a large frosting knife works great for doing this.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9FbQ0SMDko8/TWQC1qEn5zI/AAAAAAAAApM/w-p01du3-Jc/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9FbQ0SMDko8/TWQC1qEn5zI/AAAAAAAAApM/w-p01du3-Jc/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Dehydrate at 145F for 3 hours; then turn over the crackers and continue dehydrating at 115F for 6-8 hours until the crackers are ready.<br />
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Take the crackers out and snap in smaller pieces.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N_AiVTkaHoo/TWQChkS6v4I/AAAAAAAAAo4/KpyXC37gVy0/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N_AiVTkaHoo/TWQChkS6v4I/AAAAAAAAAo4/KpyXC37gVy0/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-45136462059415343052011-02-23T17:39:00.000-05:002011-02-23T17:39:00.229-05:00Sweet potato wafflesSometimes when the maternal guilt kicks in we have an odd supper like last night. The Monster wanted waffles for supper and well I felt guilty that I had smashed his tea set to smithereens earlier that day...<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
2 eggs<br />
1 3/4 cups whole milk<br />
1/4 cup canola oil<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
3/4 cup mashed cooked sweet potatoes<br />
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour<br />
1/2 cup flax meal<br />
1/4 cup oat bran<br />
1/4 cup all purpose flour<br />
4 teaspoon baking powder<br />
1 tablespoon panella<br />
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt<br />
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
Beat eggs. Add canola oil, vanilla extract, sweet potatoes and mix well. In a separate bowl combine all dry ingredients. Combine both mixtures until batter is smooth.<br />
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Cook in a waffle iron as per your waffle iron directions.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CLApefYQAxI/TWQ7HDm3f5I/AAAAAAAAApU/gRevXyyMjfw/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CLApefYQAxI/TWQ7HDm3f5I/AAAAAAAAApU/gRevXyyMjfw/s320/photo.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-82964432527082776242011-02-22T13:11:00.000-05:002011-02-22T13:11:40.339-05:00The Perfect Boiled Egg<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EUipPE2whXs/TWP8Bn3FRpI/AAAAAAAAAog/sY2CV7VvD6w/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EUipPE2whXs/TWP8Bn3FRpI/AAAAAAAAAog/sY2CV7VvD6w/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The C monster just loves boiled eggs, we finally figured out the perfect cooking time for them. First of all older eggs peel easier then fresh eggs but you can make a boiled egg with both fresh and older eggs. - but not so old that the eggs have spoiled.<br />
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I let the monster pick his eggs and gently place them in a pot then he covers his own eggs with water and places the pot on the stove (stove is still turned off). I them turn on the stove to medium high and bring the pot of water with the eggs to a boil. Leave it boil for one minute; then cover and remove from heat.<br />
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Now you let them sit for a minimum of 12 minutes. Often I make my eggs in the morning and leave them there till snack or lunch.<br />
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Once you are ready to eat them run them under cold water for a few minutes, they will be easier to peel. Once peeled let your little monster cut them with an egg cutter. We have the president choice one and just love it.<br />
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Voila your 3 year has now helped you cook their own perfect eggs, I find the Monster is more likely to try something if he took part in the cooking.Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-58710412507070344062011-02-10T13:38:00.002-05:002011-02-10T14:15:35.946-05:00Organic vs Conventional FoodsThere is no doubt about it, organic food is better for the planet and better for us, right? Well, that is what I would like to believe and until someone shows me valid proof otherwise my mind will not be changed. I just don't like the idea that my food took a shower in chemicals before making it to my table.<br /><br />Over 4 years ago now we made the switch to buying close to 100% organic food for our household; at the time we were DINKS (Dual income, no kids). Things have changed since them we now have a child and I am a SAHM (Stay at home mom) and in the future we would love to add another little monster to the mix.<br /><br />Strictly buying organic is easier, no need to think and look at list of produce that is "OK to buy conventional" or where something was made or grown; however, if you want to cut down on your grocery cost, and my estimate for us is probably close to 400$ - 500$ a year just on dairy alone, there is stuff you can do. <br /><br />So, starting this week we are no longer going to buy 100% organic, but buy our groceries selectively. The majority will still be organic, however, we will start buying some conventionally grown produce: the items that have the lowest amount of pesticide residue on them. We'll also start buying conventional dairy products from select countries.<br /><br />After reviewing information found on various websites, including but not limited to <a href="http://www.foodnews.org/fulllist.php">EWG</a> and wiki and the government of Canada sites, this is what I came up with that our family would compromise on.<br /><br /><b>Vegetables OK to buy conventionally:</b><br />Onions<br />Sweet Corn (Frozen)<br />Sweet Peas (Frozen)<br />Asparagus<br />Cabbage<br />Eggplant<br />Sweet Potatoes<br />Winter Squashes<br />Broccoli<br />Hot house vegetables (Canadian)<br /><br /><b>Fruits OK to buy conventionally:</b><br />Avocado<br />Pineapples<br />Mango<br />Kiwi<br />Cantaloupe (US and Canadian)<br />Watermelon<br />Grapefruit<br />Honeydew<br />Plums (Canadian)<br />Cranberries<br />Bananas<br /><br /><b>Dairy OK to buy conventionally:</b><br />My main concern with dairy is the Bovine Growth Hormone and use of antibiotics. Luckily for us, in Canada, the BGH is not legal to give to our cattle. Also, farmers have to pump and dump milk when antibiotics are used.<br /><br />I am not as concerned with making sure the dairy we consume is organic, as the jury is still out as to how much additional benefit organic dairy has for us versus conventional dairy; if the information out there ever changes, we will review our stance on this.<br /><br />So, as it stands I will be buying conventional milk, cheese, butter, cream as long as the milk it is made from originated from one of the following countries: Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and all European Union countries.Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-18566681736348130502011-02-09T13:16:00.001-05:002011-02-09T14:33:21.396-05:00Chewy Chocolate Chip and Kiwi CookiesIf you don't have dried kiwis try substituting dried cranberries, blueberries or cherries for them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TVAwN3PzEmI/AAAAAAAAAoE/KJMcS36u9xc/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TVAwN3PzEmI/AAAAAAAAAoE/KJMcS36u9xc/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b>Ingredients:</b><br /><br />1 cup butter (at room temperature)<br />1 1/2 cup panela (packed)<br />2 eggs<br />2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />3/4 cups all-purpose flour<br />1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour<br />1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />1 teaspoon salt<br />3 cups <a href="http://www.bobsredmill.com/rolled-spelt-flakes.html">Spelt Flakes</a><br />1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate chips<br />1/3 cup dried kiwi (diced)<br /><br /><b>Directions:</b><br /><ol><br /><li>Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).</li><br /><li>In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Combine the flours, baking soda, and salt; stir into the creamed mixture until just blended. Mix in the spelt flakes, chocolate chips and kiwi. Drop by heaping spoonfuls onto greased baking sheets.</li><br /><li>Bake for 12 minutes in the preheated oven. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.</li><br /></ol>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-8780577421194646422011-02-08T09:01:00.001-05:002011-02-08T09:01:00.498-05:00Chop Sticks - AKA magic eating device<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Trainer chopsticks are like magic. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A few weeks ago I made a trip to <a href="http://www.tnt-supermarket.com/en/">T&T Supermarket</a> to pick up some clementines so I could can them. While there, I saw these great trainer chopsticks made out of bamboo - they are basically regular chopsticks with a clip at the top; since I had been looking for some non-plastic trainer chopsticks I picked them up at a whopping price of 2.99$.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Since we have had them, I think C monster has eaten clementines, almonds, raisins, noodles, cake and many other things with them. This is actually how we got him to re-taste clementines after he had taken a 3 week break from wanting to eat them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TUNJs1Sc6AI/AAAAAAAAAnY/2iayLg9JG3I/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TUNJs1Sc6AI/AAAAAAAAAnY/2iayLg9JG3I/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Chopsticks may not be the answer to all your toddler eating challenges, but toddlers learn through play. For a non-chopstick household, adding a pair of chopsticks to meal time turn breakfast, lunch or supper into a game.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Just another trick to try with your picky eater. </div>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-27731351372893552272011-02-07T13:16:00.001-05:002011-02-07T14:04:30.291-05:00Vegan / Gluten Free Flax Seeds CrackersFor Christmas this year we got a Excalibur dehydrator and I have been trying all sorts of things in it. One of my biggest success so far are these crackers. C monster will only eat them with cream cheese; however, that's a compromise that I am willing to make. I don't blame him, either, because these crackers are "the bomb" with a thin slice of 5 year old white cheddar. He likes these so much that when I prepared crackers for him the other day, and used some buckwheat crackers we had, he said "non mama, not those ones, the new ones".<br /><br /><b>Ingredients:</b><br /><br />1 1/2 cups flax seeds<br />1 cup almonds<br />1 1/2 cup chopped carrots (washed)<br />1/4 cup parsley<br />1/4 cup sesame seeds<br />1/4 cup pumpkin seeds<br />1/2 cup hemp seeds<br />2 stalks celery (washed)<br />1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice<br />2 teaspoons kosher salt<br />2 teaspoons <a href="http://vitanetonline.com/Organic-Foods/93284-8/vitamins/SEASONING-ORGANIC-NORI-GRANULES/">nori granules</a><br /><br /><b>Directions:</b><br /><br />In a large bowl combine flax seeds, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds and hemp seeds; cover with boiling hot water and let sit for 2 hours.<br /><br />In a small bowl do the same with almonds.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TVAwMhgWI-I/AAAAAAAAAn0/2xlCs5pVJEA/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TVAwMhgWI-I/AAAAAAAAAn0/2xlCs5pVJEA/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />After the soaking is done place seeds mixture in a large sieve and drain extra water; their probably wont be much.<br /><br />Combine in food processor almonds, carrots, parsley, celery, lemon juice, salt and nori; process using 15 - 30 second pulses until well combined and minced. You may need to stop and scrape the sides of the food processor from time to time.<br /><br />Now combine both mixtures and mix well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TVAwNCa8A1I/AAAAAAAAAn4/pGzlVmMae0w/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TVAwNCa8A1I/AAAAAAAAAn4/pGzlVmMae0w/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />Line your dehydrator trays (approximately 4) with the paraflex-style sheets; then spread mixture 1/4" thick. Place in your dehydrator at 145F for 2-3 hours. Then remove the paraflex sheets and continue dehydrating at 115F for 6-8 hours.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TVAwNCs4tjI/AAAAAAAAAn8/9Yt7czu-tNo/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TVAwNCs4tjI/AAAAAAAAAn8/9Yt7czu-tNo/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Note: Recipe is a modification of "Almond and Seed Crackers" from <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Rainbow-Live-Food-Cuisine-Gabriel-Cousens/dp/1556434650">Rainbow Green Live-Food Cuisine.</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TVAwNbkiuLI/AAAAAAAAAoA/jShnuplIkUI/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TVAwNbkiuLI/AAAAAAAAAoA/jShnuplIkUI/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-13846525314507860612011-02-05T08:54:00.002-05:002011-02-05T11:22:15.012-05:00Sneaky Pasta and Stir FrysI just wanted to share this quick note on how to seek a little extra veggies into your toddler on stir fry or pasta nights. I started taking about 1/2 cup of the veggies and sauce for the meal and turning them into what looks like baby food with my immersion blender; I then toss his noodles with a little of this "new sauce". Any extra goes right back in the original dish. In the case of a stir fry it's actually a great way to thicken the sauce naturally without any additives like corn starch.<br /><br />No need to prep a different sauce for your toddler - one meal for the whole family.Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-26737893882552459962011-02-03T10:58:00.003-05:002011-02-03T10:58:00.424-05:00petit et gros "big and small"First, I am going to say what I am sure you have heard a thousand times -- and said "yeah, right" after, especially if you have a picky eater: Kids learn by example so if you eat a healthy balanced and varied diet they will. I say both 'yes' and 'no' to this.<br /><br />If you teach by example, your kids are more likely to grow up and be healthy adults. However, just because you eat a macrobiotic organic vegan diet does not necessarily mean your 2 year old will want to do the same.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.hotelclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/01_rambutan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://blog.hotelclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/01_rambutan.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>One thing I recently realized is that new food are scary even if it's a somewhat familiar food that they are used to eating in a juice or in bread or what not. I came to this epiphany at the grocery store a few weeks ago while staring at some exotic fruit like rambutan, dragon fruit and some other thing that was yellow that I can not even remember the name. I was thinking, "I should get some of these to try it would be good for the monster to learn about these" and then said to myself "what if I don't like them?" and went home with only the usual winter fruits in my basket: banana, oranges, clementines, pineapple and mangos.<br /><br />I have to say now that I am writing this, I promise next week I will buy one item that I have never tried when I do the groceries.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfg_4TimA19Z2nYCPsrGld98hgY3lzTiflDb_3eLHyTCssi8OXLIpDKOBOxIAl2UVqUXks34Kms67Wniy4gOyEcKrAXVNfvrGqGl3aQl0mrnQ9ep9v-IXTJcWT-FEMuJp406uatGaQQIA/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfg_4TimA19Z2nYCPsrGld98hgY3lzTiflDb_3eLHyTCssi8OXLIpDKOBOxIAl2UVqUXks34Kms67Wniy4gOyEcKrAXVNfvrGqGl3aQl0mrnQ9ep9v-IXTJcWT-FEMuJp406uatGaQQIA/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>One thing I also noticed over the holidays is that kids like things their size -- small. Often adult things are just too big. For example C monster has child cutlery; a small pillow; smaller dishes; smaller clothing; smaller bed; smaller potty; even a smaller chair and table. I was eating a clementine and my son said "petit like me" this eventually turned into him trying some.<br /><br />So one way that I came up with; to make foods a little less intimidating for him is find stuff his size. If I make pizza i make a little one just for him (often he evens helps). I have also tried to find small foods: quail eggs, clementines, baby carrots, baby bananas. The next thing I think I may try is baby cucumbers and baby red peppers; I'm also looking forward to the summer to try kiwi berries with him. Not everything is a success but he is usually interested enough in the tiny foods that he will at least try them. For the record, the quail eggs, clementines and bananas are a success. The carrots, I can get him to eat one here and there so it's a success in the making.<br /><br />When I'm getting him to try the food the first time, it often helps if both Geoff and I sit down with a regular version of the food and we all try it together. Of course both Geoff and I say "yummy" and "I like this" and ask him "do you like..."?Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-24432434242869953062011-02-01T18:13:00.002-05:002011-02-02T15:23:14.662-05:00Variety is the Key<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TUNJtG-y4rI/AAAAAAAAAnc/lcCsAJ9V4tY/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TUNJtG-y4rI/AAAAAAAAAnc/lcCsAJ9V4tY/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>One of the things we noticed is C Monster is more likely to try something new if it looks like something he is used to.<br /><br />For example, we can almost always get him to try any white coloured cheese as he knows he likes cheese.<br /><br />We can get him to try almost any kind of yogurt as he like yogurt.<br /><br />We can get him to try almost any kind of crackers.<br /><br />He likes fries so if I cut other things in fry shapes and cook them like fries; he will try them.<br /><br />He likes rice so I can get him to try other things that look like rice such as quinoa, wheat berries, orzo and barley.<br /><br />He likes eggs so we got him quail eggs. - I think he like quail eggs even more then chicken eggs.<br /><br />He does not always love the item we trick him in trying but at least he is trying them and the key to developing a toddlers palate is to get them to taste more and more things.<br /><br />To get him to eat something new we often tell him it's what he is used to and then after he has had it a few times we would say this kind of rice is called quinoa or that flavour of yogurt is raspberry. If he has already had the item 2 or 3 times he no longer cares that it was not what he though it was he just knows he likes it.Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5149309440718700510.post-14094661561604137982011-01-31T11:41:00.001-05:002011-01-31T11:41:00.674-05:00Helping kids learn about healthy foods...I have started talking to C monster about food, and what is good food and not-so-good food, why we buy organic, why I grow my own food and so on. When we do groceries and he asks for something, we talk about it. For example, if he wants a Reese peanut butter cup instead of just saying no straight out, we talk about it. I ask him if it's healthy, if it's going to make him grow big and so on. I suggest other food that are better for him, such a bag of cashews or yogurt. Or even suggest that we buy what we need to make a healthier organic version of the treat he wanted at home. I find these discussions avoid melt downs and also are the building blocks for him to understand what a healthy diet is.<br /><br />Of course, he still gets treats sometimes, but instead of buying a big candy bar we get a small individual fair trade chocolate; since these are harder to find it does not happen that often. I am actually surprised with how much the monster already understands about fair trade and organic. The other day he told me that we don't get those apples because their was pesticides on them - "mama, not these pommes yucky on them, these OK mama?"<br /><br />I also found a few games that are about food <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Lets-Go-Shopping-by-HABA/dp/B000HJ9SMK">"let's go shopping" by Haba </a>and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/eeBoo-PICGM-Picnic-Game/dp/B000GYWX96">"The Picnic Game" by eeBoo</a>. "Let's go shopping" can be played as young as 2 1/2.<br /><br />I particularly like "The Picnic Game" as the goal of the game is to collect one item from the following categories, desert, fruit, vegetable, main course, drink, plate and cutlery. This helps kids understand that their are various categories of food.<br /><br />Another activity I have started to do with him is his Food Guide. I created a simple food guide with envelopes and cards that he can move around to count what he has eaten in one day. I actually find some days this helps to get him to eat -- other days he could not care about it. However it's a great help to us as throughout the day I just need to glance over at it to remind myself what else C Monster should eat for the day. Eventually I want to re-do it so it has a separate fruit and vegetable categories but I wanted to get him used to the 4 basic food guide categories first.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TUNJszGZeLI/AAAAAAAAAnU/MV3Z_2pKTPk/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BdBSI9SoDZc/TUNJszGZeLI/AAAAAAAAAnU/MV3Z_2pKTPk/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Pierrettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09931216335238588899noreply@blogger.com0