I’m going to give you a reason to laugh at me. (It’s okay. I deserve it. And laughing is good for you.) Ready? I didn’t think that my older son would go through a picky phase. Ever.
Done chuckling? Yea, me, too. Because my (deservedly) famously intrepid eater has now, nearing 4-years-old, gone through several picky phases. And I’d better get ready for the same with number two. It happens to the best of them and, when it does, you need to be prepared.
I won’t hide vegetables, so my options are pretty limited. I’m left changing things up as best I can, relying on picky-eater staples like this one, being patient (don’t get caught in the power struggle!) and not giving in (keep serving veggies; they don’t need more reasons to like delicious mac-n-cheese).
More ideas!
This garlicky, lemony edamame puree works as everything from a side to chicken or lamb to a ketchup alternative on turkey burgers. It’s a super healthy baby food. And, of course, you can just serve it as a dip, because even picky eaters get pulled in by the dip!
You don’t have to be feeding a picky eater to appreciate this hummus. It’s delicious, nutritious and easy to make in a flash. I don’t love tahini, so I leave it out. You can easily add some (about 1/4 c), though, for a nutty flavor. Cumin is also a nice addition.
Edamame Hummus
(can be served to children 12+ mos)*
1 10 oz bag frozen, shelled edamame, cooked as directed on package
juice of 1 lemon*
1 – 1 1/2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
1/4 cup water
4 tbs olive (or sesame) oil
1. Add everything except the oil to a food processor and pulse until well chopped.
2. Continue pureeing while adding oil in a steady stream. You’re done when you’ve got a nice, creamy texture. It may take a couple of minutes depending on how powerful your food processor is. And you may need to add a smidge more water–every batch is a little different!
Note: Conservative experts recommend waiting until 12+ months to introduce citrus. But the latest guidelines, including those issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics, suggest that there is no reason to delay citrus beyond 6 months.
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Kids change the way we cook, but they don’t have to change how well we eat. Get more family-friendly recipes, tips and techniques on Stacie’s blog, One Hungry Mama.
Photo by Patrick Fore
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