Cooking

■ Parsnips have a mild sweet flavor like carrots and a fragrance like celery.

■ Large parsnips should be peeled and if the center is woody, cut the parsnip into smaller pieces and remove the center.

When kids help make healthy food, they are more likely to try it. Show kids how to:

❁ safely handle sharp lids when opening cans.

❁ fill a blender part way and be sure the lid is on tight.

When kids help make healthy food, they are more likely to try it. Show kids how to:

❁ wash vegetables under cool running water.

❁ sprinkle ingredients on a tortilla for a quesadilla.

❁ measure spices and other ingredients.

When kids help make healthy food, they are more likely to try it. Show kids how to :

❁ set the timer for cooking rice.

❁ package cooked rice to store in the refrigerator or freezer.

❁ chop fruits, veggies or proteins for a rice bowl.

■ Greens are best when refrigerated with a little moisture and airflow. Cover greens with a damp paper towel in an open container or make holes in a plastic bag (20 holes in a medium bag). Some greens are sold in plastic boxes with holes. Use greens within 7 to 10 days for best quality.

■ Store dried herbs and spices in a cool, dark location away from direct heat or sunlight. Keep containers tightly closed.

❁ In bulk foods, you can buy a small amount to use while the flavor is strongest. Or try something new.

❁ Check for a “BEST by” date on packaged spices and herbs. They are still safe after the date but the flavor will be weaker.

Kids Can!

When kids help make healthy food, they are more likely to try it. Show kids how to:

❁ snip green onions or chives with kitchen scissors.

❁ put onions in the refrigerator before cutting.

When kids help make healthy food, they are more likely to try it. Show kids how to:

❁ measure and mix ingredients.

❁ slice veggies on the diagonal, Asian style.

❁ use a long-handled spoon or spatula to stir foods safely during cooking.

Follow these guidelines when handling meat:

Clean: Wash hands, utensils and surfaces often with hot soapy water.

Separate: Keep raw meat and juices from contacting other raw or cooked foods.

When kids help make healthy food, they are more likely to try it.

Show kids how to:

❁ peel hard-cooked eggs.

❁ cut or tear bread into cubes.

❁ mix ingredients together.

When kids help make healthy food, they are more likely to try it. Show kids how to:

❁ rinse blueberries under cool running water.

❁ lightly beat an egg.

❁ sprinkle toppings on crisps or sundaes.

Whole Wheat Flour –a general purpose flour that can be used for most baked products. It has a stronger wheat flavor and darker color than refined flour. Baked products will have a more compact and heavy texture.

When kids help make healthy food, they are more likely to try it. Show kids how to:

wash tomatoes by rubbing.
spread cheese mixture on bread.
open cans safely to avoid sharp lid edges.

❁ Split peas are mature peas that are allowed to dry before harvesting. When the skins are removed, they naturally split in half.

❁ Either yellow or green split peas can be used in most recipes. Yellow split peas have a mild flavor while green split peas are slightly sweeter.