While the kids (and parents) are happily back in the rhythm of the school schedule, there's still time to squeeze in some quality creative time after pick up. There's no better place than the kitchen to keep them occupied and unleash their creativity. Whether your little assistant is a newbie or an aspiring young chef, here are four fun bread-based recipes to try with them.
Garlic bread
If your little one has shown an interest in cooking, bravo! For starters, try this effortless recipe that involves just four ingredients: baguette, butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley.
Directions: In a large bowl, mix butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Preheat the oven to 175°C. Slice the baguette. Line a baking tray with foil. Use a pastry brush to spread the mixture on the bread. Place the slices on the baking tray and bake for 5-7 minutes.
Jazz things up a little and add some cheese and roughly chopped fresh basil. Ask the kids to look at the consistency of the cheese before and after it has melted. Using the scissors to chop the basil is great for their fine motor skills. Garlic bread is derived from the Italian bruschetta, a thickly sliced bread-based dish rubbed with olive oil and garlic gloves, which was originally considered peasant food, and most likely a tradition passed down from the Ancient Romans.
French toast
This classic is a hit with adults but the kids will love it too! It’s a recipe that will get them whipping and dipping ingredients to create a soft and sweet treat. Ask them to be creative and come up with options for the toppings on their own.
Directions: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, cinnamon powder, sugar, and vanilla essence. Transfer the mixture to a baking or any other flat and deep dish. Dip sliced bread into the mixture so both sides are coated and allow it to soak for 5-10 minutes. Melt butter in a skillet on medium heat. Place the bread on the skillet and cook until each side is golden brown. To serve, drizzle some maple syrup or honey. Top with fresh berries or whipped cream.
Open sandwich
Creating these cute sarnies is a great opportunity to bond with your children because they are going to need your help if they want to make complex shapes and figures. Let their imagination run wild. The best part about these sandwiches is that even the picky eaters will want them for dinner, which means no more tantrums at the table. Check out the image slide bar below, the options are endless!
Directions: To make a ladybug sandwich: layer sliced bread with cheese and lettuce leaves. Cut a slice of tomato in half and place both pieces on top of the lettuce with a V-shaped gap. Use black olives to create the spots, a cherry tomato for the head and peppercorns for the eyes.
Dessert sandwiches
Simple to make and perhaps the quickest and easiest way to get them to consume their five a day, this healthy dessert sees a dollop of ricotta cheese blanketed with fresh fruits on a bed of white bread. But the fun doesn't have to stop there, as you can let them run wild with ideas. Just hand them a tub of chocolate spread and pile up the chopped fruits and they'll be happy for hours!
Directions: You could use soft rolls or mini rolls. Cut the bread into thin slices. Spread an even layer of ricotta cheese. Sweeten the cheese with honey if required. Top with slices of kiwi, strawberries or any other fresh fruit of your choice. Garnish with chopped nuts, dried fruit or fresh mint leaves.
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