Precious Marrow Soup

1 hairy marrow
50g white fish fillet, diced finely
50g carrot, diced finely
50g shelled shrimps, diced finely
3 dried chinese mushrooms, soaked, stems removed and diced finely
1 slice old giner
200g pork ribs
1 litre water

SEASONING
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon light soy sauce

1. Scald the ribs in boiling water for 3 mins.
2. Bring a litre of water to boil. Add the scalded pork ribs, reduce heat, cover the pot and simmer the stock for an hour.
3. While the stock is simmering, skin the hairy marrow and dice it into 1 cm cubes.
4. Add the diced marrow, mushrooms, carrot and ginger and cook for 30mins or till the marrows have cooked through.
5. Now add the diced fish, shrimps and seasoning. Continue to cook for 5 mins.
6. Remove pork ribs and serve the soup hot.

Tomato And Potato Soup

2 tomatoes, wedged
2 potatoes, wedged
1 carrot, wedged
200g pork ribs
100g lean pork
1 slice old giner
1.7 litres water

SSEASONING
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon light soy sauce

1. Scald lean pork ribs in boiling water for 3 mis. Drain and rinse.
2. Bring 1.7 litres of water to a boil. Add potatoes, carrot, ginger and scalded meat. Bring contents to a boil and then lower the heat. Cover the pot and simmer the soup for 1 and 1/2 hours.
3. Add wedge tomatoes and continue simmering for another hour. Add seasoning before serving.
4. Serve soup and cooked ingredients separatedly. Complement cooked ingredients with a little soy sauce.

Soup For Good Appetite

20g Crataegus Pinnatifida (san cha)
20g Hordeum Vulgare Linne (mug nga)
20g Oryza Sativa L. (kog nga)
6 honey dates
2 drieed duck gizzards
200g lean pork
1 litre water

1. Soak the dried duck gizzards in hot water for 30 minutes. Discard the water and rinse the gizzards thoroughly. Cut the gizzards into thick slices.
2. Scald the lean pork in boiling water for 3 minutes. Remove and rinse.
3. Rinse all the herbs and dates briefly and drain well.
4. Bring the litre of water to a boil. Include all the ingredients, cover the pot and bring to a boil again. Lower the heat and simmer with the pot covered for 2 hours.
5. Sieve the soup and discard the herbs. The cooked dates, duck gizzard and lean pork can be eaten. Serve soup hot.

Quick Corn And Codfish Set

Ingredients:

Rice 150 grams
Codfish 80 grams
Corn paste 30 grams
Ham 10 grams
Asparagus, Violet lettuce; each 30 grams
Salad sauce 10 grams
Chopped ginger 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1 and 1/4 teaspoons
Corn starch 1/2 tablespoon
Cooking wine 1/2 tablespoon

Instructions:

1. Season codfish with 1/2 teaspoon salt, cooking wine and minced ginger for 20 minutes. Pare the asparagus and cut into sections. Shred the violet lettuce. Scald the asparagus in hot water, remove quickly and place on lettuce. Dash salad sauce over them before serving.


2. Coat codfish with corn starch and fiyover small fire until golden-brown.


3. Add cubed ham to corn paste and bring to a boil. Then add 1/4 teaspoonsalt. Thicken gravy with corn starchand pour over codfish.
   

Accompanying Soup: Make a clear soup using big bones. Add cubed beancurd. When it is boiling, add 1/2 teaspoon salt and blend in one beaten egg. Thicken soup with corn starch.

Recipe Obtained from Book Titled "Nutritious Recipes For Children" by Shinglee Publishing

Quick Egg Dumpling Set

Ingredients:

Rice 150 grams
Minced meat 30 grams
Eggs 20 grams
Tomato 20 grams
Beancurd 15 grams
Young cabbage 50 grams

Salt l 1/4 teaspoons
Soy sauce 1/2 tablespoon
Corn starch 1/4 tablespoon

Instructions:

1. Blend the minced meat with 1/2 teaspoon salt, soy sauce and corn starch. Beat the egg together with 1/4 teaspoon salt.


2. Spread egg evenly on a pan and fry into a small, round egg pie. Before it hardens, sprinkle some minced meat on it and fold into two until the two parts close tightly.


3. Cube the beancurd and the tomato. Boil them in water until cooked and add 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add corn starchto make a thick gravy.


4. Heat oil in a pan before stir-frying the young cabbage with 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Recipe Obtained from Book Titled "Nutritious Recipes For Children" by Shinglee Publishing.

Cranberries

Cranberries are rich in vitamin C: indeed there is as much vitamin C in a glass of cranberry juice as there is in a glass of orange juice. Cranberry juice has long been used to help prevent and treat cystitis and other bladder, kidney and urinary tract infections.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Chocolate

Chocolate contains some ingredients that are good for you such as iron, magnesium and calcium (in milk chocolate) - so don't feel too guilty about eating it.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Tomato Ketchup

Tomato Ketchup requires 25 tomatoes to fill one bottle. Lycopene, the natural red pigment found in tomatoes, has been linked with a lower risk of prostrate cancer and heart disease. For years, nutritionists have emphasised the benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables. However, lycopene is easier for our bodies to absorb when the tomatoes have been cooked or processed with a little oil into foods such as ketchup or pasta sauce.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a nutrient-dense and energy-giving food, providing an excellent source of protein, folic acid, calcium and zinc. Zinc plays an important role in building up a strong immune system.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Lettuce

Lettuce is rich in vitamin A and C, potassium, calcium and folic acid. The darker the lettuce leaves, the more nutrients they contain. Lettuce also contains phytochemicals that act as a mild sedative and may help induce sleep. Always remove and discard the outer leaves of lettuce.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Olive Oil

Olive oil is used a lot in the Mediterranean diet and research now shows that it is one of the most healthy of oils. Olive oil is very high in antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids, which actually help prevent heart disease.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Raisins

Raisins are a concentrated source of calories and fibre and provide a high energy snack. They are good mixed with oats since the high sugar content of raisins provides a quick release of energy while the oats provide sustained energy. Raisins are also a source of iron.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Smoothies

Smoothies are good for breakfast or a snack. They are naturally high in antioxidants because they are made with fresh fruit.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Almonds

Almonds contain calcium, iron, zinc and magnesium and have a high fat content and also high in protien and energy. The fat they contain is the healthy unsaturated type. All nuts should be eaten while fresh as they build up contaminants that can cause illness. Whole nuts should not be given to children under five years of age due to the risk of choking.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Tuna

Tuna is a true SuperFood store cupboard standby, rich in protein, vitamin D and vitamin B12. Tuna is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help to protect us against heart disease.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Prawns

Prawns are rich in selenium and zinc, both of which are important to maintain a strong immune system. Zinc is also important for repair and healing.

WARNING: Shellfish are a common cause of food allergy - always make sure it is very fresh.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Brown Rice

Brown rice tends not to be used for Chinese fried rice, but it is an excellent source of energy. It is a good idea to get your child used to eating brown rice as it contains more minerals, vitamins and fibre than white rice and therefore much more nutritious.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Garlic

Garlic has the reputation of a cure-all in folk medicine and has been proven to help develop resistance to infection. Garlic contains allicin, which act as a natuaral antibiotic and antifungal, and it is also high in antioxidants. Worshipped by the Ancient Egyptians, chewed by the Greek athletes and essential for keeping vampires at bay. Garlic is also good for zapping bacteria, maintaining a healthy heart and warding off colds.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Salmon

Salmon provides a good source of essential fats that support brain function and the immune system. Indeed, it is thought that the essential fatty acids in oily fish may help children who suffer from dyslexia or dyspraxia. An oily fish such as salmon should be included in all of our diets at least once a week.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Bread

Breads are now available in a staggering variety. When choosing bread, choose ones that are made from wholemeal or whole grains. These breads contain all the goodness of the complete wheat busk and wheatgerm, are higher in fibre and a good source of B vitamins. Brown and white breads have had a lot of goodness leached from them in the processing.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Pasta

Pasta is a great energy food, packed full of carbohydrate, which is broken down to supply all the cells in our bodies with fuel. Sixty percent of the adult diet should be carbohydrate and introducing starchy type foods early on is a good idea.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Eggs

Eggs provide an excellent source of protein, zinc and vitamin A, D, E and B12. Don't worry about the cholesterol - although they are high in cholesterol it has very little effect compared to things like obesity and smoking.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Avocados

Avocados are sometimes thought of as a vegetable but they are actually a fruit and contain more nutrients than any other fruit. Avocados have the highest protein content of any fruit and are rich in monounsaturated fat, the 'good' type of fat, which helps prevent heart disease. The high calorie content of avocado makes them a good food for growing children.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful pigment important in the prevention of cancer. Men who have a high level of lycopene in their fat stores are half as likely to have a heart attack.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Spinach

Spinach is rich in chlorophyll, the green pigment found in plants which helps prevent and treat anaemia. Spinach is a good source of betacarotene and vitamin C so do not overcook it or will destroy a lot of its content. But despite popular opinion - and Popeye - it is not a particularly good source of iron.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Oats

Oats help stabilise blood sugar and help to give long lasting energy. They are also rich in a form of soluble fibre that protects intestinal surfaces and helps to keep the body's cholesterol levels down.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Prunes

Prunes are a good source of instant energy., fibre and iron. They help with constipation as they are natural laxative.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Strawberries

Strawberries contain more vitamin C than other berry fruits. 100g of it will give an adult almost twice the daily recommended amount. They are also a good source of fibre and betacarotene and can help protect the body against cancer.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Tofu

Tofu is soya bean curd made from soya milk. It is a perfect vegetarian source of protein and rich in many nutrients including iron, potassium and calcium. It is a good source of calcium and eating tofu may help to prevent certain form of heart disease and cancer.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Cauliflower

It provides a good source of vitamin C and also contains folic acid and glucostnolates, which are sulphurous compounds that help to protect against certain form of cancer.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

FIsh

Fish is an excellent low-fat source of protein and it is important to encourage a liking for fish earlyon. One of the best fish to introduce to young babies is plaice (flounder) as it purees to a smooth consistency. Fish should be cooked on the same day it is bought to retain its freshness. Cod is high in protein and vitamin B12.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Peas

Peas belong in the SuperVeggie league, being a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as folic acid and Bvitamins.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Frozen Vegetables

Frozen vegetables can be just as nutritious as fresh since they are frozen within hours of being picked, thus locking in vital nutrients. So frozen peas are good even for the youngest member of the family.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Cantaloupe (Rock) Melon

It is the most nutritious variety of melon. It is very sweet and rich in vitamin C and betacarotene.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Apricots

Apricots are a good source of betacarotene and also contain fibre.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Peaches

Peaches provide a good source of vitamin C and the soft flesh is easy to digest.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Broccoli

Broccoli is best steamed or microwaved as boiling in water halves its vitamin C content. If your baby isn't keen on the taste, mix it with a sweet-tasting vegetable like sweet potato, swede or butternut squash (pumpkin).

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Broccoli

Broccoli is a true superfood as it is a great source of vitamin C and also contains betacarotene, folic acid, iron, potassium and anti-cancer phytonutrients.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Bananas

Bananas are full of slow-release sugars, which provide sustained energy. They make perfect portable baby food as they come in their own easy-to-peel packaging. Theya are also good for the treatment of diarrhoea and constipation.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Pears

Pears are one of the least allergenic foods so they make great weaning food.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Papaya (pawpaw)

Papaya (pawpaw) flesh is easy to swallow so it makes ideal weaning food. It is rich in vitamin C and betacarotene. 75g (3 oz) of papaya will provide a young child's daily requirement of vitamin C. Papaya is also high in soluble fibre, which is important for normal bowel function. Papaya also contains enzymes, which aid digestion.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Apple

Apple pureeis very easy to digest, so makes great baby food. In America, the BRAT diet (that is banana, rice, apple and toast) is popular with doctors for the relief of diarrhoea. Pectin, the soluble fibre in apples, also helps fight against constipation.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Sweet Potato

Sweet potato comes in two varieties: orange-fleshed and creamy-fleshed. Both have red skins and both are good sources of potassium, vitamin C and fibre. However I prefer to use the orange-fleshed variet, which is also an excellent source of betacarotene. This helps to prevent certain types of cancer and mops up free radicals.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Butternut Squash (Pumpkin) or Pumpkin

Butternut Squash (Pumpkin) or Pumpkin are easily digested and rarely cause allergies, therefore they make perfect weaning food.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables make the best weaning food because of their naturally sweet taste and smoothed texture when pureed.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Carrots

Carrots are rich in betacarotene, the plant form of vitamin A, and make excellent weaning food as babies like their naturally sweet taste. Darker, older carrots contain more betacarotene than baby, new caroots.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Yogurts

There is alot of hype about good bacteria added to yogurts and drinks as it may help prevent the overgrowth of bad 'bugs' in our large intestines. But many 'live' yogurts contain bacteria that don't make it past the acid in our stomachs. Check that the yogurt contains Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

When Your Child Wants Tidbits

POtato crisps and corn snacks are all right as part of a balanced diet, but choose a variety made with natural ingredients (vegetable crisps are good) and preferably low-salt. Limit your child to three bags a week. Homemade popcorn is lower in fat and higher in fibre than potato crisps and similar snacks.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Give Snacks at Appropriate Time

Try to allow snacks only if more than an hour before the next meal so that children will still be hungry at mealtimes. Also try to restrict a snack to at least an hour after the last meal so that children don't get the idea that they can refuse a meal and then get something else to eat shortly afterwards.

Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Vegetables in Soup

There is always some nutrient loss when vegetables are cooked, particularly the water soluble vitamins B and C. However, when vegetables are cooked in stock to make soup, the liquid absorbs the water-soluble vitamins and as we end up consuming both the liquid and the vegetables, more of the original nutrient content is retained.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

When Baby Choke

If your baby chokes, do not try to fish the food from his mouth as you may only end up pushng it further down his throat.

Turn him face-down over your lap with his head lower than his stomach and slap him firmly between the shoulder blades to dislodge the food.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Potato

Peel potatoes just before cooking. Don't soak in water as they will then lose their vitamin C.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Baby Food Products

If it's made for babies will it be better for them? Just because something is marketed for babies doesn't necessarily mean it is going to be good for them. For example, many rusks contain more sugar than a doughnut, baby foods can be bulked out with starches and water, baby yogurts can contain a lot of sugar and many baby products are a lot more expensive than an equivalent non-baby item.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Replacing Milk with diluted Fruit Juice after Lunch

If you are worried that your baby is not eating enough, replacing a milk drink with diluted fruit juice at lunchtime can help. Choose a vitamin C-rich juice like orange juice or cranberry juice as this will help your baby absorb iron from his food.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Eggs

Babies under one year should only be given eggs if white and yolk are cooked until solid.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Vegetable Puree

Don't use too much water when boiling vegetables. Puree the vegetables with the cooking liquid as vitamins like vitamin C seep into the water.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Introducing New Food

Always introduce any new food to your baby at breakfast or lunch, never dinner. If she has an allergic reaction or tummy upset, it is less likely to occur in the middle of the night.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Infant Formula vs Breast Milk

Infant formula has similar amount of nutrients, minerals and vitamins to breast milk but none of the properties breast milk has to protect against infection. In breast milk, the amount of minerals available such as iron and zinc is excellent.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Food For Energy

If your child needs energy for a football match or sports day, it is best to give a meal based on foods that release sugar slowly into the bloodstream such as brown rice, pasta, wholegrain cereals, vegetables and fruit. A good snack might be peanut butter sandwiches on wholegrain bread or a banana.

Give water or pure fruit juice instead of soft drinks. The sugar in soft drinks could trigger low blood sugar, leaving your child feeling tired. After physical activity and particularly in hot weather don't let your child wait until he feels thirsty to give him a drink. The chances are that he will already be dehydrated.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Fruit or fruit Juice

It is best to eat the whole fruit rather than give fruit juice as this contains no fibre.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Vitamin C

Vitamin C levels are depleted during infections and higher doses may reduce symptoms of the common cold.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Potatoes

New potatoes in their skins contain more vitamin C than ordinary potatoes.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Vitamin Supplements

Vitamin supplements contain only a small proportion of the nutritional benefits available from fruit and vegetables.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

Facts about Tomato

For years nutritionists have emphasised the benefits of fresh fruit and vegetables. However, lycopene is easier for our bodies to absorb when the tomatoes have been processed or cooked with a little oil in foods like tomato soup or tomato sauce for pasta and - good news - even tomato ketchup is a good source.


Source of information: Book titled "SUPERFOODS for Babies and Children" by Annabel Karmel

BAKED MACARONI

PREPARATION TIME: 30 MINUTES

FREEZING: SUITABLE

2 cups (90 9/3 oz) macaroni
1 quantity Easy Spaghetti Sauce (see previous post)
6 eggs

Cook macaroni.
Lightly grease lasagne dish.
Cover with half the macaroni, then meat sauce, then remaining macaroni.
Pour beaten eggs over the top.
Bake at 200CC (400~F) for 1 hour.
Cut into squares.

EASY SPAGHETFI SAUCE

PREPARATION TIME: 1 5 MINUTES

FREEZING: SUITABLE

500 g (1 Ib) lean minced topside
1 to 2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
440 g (14 oz) canned tomato soup (salt reduced)

Brown meat with garlic and onion, add oregano, soup and half a can of water.
Stir. Cover and simmer 20 1minutes.
Serve with cooked spaghetti or use in lasagne or other pasta dishes.

HIDDEN TREASURES

PREPARATION TIME: 5 MINUTES

FREEZING: NOT SUITABLE

1 pocket bread
1 hard-boiled egg
2 lettuce leaves
2 slices tomato
1 teaspoon mayonnaise

Cut pocket bread in half crossways.
Slice egg and finely chop lettuce and tomato.
Pile ingredients into pocket and drizzle mayonnaise over the top.

Variation: Other filling ideas include chopped cold meat with tomato or fruit sauce, grated cheese, tuna with mayonnaise or chopped fresh fruit.

FussY, FussY, FussY

The content below is abstracted from the book BREAST BOTTLE BOWL.
Please feedback and discuss if you agree after reading.


MY CHILD WON’T DRINK MILK

Many children prefer it flavoured. Serve it as milk shakes, custard, use in soups, make white sauces, add to vegetables. Yoghurt and cheese are excellent substitutes for milk. If your child doesn’t enjoy cow’s milk, try a soy or a toddler milk that has added vitamins and minerals. If no dairy products are taken, your child may need a calcium supplement, see your doctor or dietitian.

**My Comment: I give my kids yogurt and they love it. I make the yogurt myself using a yogurt maker and the powder which you can buy from shops that sell baking necessaties. I personally visit Phoon Huat if you have heard of. It is a healthier choice to make the yogurt yourself as there's no artificial ingredients. All children love ice cream. I use yogurt to substitute ice cream and they love it the same. Ice cream contains large amount of sugar, should be taken moderately.


MY CHILD WON’T DRINK WATER

This is very common but it is important to encourage water intake. Serve it cold from the fridge — it tastes better this way — or as ice blocks or try a water purifier. If your child won’t drink plain water, try flavouring it with a slice of lemon, or use part of the daily fruit juice allowance and dilute with water. Cordial can also be used diluted 1:20.

**My Comment: I disagree with serving kids water from the fridge. As children has a lower ability to digest well, cold water will cause food in the body to solidify and makes them even tougher to digest. As a Chinese I still strongly believe warm water is the best. Flavouring with a slice of lemon and diluting with fruit juice can be an alternative. I disagree with cordial too, reason is also sugar content. If your home does not have filtered water, maybe you can consider getting one as it makes a great difference in the taste of your water. And definitely a worth investment for your child's health. My kids are drinking more water now eversince we installed a filter. Feel free to email me for further details about filtered water.


MY CHILD WON’T EAT VEGETABLES

Often children who will not eat cooked vegetables will enjoy them raw orb lanched as a snack. Use celery, carrot and salad vegetables. Fruits have the same nutrients as vegetables so are an excellent substitute. Small amounts of fruit and vegetable juices can also be given (restrict to 1—2 drinks per day).

**My Comment: My kids like most kids dislike vegetables. I used to make my eldest eat at least 1 stalk per meal. But that's definitely not enough. However it will be a stressful situation to force her to eat more. Fortunately a friend of mine recommended a health supplement which is equivalent to the amount of nutrients a child need from vegetables. It ends both my daughters and my ordeal! And the whole family is taking the supplement as well. Feel free to email me for details about the health supplement.

MY CHILD WON’T EAT MEAT

Many people feel that a meal is not a meal without meat: this is not true. The protein and iron in meat can also be found in wholegrain cereals and bread, eggs, milk products, legumes and ground nuts. Children love peanut butter and baked beans which are both good substitutes for meat. Many children don’t eat meat because they are unable to chew it properly until the second molars come through after 2 years. Serve meat soft, minced or finely chopped with gravy if your child has difficulty eating it— savoury minces and casseroles are usually well-liked.

**My Comment: I'd learnt from a nutritionist that meat is not essential. I personally have not much knowledge about intake of meat as I am not a 'meat' person. Anyone out there can give some advice on this? Please email me your post or leave a comment. Thanks.

MY CHILD ONLY EATS WHITE BREAD

White bread is a nutritious food containing protein, complex carbohydrate, fibre, vitamins and minerals. For extra fibre (the same as in wholemeal), use the white high fibre loaves. Encourage your child to eat a variety of breads, but remember that many children do not like the grains in mixed grain breads nor the colour or texture of wholemeal breads. White bread is better than no bread.

**My Comment: Totally agree. In fact eating bread is even better than eating rice. For many chinese we are brought up in such a way that rice is very important in our meals. Many parents will make sure their kids eat at least a substantial amount of rice before they think is enough to call it a meal. Actually, rice contains mainly carbohydrates. Getting your child to eat lots of rice is just to ease our mind that they are full. Bear in mind that they know when they are full. After so much reading, I learnt to let my kids take charge. They make their own decision whether they are full (and they know there will be no substitute food after that). My youngest daughter loves soup. Sometimes she chose to just drink soup rather than eat rice. I let her. Till date, no more war during mealtimes, both mother and child are happy!

MY CHILD WON’T EAT ANY OF THE FOOD I PREPARE

Your child is going through a very common food fad stage. Prepare foods you know your child likes. Check that you are not over cooking vegetables and meat, that food looks attractive and serving sizes are not too big. Try wrapping sandwiches and putting them in a bag so your child thinks they are bought. Put the custard you have made in a washed yoghurt container. Try commercial children’s cuisine — excellent in nutrition, flavour and texture for children 18 months to 5 years and a great, cheap substitute when children go through this phase. Or use commercial foods as a base and add your own extras.

**My Comment: Totally agree. Serving size is very important. Do not place a BIG bowl of rice, porridge, cereal, etc,. in front of your child and expect her to finish it. To be able to finish the last bit on the plate is a great satisfaction for a child and will thus boost up his/her moral. Therefore, serving in small quantity will encourage them to finish what's in their plate everytime it's served. They can always ask for a second serving if they want. And I'm sure you'll be grinning while getting that second serving! This works perfectly for my daughters.

MANAGING FOOD REFUSAL

I read this from a library book I borrowed recently. Title of the book is BREAST BOTTLE BOWL by ANNE HILLIS & PENELOPE STONE.

Nobody says that managing food refusal is a breeze, but you can make it easier on yourself by following these tips:

• Ensure your child is hungry before mealtimes. Fresh air, exercise and sleep help stimulate good appetites — make sure your child is getting plenty of each.

• Make mealtimes sociable, happy occasions and keep the atmosphere peaceful. Avoid eating in front of the TV, while the radio is on or while reading, and don’t play games while eating. Make sure your child sits down to eat, as eating on the run can be dangerous.

• Use suitable feeding equipment fork, spoon, plate, cup. Let your child go with you to buy his feeding equipment. Provide a bib, especially for the messy eater. A highchair or small table and chair are essential.

• Children are creatures of habit and routine. Make sure meals and snacks are at regular times throughout the day.

• Don’t get cross with a child if he doesn’t eat. If anger is associated with meals, he will be even less inclined to eat. And do not prolong mealtime. if your child refuses to eat, quietly remove the food and allow him to leave the table.

• If your child has refused a meal, avoid offering substitute foods. Wait until the next scheduled meal or snack.

• Never insist that a child finishes everything on his plate. Remember, children know when they have had enough.

• Let children select the foods they wantfrom what is offered. This makes them feel grown-up.

• Don’t worry about mess and spills. Cover the floor under the highchair and table with an old sheet or plastic table cloth so that mess is easily cleaned up.

• Encourage meals with the family where possible and practical - this is a special treat for most toddlers.

• Let your child help with food preparation. He can watch as you prepare vegetables, let him add herbs and spicesto sauce and taste them for flavour. Most children from age 3 can help with measuring, pouring, stirring, kneading, decorating and arranging food on a plate. Children love to prepare sandwiches, make simple pizzas and peel their own bananas. Talk about the food as you prepare it.

• Encourage your child to try new foods. This is made easier by letting him help preparethem when possible. New food are best introduced when a child is hungry. Show your pleasure when he eats and likes a new food.

• Don’t influence your child into your own likes and dislikes. Set an exampleby eating the same food without commenting that you may not like it.

• Don’t bribe with special foods or dessert. This only makes these foodsmore ‘special’ than other foods.

• Stick to one-course meals and only offer desserts on special occasions.If the child refuses the food offered, accept that the meal is over.

VEGETABLE CHIPS

PREPARATION TIME: 5 MINUTES

FREEZING: SUITABLE

small pieces carrot, celery and potato

Cut into straws.
Steam or microwave until tender.
Cool, then offer 1-2 each.
Store remainder in an airtight container in the fridge.

GREEN FINGERS

PREPARATION TIME: 5 MINUTES

FREEZING:SUITABLE

2 teaspoons mashed ripe avocado
1 slice thick toasting bread

Toast bread and allow to cool.
Spread with mashed avocado.
Cut into three fingers.
Offer one finger at a time.

Delicious snack for mum too!

CREAMY RICE WITH BANANA

PREPARATION TIME: 5 MINUTES

FREEZING:NOT SUITABLE

1 tablespoon cooked rice
1 tablespoon whole milk yoghurt
1/2 large or 1 small banana
cinnamon (optional)

Mash banana into small lumps.
Mix with yoghurt and cooked rice.
Place half the quantity in baby’s serving bowl and refrigerate the remainder in a small airtight container for up to 48 hours.

Variation: Substitute pureed pears or apples for banana. Try adding cinnamon.

FISH PUREE

PREPARATION TIME: 10 MINUTES

FREEZING: SUITABLE

1 fillet of fish
2 tablespoons mashed potato

Steam fish until tender.
Puree in food processor.
Add mashed potato.
Thin with a little boiled water.
Serve 1/2_1 teaspoon at first and freeze the remainder in small portions in an ice cube tray.

THESE FOODS COULD BE DANGEROUS FOR A YOUNG

Honey

REASON TO BE AVOIDED: Danger of infection from botulinium spores unless sterilised. After 12months children are less likely to be affected. Only sterilised honey is allowed in commercial baby foods in Australia. Most honey boughtin the supermarket is not sterilised. Never put honey on a baby’s dummy as it will cause tooth decay.

Tea

REASON TO BE AVOIDED: The tannin and other compunds in tea interfere with the absorption of iron and other minerals. It also displaces breast milk or formula in baby’s diet. Never give tea in baby’s bottle.

Nuts

REASON TO BE AVOIDED: Avoid all foods with nuts including nut butters (peanut, hazelnut etc) if there are allergies in the family Whole nuts should be avoided until 5 years as babies can inhale them and can’t chew them properly and can choke.

Cow’s milk

REASON TO BE AVOIDED: Avoid cow’s milk and dairy foods if there is a history of cow’s milk allergy in the family. Cow’s milk is not suitable for babies under 12 months because it does not have the correct nutritional composition. Breast milk or infant formula provide babies with most of their nutrition until they are eating a variety of foods. Low fat milks Fat is essential for growth in babies and young children and full fat milk is a good source of fat until 5 years. Reduced fat milks can be used after 2 years.


Raw apples, raw carrots and celery, nuts, popcorn, sausages. All these foods require good chewing. Babies and young children are not always able to chew foods properly and there is a danger of choking on these foods. Leave these until 5 years.

Fish Bone Soup

300g fish bones
100g beancurd
50g salted preserved mustard
1 carrot, wedged
1 tomato, wedged
1 tomato, wedged
3 slices old ginger
2 tablespoons oil
1.7 litres (10 cups) water
pinch of salt (optional)

1. Clean and wash the fish bones. Drain. Rinse and drain beancurd.
2. Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add 2 teaspoons salt and boil the salted preserved mustard for 10 mins. Discard the water and rinse and drain the preserved mustard.
3. Bring 1.6 litres of water to a boil in a clean pot.
4. While the water is being boiled, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok. When the oil is smoking add the slices of old ginger and fry till fragrant. Then add the fish bones and fry till both sides are light goldern brown.
5. Put the fried fish bones and the ginger into boiling water. Also add the beancurd, preserved mustard and carrot.
6. Cover the pot and boil over high heat for 15 mins and then bring the heat to low to simmer. After 1 and half hours, add tomato wedges and simmer for another hour.
7. Taste and add salt if required.
8. Please sieve the soup stock before feeding the soup to young children.

Chinese Barley Water ( For Newborn & Infant )

20g Chinese raw barley
20g Chinese pan-fried barley
50g candied winter melon strips
10g Juncus decipiens
1.7 litres (10 cups) water

1. Bring 1.7 litres water to boil in a pot.
2. Rinse the two types of barley and herbs together and drain.
3. Put the rinsed ingredients with the candied winter melon strips into boiling water and bring to a boil again.
4. Lower heat and with the lid of the pot slightly open, simmer the contents over medium-low heat for 1 and half hours.
5. Strain and discard the solid ingredients. The barley water should be served warm.

Hairy Marrow Soup

2 Hairy Marrow
200g pork ribs
100g lean pork
6 red dates, stoned
1 slice old ginger
1.5 litre (9 cups) water

SEASONING
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon light soy

1. Wash and skin the marrows. Cut off and discard the ends. cut each marrow into five sections.
2. Wash the pork ribs and lean meat, then scald them in boiling water for 3 mins. Rinse and drain.
3. Bring 1.5 litres of water to a boil. Add all the ingredients and keep boiling over high heat for 15 mins.
4. lower the heat, cover the pot and simmer the soup for 2 and half hours. Add seasoning before serving.

Chinese Spinach Soup

200g Chinese Spinach
100g minced pork
1 slice old ginger
1 clove garlice, skinned and crushed
1 tablespoon oil
1 teaspoon salt
600ml (3 cups) hot water

MARINADE FOR MINCED PORK
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon light soy
1 teaspoon cornflour

1. Wash and the pluck Chinese Spinach into 5cm (2 inch) lengths. Rinse and drain.
2. Marinate minced pork. Take a teaspoon of minced pork and mould it into a meatball. Repeat with remaining minced meat. Set aside.
3. Heat a tablespoon of oil in apot. When the oil is hot, put in the ginger and garlic and saute for a min. Put in the Chinese Spinach and stir-fry for 2 mins.
4. Add the 600 ml of hot water into the pot and bring contents to a boil over high heat. Keep boiling, with pot covered, for another 15 mins.
5. Add meatballs and simmer the soup for a further 10 mins.
6. Season with the teaspoon of salt. Serve warm.

Egg Custard Porridge

1 egg
3 half egg shells of water
1/4 teaspoon oil
1 portion plain rice porridge

SEASONING
pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon light soy

1. Prepare a portion of the plain rice porridge.
2. Break the egg into a bowl and add 3 half egg-shells of water. Beat the mixture with a fork or chopsticks for 2 mins and then add the seasoning. Continue to beat the mixture for another min until it is slightly creamy.
3. Oil the base and sides of a shallow dish with the 1/4 teaspoon oil. Pour the beaten egg mixture into the dish and skim off bubbles, if any.
4. Prepare a steamer and steam the egg mixture over high heat for 3 mins. Reduce the heat to low and continue steaming for another 10 mins. Remove the egg custard from the steamer and set aside.
5. When the plain porridge is ready, scoop a few tablespoons into a small bowl. Add the same amount of egg custard into the porridge, break it up and mix well.
6. Cool the porridge till it is lukewarm and serve.

MInced Pork and Carrot Porridge

20g lean minced pork
20g finely grated carrot
1 portion plain rice porridge

MARINADE
pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon light soy

1. Prepare a portion of the plain rice porridge.
2. While the porridge is cooking, prepare the meat and vegetable, put the minced pork in a bowl and marinate for 5 mins.
3. When the plain porridge is ready, add the grated carrot and cook for 10mins.
4. Add the marinated minced pork and stir well until the pork is thoroughly cooked. Stir and further break up the minced meat against the pot with the back of a ladle. Leave to cook for another 5 mins.
5. Cool the porridge till it is lukewarm and serve.

Fish and Chinese Spinach Porridge

20g white fish fillet (Threadfin is preferred)
20g Chinese spinach
1 Portion plain rice porridge

SEASONING
pinch of salt
1/2 teaspoon light soy
1/4 teaspoon oil

1. Prepare a portion of plain rice porridge.
2. While the porridge is cooking, prepare the fish and vegetables.
3. Wash and pat dry the fish fillet thoroughly. Slice the fish finely and marinate it with the seasoning for 3 mins.
4. Clean, wash and drain the Chinese Spinach. Chop vegetables finely.
5. When the plain porridge is ready, add the chopped spinach and leave to cook for 5 mins.
6. Now stir in the marinated fish fillet and leave to cook for another 2 mins. Stir the porridge well so that the fish is broken up.
7. Cool the porridge till is lukewarm and serve.

Malt Paste

2 tablespoons rice cereal or malt powder
4 tablespoons formula milk or boiled water

1. Measure the rice cereal or malt powder in a bowl and slowly pour in the warm formula milk or water.
2. Blend the ingredients well to make a fine paste.
3. Feed baby in small spoonfuls.

Sweet Potato Puree

1 sweet potato (approx, 100g)

Clean and wash the sweet potato. Do not remove the skin.
Steam the whole sweet potato for 15mins or till cooked.
Peel the sweet potato by hand and mash the flesh before pushing it through a sieve to make a fine puree.
If the sweet potato is too dry, a few drops of lukewarm water may be added to make a smoother consistency.

Suitable for Newborn & Infant.

Papaya Puree

1 Piece of Papaya (approx. 100g)

1. Remove the seeds from the papaya and use a spoon to scrape the flesh of the fruit thinly.
2. Put the scraped papaya flesh into a bowl and mash finely. Then press the flesh through a sieve to obtain a puree.

Can apply the same steps on apples.

Suitable for Newborn & Infants.

Why NOT Cow's Milk?

Not sure if many of you heard about Cow's Milk is NO GOOD? The first thing that pops into my mind is "Then what should I feed my baby with?" For decades human grew up drinking milk. Next to breast milk is definitely cow's milk. And as the technology advances, scientists multiply, new shocking discoveries reveal.

I did some read up on this topic, but I'm not going to type all the details which includes all the profound terms used in the milk content. I shall simplify it in layman term.

I'll start of with quotes from my friend Joelle

" Cow has a BIG BODY but small brain."
"Which animal on earth drinks another species milk?"

As we all know breast milk is the BEST! The summary I gathered will be a minimum of 6 months of breastfeeding for your infant will be ideal. Of course don't stop there if you can afford! Nothing can replace breast milk and best of all, it's free! Ever wonder why are we always hovering over sales and free stuffs when breast milk is free and we goes for the most expensive formula on the shelf?

Back to why cow's milk is not good, briefly I read was "Milk and dairy products are acid-forming and mucus-producing substances that provide the ideal bodily environment for many children and adults to experience increased frequency of colds and flues." and also "There is a tremendous difference between human babies and baby calves and a corresponding difference between the milk intended to nourish human babies and baby calves. It takes about 180 days for a human infant to double its birth weight, and human milk is five to seven percent protein. It takes only 45 days for a calf to double its birth weight and cow's milk is 15 percent protein. This protein in cow's milk is of a different composition than that of human milk and is poorly assimilated in the human body. The primary type of protein in cow's milk is casein. According to Dr. John R. Christopher, N.D., M.H., there is up to 20 times more casein in cow's milk than human milk which makes the nutrients in cow's milk difficult (if not impossible) for humans to assimilate. (*Note: I was told that casein is one of the ingredient to make super glue!)

For more details please refer to this link: http://www.mercola.com/2000/feb/27/no_milk.htm

Lists of nutritious food for different age group.

I try to make it a weekly routine to bring my kids to the library and always seize the opportunity to grab some recipe books especially for kids. I will then browse through and select those I like or worth trying. Next I scan them and store in my laptop so that I don't have to worry when the book is due for return. With almost 30 recipes in a book at least, you won't be able to try out each of them. By scanning it allows flexibility for us to explore them better.

The following are lists of nutritious food suitable for varous age group. From Infant to Primary Schooler. I got these lists from one of the library book I borrowed. Title of the book is Nutritious Chinese Food for INFANTS, CHILDREN & YOUTH by Ng Siong Mui.

Nutritious Ingredients for
Newborn & Infants

FRUITS
Apple, Orange, Papaya, Pear, Grape

MEAT & SEAFOOD
Pork, Liver, Beef, Fish

VEGETABLES
Spinach, Chinese Spinanch, Hairy Marrow, Cauliflower, Tomato, Sweet Potato, Carrot

MISCELLANEOUS
Egg, Beancurd, Pearl Barley, Chinese Barley

Nutritious Ingredients for Children
Aged One to Three

MEAT & SEAFOOD
Pork, Beef, Chicken, Liver, Fish, Prawn

VEGETABLES
Carrot, Mushroom, Green pea, Long Bean, Spinach, Tomato, Potato, Hairy Marrow, Lettuce, Sweet Potato, Mustard Greens, Water Chestnut, Chinese Pear

MISCELLANEOUS
Egg, Beancurd, Sea Moss, Flat Rice Noodle, Oatmeal, Red Bean, Pearl Barley, Chinese Barley, Nuts

Nutritious Ingredients for Children
Aged Four to Six

SEAFOOD & MEAT
Fish, Prawn, Squid, Crab Meat, Sea Cucumber, Pork, Beef, Chicken, Pigeon

VEGETABLE
Watercress, Mushroom, Pea Shoot, Green Pepper, Lotus Root, Chinese Chive, Water Chestnut, Celery, Carrot, Green Pea, Straw Mushroom, Baby Sweetcorn, French Bean, Beansprout, Bitter Cabbage Hearts, Medlar Leaves, Mustard Greens, Sweet Corn

MISCELLANEOUS
Egg, Quail Egg, Beancurd, Noodles, Macaroni, Mungbean Vermicelli, Korean Ginseng, Snow Fungus, Bird's Nest, Medlar Seeds, Snow Frog Gland, Euryale Ferox, Lotus Seed, Lilium Brownii, Pearl Barley, Ginko Nuts

Nutritious Ingredients for Children
Aged Seven to Nine

SEAFOOD & MEAT

Fish, Prawn, Squid, Sea Cucumber, Pork, Beef, Chicken, Pigeon, Duck, Frog

VEGETABLES

Hairy Marrow, Mushroom, Green Pepper, Red Pepper, Asparagus, Chestnut, Beansprout, Blanched Chinese Chive, Water Chestnuts, French Bean, Long Bean, Iceberg Lettuce, Bitter Mustard Grens

MISCELLANEOUS

Egg, Beancurd, Sea Moss, Rice Vermicelli, 'Mouse Tail' Noodle, Flour Vermicelli, Walnut, Salted Egg, Century Egg, Duck Gizzard, Prince's Ginseng, Dried Scallop, Shrimp Roe

Objective of this Blog: To share our little precious' eating habits.

The objective of this Blog is to share my experience with people like myself, having a tough time getting the kids to eat. And I mean proper meals not snacks or tidbits! It is really disheartening when you had planned a meal which you think it is so nutritious, so delicious and interesting, and the moment you place the dish in front of your child, all he/she does is frown.



I'm sure many of you out there had experienced it or still experiencing it. I totally understand how it feels. The frustrations get worse if there's no one around you to share. I used get alot of consolation from the net, from people sharing the same experiences. I find it helpful cos they will also share their ways of solving the problem. Different kids behave differently. So you have to try different methods on your child before you choose the right way for him/her.



In this Blog I will share the advices I get from helpful people through the journey of bringing up my kids. I will also share recipes and ideas on how to make the kids' meal more interesting and yet maintain its nutritious value.

I also welcome your valuable feedback, advice and even recipes! Let's make this a mommies' forum and strive to bring our little ones the best!

Introducing... Joey and Chloe!

For a start, I would like to introduce the two main characters of this Blog. They are none other than my girls, Joey and Chloe.

Joey is four this year (2007). She was born pretty small (2.4kg) reason due to a fibroid that I had while conceiving her. But Thank God she is completely healthy. She is a real chatterbox and a keen learner. She wants to learn almost anything. Till date she is taking up Ballet Class, Art & Craft, Speech & Drama and Piano. I had always think why are those parents out there making their child so busy taking up courses and restrict their playtime. Now that my child is 4, I realised it might not be the parents in every case. In my case, Joey is the one who wants it and she simply enjoys it. And as a mother, I would definitely support her as long as is within my means. :)

Okay, touching the real topic on this Blog now. Apart from being a bubbly, chatty and curious little vainpot, one thing that really gives me a headache everyday is her diet. As you can see from the title, Fussy Little Diners!

Chloe just turned two this month (Aug 2007). Terrible Two! Oh she is a complete opposite from her sister right from birth! She was born huge! 4.1kg! I still couldn't recall how I managed to squeeze her out. Haha! She is loud and active. She loves to run and climb and jump. She started her first step as early as 10month old and speak almost fluently as early as 14th month old. She is a super learner. With her older sister by her side everyday, her knowledge is almost equivalent to a four year old. Many strangers couldn't believe she is only two and some even thought both girls are twins! Haha. She is much tougher than Joey and thus bullies Joey alot but I'm sure she will be protecting her sister as they grew older. :)

And yes, she is a Fussy Diner too!!