Simple Scratch Cooking For Healthier Families. Homemade meals and desserts can be easier to make than you think and good for your family.
There's a quick and easy way to help your kids become happier and healthier-try planning and preparing a meal together.
Cooking as a family activity is fun and can be surprisingly quick. In fact
preparing a satisfying meal or dessert from scratch can take less time than dining out. The time it takes to decide where to eat
get everyone ready
drive there and be seated
order and finally eat
takes much longer than you think. The time could be better spent with your loved ones with everyone helping to get the food on the table.
Another benefit of scratch cooking is that it allows you to better control the types of ingredients you consume. As people look for ways to avoid trans fats and food allergens
reduce sugar and salt consumption
and increase whole grains
fruits and vegetables in their diets
making dishes from scratch has been "rediscovered." And the delicious results will please the entire family
especially when you prepare it together.
Start with the proper planning and make sure to stock your pantry and freezer with fresh ingredients for simple and healthful dishes. For example
before baking muffins
breads or cookies
make sure you have checked your baking powerhouses-baking soda and baking powder
as well as spices
cornstarch and flour. Replace any that are a year old. If in doubt
start new and date each item to make sure you'll be reminded next year.
Here's an easy whole grain oatmeal cookie to try:
Spicy Oatmeal Cookies
1 cup butter
softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
11/2 cups all-purpose flour
11/2 teaspoons Clabber Girl or Rumford baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
11/2 cups quick-cooking (not instant) oats
8 oz. raisins
11/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon allspice
Preheat oven to 375ฐ F. In large mixing bowl
cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs
one at a time
beating well after each addition. Scrape down sides. Beat in vanilla. In medium bowl
combine flour
baking powder
baking soda and salt. Add to butter mixture and stir until blended. Stir in oats
raisins
cinnamon and allspice. Drop by rounded tablespoonsful (about 1/4 cup) onto greased baking sheets. Bake until firm to a light touch
about 15 minutes. Cool on wire rack.
Makes about 3 dozen cookies.