Cooking Together As A Family Has Benefits

Helping parents cook can be a fun educational opportunity for children and teens. The activity is engaging and will give them a sense of responsibility and accomplishment. And for parents, teaching their children how to cook a variety of meals can be an opportunity to bond with them.

Easter H. Tucker, interim family and consumer sciences program leader for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, said there are many healthy, easy-to-make meals families can make together while they are sheltered in place. She recommends individuals take advantage of the following tips from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to prepare nutritious meals on a budget: Plan.

Sit down at the computer with your family and pick a week’s worth of recipes on the USDA MyPlate website (www. choosemy plate.gov). Let each member of the family pick out a dish they would like to try.

Make a shopping list.

Remember to include snacks and beverages for the week. Focus on healthier foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, dairy and protein foods (meats, beans, eggs, etc.). Buy foods that cost less all year long.

Beans and eggs are low-cost, healthy protein foods. Frozen vegetables are also good low-cost choices. Stock your kitchen, but do not overbuy.

To make sure healthy ingredients are on-hand for future meals, individuals can also buy canned beans, fish and low-sodium vegetables and soups, as well as wholegrain pasta, brown rice and quick-cooking oats. Store fresh foods right away.

Use fresh fruits and vegetables and milk quickly to prevent spoilage. Always buy in-season produce as it costs less.

Tucker reminds individuals to wash their hands before and after handling foods. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is also important to wash hands after unloading groceries. Before cooking, individuals should clean kitchen surfaces such as countertops, cabinet handles, doorknobs and light switches.

“When it’s time to prepare a meal, create tasks for family members of all ages,” Tucker said. “Older children can actually help cut, slice and dice. The younger ones can rinse fruits and vegetables, add ingredients, and help set, clear and wipe the table.”

It is important to look for ways to satisfy the tastes of both parents and their children. For instance, if children prefer plain vegetables, meat or noodles, set some aside before adding other ingredients.

For recipe ideas, nutrition information and shopping tips, visit www.choosemy plate.gov.