Healthy recipe for kids - Veggie stir fry

As parents, ensuring that our kids receive the best nutrition is one of our top priorities. A significant part of that comes from what we cook and how we cook it. With the growing awareness of the importance of using healthier cooking oils, wood pressed oils are becoming an increasingly popular choice. These oils, extracted through a traditional method using a wooden press, retain all the essential nutrients and natural flavors, making them a perfect option for preparing healthy meals for children.

In this blog, we'll explore the benefits of cooking with wood pressed oil, how it contributes to children's health, and offer a simple, nutritious recipe that kids will love.

What is Wood Pressed Oil?

Wood pressed oil, also known as Lakdi Ghana oil, is produced by a slow, traditional extraction method in which seeds (like sesame, groundnut, or mustard) are crushed using a wooden press. This method doesn’t use heat or chemicals, ensuring that the oil retains its natural antioxidants, vitamins, and beneficial fats. Since it doesn't involve high heat, it preserves natural flavors and keeps the nutrients intact. Wood pressed oils are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, polyphenols, and anti-inflammatory properties, all of which are essential for children’s growth and development.

Why Choose Wood Pressed Oil for Cooking Kids' Meals?

1. Rich in Essential Nutrients
   Wood pressed oils are packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins that are crucial for children’s development. The omega-3 fatty acids in these oils are beneficial for brain health and cognitive development, while antioxidants like vitamin E support a strong immune system and healthy skin.

2. Better Digestion
   The natural extraction method of wood pressed oils ensures that the oil retains its enzymes and nutrients, promoting better digestion in kids. Healthy fats play a significant role in helping kids absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) from other foods.

3. Improved Heart Health
   Wood pressed oils like sesame oil and groundnut oil are rich in unsaturated fats, which help maintain good cholesterol levels, contributing to long-term heart health. Childhood obesity is not at all good.

4. No Harmful Chemicals
   Unlike refined oils that undergo bleaching and deodorizing processes, wood pressed oils are free from harmful chemicals, making them a natural and safe option for children. Their natural extraction method ensures that there are no additives or preservatives, providing a clean and healthy option for your family.

5. Tasty and Nutritious
   Wood pressed oils are known for their rich, natural flavor, which enhances the taste of food without overpowering it. Kids tend to enjoy food that tastes fresh and wholesome, and these oils bring out the best in your dishes.

Healthy Recipe for Kids: Veggie Stir-Fry with Wood Pressed Oil

This quick, nutritious, and colorful stir-fry is a kid-friendly dish that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with the rich taste of wood pressed oil. It’s easy to prepare and can be served with rice or as a standalone meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon wood pressed sesame oil (or groundnut oil)
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped capsicum / bell peppers (red, yellow or green)
• 1/2 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
• 1/2 tablespoon honey (optional, for a slight sweetness as per prefernce)
• A pinch of black pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Cooked rice (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all the vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps make it easier for your little ones to eat.

2. Heat the Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat the wood pressed sesame oil on medium heat. The oil will give the stir-fry a rich, nutty flavor that children will love.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: Once the oil is hot, add the grated ginger and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and corn to the pan. Stir fry the veggies for 5 minutes, soft but crispier outside.

5. Season the Stir-Fry: Pour in the soy sauce and honey (if using), and sprinkle a pinch of black pepper.

6. Ready to serve: After making sure vegetables are cooked as per your preference, it's ready to serve. Garnishing sesame seeds will give added texture and flavor. Serve the stir-fry with cooked rice or as is for a healthy and filling meal.

Why Kids Will Love It:

• Colorful and Fun: The bright colors of the vegetables make the dish visually appealing to kids, encouraging them to eat more.
• Mild Flavor: The natural flavor of wood pressed sesame oil adds a mild, nutty taste that kids will enjoy without overwhelming their senses.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out vegetables based on what your kids like, making this stir-fry adaptable to different tastes.

Conclusion

Cooking with wood pressed oil offers a fantastic way to provide your kids with healthy, flavorful, and nutritious meals. Not only does it contribute to their overall health, but it also enhances the taste of food, making it more enjoyable for even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re preparing a simple stir-fry or using it for salad dressings, wood pressed oils are a great addition to any kid-friendly kitchen.

By incorporating wood pressed oils into your cooking routine, you can ensure that your little ones receive the full benefits of these natural, nutrient-dense oils, helping them grow stronger and healthier. So, the next time you plan a meal for your child, consider reaching for wood pressed oil for a tasty, nutritious, and wholesome option!