5 Kid-Friendly Recipes Made With Cold-Pressed Oils

We all know the struggle: Feeding our kids healthy meals is some of the most challenging tasks that a parent has to do every so often. And the struggle is real, friends! What seems like healthy snacks recipes for kids might not be tasty for the kids, and what may be healthy might not look appetising! Now you know what we are talking about. 

But what if we told you that there is a way by which you could make snacks and other dishes that are not only healthy but delectable as well for those picky little eaters? Yes, the answer to all your problems is cold-pressed oils! Come, step right into the magical world!

These oils are made by extracting the fats from seeds and nuts under pressure, rather than applying heat or chemicals –which means they retain a host of flavours and micronutrients. They are easy to digest and are wonderful for adding a nutritious element to traditional Indian cuisines that kids would love to eat. 

Well then, say goodbye to unhealthy oils and hello to the healthier and tastier cold pressed oils!

The power of cooking with cold pressed oil:

Asking why cold pressed oils when cheaper and more easily available choices are there? Think again! 

• Flavour boost: Cold pressed oils are much healthier and have a much more potent flavour than the refined oils. This means a drop goes a long way, complementing the meals without overpowering the little ones’ taste buds.
• Nutrient powerhouse: These oils are power packed with essential fatty acids and fat soluble vitamins and minerals that your child requires for their proper physical development. So you can say that these oils are like small power houses full of goodness!
• Smoke point savvy: Cold-pressed oils have a lower smoke point than refined oils, making the perfect for dishes like stir-fries, drizzling, and adding a finishing touch. You can also use a few types of cold pressed oils for deep frying as well.

Coming to the availability part – to buy pure and chemical free cold pressed oils, all you need to do is to visit Gramiyaa’s online store! 

The best cold pressed oils for kid friendly recipes:

Cold pressed coconut oil:

This creamy oil adds a subtle sweetness and is perfect for stir-fries (think yummy veg pulao!), pancakes (sweet or savoury!), or even drizzled over roasted vegetables.

Cold pressed mustard oil:

This pungent oil adds a delightful kick to dishes. Use it sparingly (a little goes a long way!) in tempering for dal or curries. Remember, a little spice can be exciting for adventurous little eaters!

Cold pressed sesame oil:

This nutty-flavoured oil is a great finishing touch. Drizzle it over rice dishes like jeera rice or veg pulao for a burst of flavour. And let’s not forget about the good old idli podi!

Cold pressed groundnut oil:

This mild-flavoured oil is perfect for everyday cooking. Use it for sautéing vegetables, making parathas, or even preparing some egg bhurji.

Ready, set, cook! Healthy kid-friendly recipes Indian moms can easily make!

Now, let's put these fabulous oils to good use with some easy and fun recipes your little ones will love:

1. Smiley face veggie upma - 

This colourful and healthy kid friendly recipe is a guaranteed winner! Sauté chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans in a pan with groundnut oil, and some salt and turmeric. Add water double the amount of roasted semolina (rava) and let it come to a boil. Now add the rava and let it simmer. Once cooked, use a cookie cutter to shape the upma into smiley faces! Top with a dollop of ghee for a flavour punch.

2. Cheesy mini dosas -

These bite-sized wonders are perfect for dipping and dunking. Mix grated potato, grated cheese, chopped vegetables, and some seasoning of your choice. Make small, thin dosas on a cast iron pan with a little bit of cold pressed sesame oil. Top up the dosa with the above things. Serve with a yummy coconut chutney for dipping!

3. Eggy-fingers:

This is one easy-peasy recipe! Boil some eggs, and cut them into bite size fingers. Add some coconut oil to the skillet, and add a little bit of salt, some pepper and some pizza seasoning. Add the eggy fingers into this, and give it a nice toss. Cool down and serve to the little ones – these are not just cute to look at, but are amazingly tasty. And let’s not forget the protein punch these little things offer!

4. Sweet and yummy sesame seed laddoos:

Aaha… laddoos!  We bet even adults would love this recipe. These healthy snack balls are packed with flavour and fun to make together! Roast a mix of sesame seeds, cashews, and some other chopped nuts of your choice. Make a sticky mixture with jaggery or palm sugar, and a little of sesame oil to bind the ingredients together. Roll into bite-sized balls and enjoy a guilt-free sweet treat!

5. Sprouted moong dal cheela:

This protein-packed snack is perfect for after-school hunger pangs. Soak and sprout green moong dal (green gram). Grind the sprouts into a batter with a little yogurt and chopped vegetables. Cook small cheelas on a pan using a little bit of cold pressed coconut oil or groundnut oil. Serve with a side of chutney for dipping.

Remember, with a little creativity and lots of love, you can even create your own healthy kid-friendly recipes - Indian, western or even a fusion of many cuisines!

H3: Points to remember while making recipes for kids:

You might want to keep a few points in mind while trying to feed your little one - 

• Go slow while introducing new flavours and textures.
• Let your little ones help in the kitchen! It can make them more excited to try new dishes.
• Don't force it! If they are not liking a particular recipe, try again another time.
• Presentation is key! They love to eat with their eyes first!

Cooking with cold-pressed oils is a fantastic way to add both flavour and nutrition to your kids' meals. From the nutty taste of groundnut oil to the rich flavour of sesame oil, these oils can make everyday recipes exciting and healthy. Give these recipes a try and watch your kids enjoy every bite while getting the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.

Happy cooking, and happy eating! Gramiyaa would love to hear from you. Do comment below, and let us know what kind of recipes you prepare for your bundle of joy.