May 31, 2017

Toddler turkey, carrot, and apple meatballs

Bowl of toddler turkey, carrot, and apple meatballs.

I can't believe my babies are already 10 months old! They are getting so big and learning so many new things all the time. They like being outside right now and going for walks in the stroller. We recently tried the baby swings at the park, which they really enjoyed. But, what they really love right now is food. They are interested in trying everything and want to grab and eat all that they see! They still like their homemade purées, especially with oatmeal or whole milk Greek yogurt. They prefer chunkier foods now though and are trying more finger and table foods all the time. I bought some frozen turkey meatballs and they really enjoyed those, so I decided to make a homemade version that is a little healthier for them. I still cut/break up these meatballs into smaller pieces for them at this point. They are picking up those pieces and feeding themselves.... a messy, but fun, time.

This recipe will make about 27ish meatballs. You can freeze them (place on a clean baking sheet in the freezer just until frozen and then place them all in a freezer bag) and then defrost in the refrigerator as needed. Heat them up in the oven or microwave, or even in an alfredo sauce. They can be eaten cold as well. The spices below are what I used, but you can use so many others like thyme, nutmeg, allspice, parsley, coriander, ginger, and others -- whatever flavors and combinations you want! They are also delicious for adults too - I've popped more than one in my mouth! 

Cup open turkey, carrot, and apple meatballs.

May 23, 2017

Rhubarb sour cream bread

  Loaf of sour cream rhubarb quick bread.

Sour rhubarb and tangy sour cream are combined in this quick bread that is lightly spiced with a bit of ground ginger for a delicious springtime or early summer snack! 

May 11, 2017

Beyond strawberry rhubarb pie: A rhubarb recipe round-up

Rhubarb stalks. 
 
Rhubarb season is here and there are so many ways to enjoy this tart seasonal vegetable. Strawberry rhubarb pie is the most popular, but there are so many other ways to use it.

May 3, 2017

Homemade baby food purées (advanced; part two)

Potato, broccoli, and cheddar mash in a bowl.
Golden potato, broccoli, & cheddar mash (Boil in water - 1 peeled and chopped golden/yellow potato and 1/3 cup frozen broccoli florets until soft. Drain. Mash with 1/3 cup grated white cheddar cheese and milk to your desired consistency). I don't like to puree potatoes as they tend to become gummy.
 
Ours twins are starting to move on to chunkier purées and some more finger foods now. They have entered the "Stage 3" baby food time. Now we are incorporating more textures.