Packing a nutritious and appealing lunch for children can be challenging, especially when they are picky eaters. If you're looking for healthy yet simple recipes, oats can be a fantastic choice. They are not only rich in essential nutrients but also versatile enough to be used in various dishes. Here are some easy and delicious oat-based recipes that can make your child's lunchbox both exciting and nutritious.
1. Masala Oats
Masala oats are a savory option packed with spices and vegetables, perfect for a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
2 cups rolled oats
2 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 medium tomato, finely chopped
Salt to taste
1 teaspoon red chili powder
¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Instructions:
Heat oil in a non-stick pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add green chilies and onions, and sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
Add tomatoes and salt, reduce the heat, cover, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
Stir in red chili powder and turmeric powder.
Add oats and 4 cups of water. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are cooked and the mixture thickens.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
2. Oats Dosa
Oats dosa is a crispy, savory pancake made with oats and lentils, ideal for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
1 cup urad dal (soaked for 2 hours and drained)
2 tablespoons chana dal (soaked for 1 hour and drained)
¼ teaspoon fenugreek seeds (soaked for 1 hour and drained)
1 cup oats
A little oil
Coconut chutney for serving
Instructions:
Blend the soaked urad dal, fenugreek seeds, and oats with 1 cup of water to form a smooth batter. Let it ferment for 6-8 hours.
Add salt to the batter and mix well.
Heat a non-stick griddle and pour a ladleful of batter onto it. Spread the batter in a circular motion to form a thin pancake. Drizzle a little oil around the edges.
Cook until the dosa turns golden brown and crispy, then fold it in half.
Serve hot with coconut chutney.
3. Vegetable Oats Pancake
Vegetable oats pancakes are a colorful and nutritious addition to your child's lunchbox.
Ingredients:
1 cup oats flour
½ cup grated carrots
½ cup finely chopped spinach
2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves
2 teaspoons finely chopped green chilies
Salt to taste
½ teaspoon fruit salt
1½ teaspoons oil
Instructions:
Combine oats flour, grated carrots, spinach, coriander leaves, green chilies, and salt in a large bowl. Add 1 cup of water and mix well to form a thick batter.
Just before making the pancakes, add fruit salt to the batter and mix gently.
Heat a non-stick griddle and brush it lightly with oil. Pour a spoonful of batter onto the griddle and spread it into a thick circle.
Drizzle a little oil on top and cook until the pancake turns golden brown on both sides.
Repeat with the remaining batter and serve hot with yogurt or mint chutney.
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