This recipe is perfect for busy parents looking for a healthy and delicious snack that kids will adore. Made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients, this snack is packed with nutrients and is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why This Snack is Great:
- Kid-Friendly: With a mild and tasty flavor, this snack is perfect for picky eaters.
- Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables, protein from eggs and cheese, and the goodness of yogurt and milk.
- Easy to Make: Quick to prepare with just a few ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen.
- Affordable: Made with cost-effective ingredients, making it an economical choice for families.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 red pepper: Adds a sweet and slightly crunchy texture, along with a pop of color.
- 6 spring onions: Provides a mild onion flavor that’s not overpowering.
- 1 pinch of parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note and a boost of vitamins.
- 2 carrots: Grated for natural sweetness and added nutrition.
- 2 eggs: Acts as a binding agent and adds protein.
- 1 tea glass of yogurt (140 g): Adds creaminess and a slight tang, as well as calcium and probiotics.
- 1 tea glass of milk (100 ml): Adds moisture and richness, along with calcium.
- 1 small bowl of curd cheese (80 g): Contributes a creamy texture and extra protein.
- 3.5 cups of flour (420 g): Provides structure to the snack, making it soft yet firm.
- 1 pack of baking powder (10 g): Helps the snack rise, making it light and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon of salt (8 g): Enhances the flavor.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and finely chop the red pepper, spring onions, parsley, and carrots.
- Set the chopped vegetables aside.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, yogurt, and milk until smooth.
- Add the curd cheese to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Add the Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture.
- Mix until you have a smooth batter with no lumps.
- Incorporate the Vegetables:
- Fold the chopped red pepper, spring onions, parsley, and grated carrots into the batter.
- Stir until the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the snack is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before cutting it into squares or slices.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. This snack is delicious on its own or served with a side of yogurt or dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips:
- Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or corn to the mix for variety.
- Cheese Substitution: If you don’t have curd cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta or cottage cheese.
- Spice It Up: If your kids enjoy a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of black pepper or a small amount of paprika.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the snack in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: This snack freezes well. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven before serving.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Possible Questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
- Yes, whole wheat flour can be used to increase the fiber content, but the texture may be slightly denser.
- What other vegetables can I add?
- You can add any finely chopped vegetables you like, such as zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Can I make this snack gluten-free?
- Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make it gluten-free.
- How can I make this snack dairy-free?
- Substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free milk. You can also use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Conclusion:
This simple, nutritious snack is perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s easy to make, packed with vegetables, and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a lunchbox addition, or a light dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the ease and satisfaction of preparing a healthy snack that everyone will love!