Here’s a question for you: do you hide vegetables in your kids’ food?
As a Registered Dietitian parents often ask ‘is it OK for me to hide vegetables?’ or ‘my kids won’t eat anything green so I wind up hiding it where I can.’ While I am not going to offer parenting tips here [I’m just here talking about food!], I think this is a personal choice for a lot of families. And many parents hide fruits and vegetables until they feel their children are ready for them straight up. With that being said, I do feel compelled to stress the importance of a well balanced diet – and this includes getting a variety of healthy fats, whole grains, lean meats and of course, fruits and vegetables.
Eating colorfully is not only for sound nutrition [though it is very healthy!] but it also introduces kids to foods they may not have known they loved. Your daughter might love Brussels sprouts when they are roasted in the oven with olive oil and garlic, and your son might devour grilled asparagus with lemon and parmesan cheese. But, if parents hide these foods, children may take longer to be comfortable with them. Ultimately it’s a choice each family will make on their own. And in time, most kids grow to have a diverse palate. Just remember: it’s the long term habits that really affect people, not short-term, one-off instances.
OK – onto the fun stuff! I know you’re here for the food! This recipe is for a wheat-free brownie made with a secret ingredient: black beans! In this particular recipe, the black bean’s flavor is completely indistinguishable. But, its nutritional benefits are there in full force, namely protein and fiber! So grab a blender or food processor and get to work!
These Gluten Free Black Bean Brownies are rich and decadent with a fudge-like texture. I’d love to hear from you if you make them at home. Hope you enjoy!
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