Culinary Q & A

Q:  I’d like to introduce my kids to barley.  How can I get them excited about this healthful grain?

A:  Encouraging kids to eat barley is an important step in ensuring a lifetime of healthful dietary habits.  But introducing any new food to the younger crowd may be easier said than done.  Here are a few tips on how to get youngsters on the healthful barley bandwagon:

• One step at a time - Introduce barley gradually into your meal plans.  Don’t overwhelm kids with too much too soon.  One new taste in a meal is plenty for most young diners.
• Focus on kid-favorites - Serve barley with foods that are familiar and enjoyable to youngsters.  For example, add a cup of cooked pearl barley to prepared tomato soup and serve with a peanut butter or grilled cheese sandwich for a child-friendly lunch.  Or for a hardier soup idea, treat your kids to Frank ‘n Barley Soup: In a medium saucepan, sauté sliced frankfurters in vegetable oil just until browned.  Add 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) tomato soup, a soup can of water and 2/3 cup of cooked pearl barley.  Heat through and serve with a side of crunchy apple slices.  Ymmmm!
• Be patient - Accepting new tastes and textures may take time for some children, so a good dose of patience may be in order.  Remember, if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again!

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