With the Autumn term approaching parents shouldn't feel disconcerted about serving the most naturally valued "brain food" around. A lean source of protein that is high in Omega-3 fatty acids, fish contains all the nutrients to regulate the blood and cardiovascular system whilst also stimulating cell re-growth – vital for children. Many food producers hide the flavours of fish with battered substitutes for fear of a negative response to a natural sea taste from its young audience. But you can make organic dishes child-friendly too.
The assumption that fish should taste "fishy" is a myth disguised by the poor handling of products. If the fish is fresh it should have little smell. And whilst the produce should be as local as possible a nod towards the Swedish way of baking fish on a bed of greens in a prettily tied parcel is a fantastic way to include your kids in the cooking process.
This wonderfully versatile method will encourage the pickiest of eaters to get their Omega-3 intake. Three steps to achieving a simple Swedish supper:
- Pre-boil some baby new potatoes before slicing them in half lengthways and prep any vegetables desired. For example, sprouting broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and French beans all provide delicious accompaniments to fish.
- Take your fish, which can be filleted by your fishmonger (good suggestions are salmon, arctic char, and trout), and season with lemon, salt and pepper. Fish steams itself whilst baking inside the parcel so olive oil isn't necessary making the dish extra healthy!
- Cut an A3 size piece of grease-proof paper and fold it in half before placing your prepared ingredients on top. Then simply close the package with string and pop it in the oven or over a barbeque.
Top Tip: To eliminate any seafood odours, just cut a lemon in half and rub it over your hands, plus over any knives and chopping boards you've been using.
