Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially for growing children. It provides the energy, nutrients, and focus they need for school, play, and cognitive development. While many parents struggle to create healthy yet appealing breakfasts, parathas—a type of indian flatbread—can be a versatile and nutritious option when prepared creatively.
By incorporating whole grains, vegetables, proteins, and mild spices, parathas can become a balanced and kid-friendly breakfast that kids will enjoy.
1. Why Parathas Are a Great Choice for Kids
Parathas are inherently flexible and can be adapted to include a wide range of nutrients:
· Carbohydrates: Provide energy for active mornings.
· Proteins: Stuffing with paneer, lentils, or eggs boosts growth and muscle development.
· Vitamins and Minerals: Adding vegetables like spinach, carrot, or beetroot increases intake of iron, vitamin A, and antioxidants.
· Healthy Fats: Cooking with minimal ghee or oil helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
Tip: The key is to balance stuffing and dough so that the paratha is healthy but still soft and palatable for children.
2. Nutritious Paratha Varieties for Kids
a) spinach and Paneer Paratha
· Ingredients: Whole wheat flour, chopped spinach, crumbled paneer, mild spices (cumin, salt).
· Benefits: Provides iron, calcium, and protein essential for growth.
· Tip: Chop spinach finely to avoid leafy texture that some kids may reject.
b) Carrot and cheese Paratha
· Ingredients: Grated carrot, shredded mild cheese, whole wheat dough, pinch of nutmeg.
· Benefits: Carrots add vitamin A, while cheese adds protein and calcium.
· Tip: Mild seasoning makes it appealing for picky eaters.
c) Moong Dal (Yellow Lentil) Paratha
· Ingredients: Cooked and mashed moong dal, spices like turmeric and cumin, whole wheat flour.
· Benefits: High in protein and fiber; helps in sustained energy release.
· Tip: Mash lentils very finely to maintain smooth texture kids prefer.
d) beetroot and Potato Paratha
· Ingredients: Boiled and mashed beetroot and potato, mild spices, wheat flour.
· Benefits: beetroot provides iron and antioxidants; potato adds natural sweetness.
· Tip: Bright pink color makes it visually appealing.
e) Mixed Vegetable Paratha
· Ingredients: Grated carrot, finely chopped beans, peas, capsicum, mashed potato, whole wheat dough.
· Benefits: Incorporates multiple nutrients in a single serving.
· Tip: Use finely chopped or grated veggies to ensure smooth texture.
3. Tips to Make Parathas Kid-Friendly
1. Soft Dough: Use warm water and knead dough well to make soft, non-chewy parathas.
2. Mild Flavors: Avoid strong spices; mild cumin, turmeric, or coriander work well.
3. Fun Shapes: Make parathas in stars, triangles, or stuffed rolls to engage children.
4. Serve with Dips: Yogurt, tomato ketchup, or mild chutneys make the meal more exciting.
5. Balanced Meal: Pair parathas with a glass of milk or fruit smoothie for a complete breakfast.
4. Nutritional Tips
· Whole Wheat Dough: Provides fiber for digestion and sustained energy.
· Minimal Oil: Use small amounts of ghee or oil to keep breakfast healthy.
· Protein Boost: Paneer, dal, or cheese stuffing adds essential amino acids.
· Vegetables: Finely grated or mashed veggies ensure children get essential vitamins without fuss.
Tip: Rotating different paratha varieties ensures children get a mix of nutrients and prevents breakfast boredom.
5. Sample Breakfast Routine Using Parathas
Monday: spinach and Paneer Paratha + Fresh Orange Juice
Tuesday: Carrot and cheese Paratha + Milk
Wednesday: Moong Dal Paratha + Yogurt
Thursday: beetroot and Potato Paratha + Banana
Friday: Mixed Vegetable Paratha + Smoothie
This rotation provides energy, protein, vitamins, and fiber, ensuring a balanced start to the day.
Conclusion
Parathas are not just a tasty breakfast option—they can be transformed into nutritious, balanced meals that cater to children’s taste preferences. By using whole grains, vegetables, and mild spices, parents can ensure their kids receive essential nutrients for growth, immunity, and sustained energy. With creativity and consistency, parathas can become a fun, healthy, and irresistible breakfast for children.
Remember: Small modifications in stuffing, cooking method, and presentation can make parathas both healthy and exciting for even the pickiest eaters.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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