In my last column, I supplied you, the readers, with a selection of no-cook recipes for kids of all ages to make with the intention of contributing to family meal preparation. Getting kids involved with food prep not only helps to create a special bonding time but also generates a sense of pride and anticipation of mealtime.
In response to this column, an email was sent to the editor of one of the publications I write for. The main body was as follows:
"I was so excited to flip the page this morning to read Chef Dez's article on getting the kids involved in health and cooking. However, I'm at a loss for words after seeing the sweet and sour recipe calling for golden corn syrup, among sugar and mayo in the other recipes. In 2011 and with all the knowledge about the health dangers of crap ingredients like corn syrup, I cannot believe Chef Dez is contributing to the childhood obesity epidemic."
I do feel this needs to be addressed and responded to. First of all, the column the individual is referring to was in no shape or form, created to focus on "health." My title is chef; not dietitian, nutritionist or doctor. This does not mean I am incapable of creating healthy recipes, but I chose to have a different focus for this particular column.
I am merely making suggestions to give people alternatives to the storebought, preservative-laden, bottled junk they may be buying in the first place.
While some of my food may contain some ingredients that are not the epitome of heath food, it is made fresh and from scratch.
I am the father of four beautiful and healthy children (none of whom have weight problems), and eating a balanced diet is of utmost importance with our day-to-day meals. We also treat food as a celebration, however, and make sure that we interject with dishes that are considered splurges that are by no means meant to be eaten on a regular basis.
This is a big part of what parenting is about. When I am writing a column of this nature, I am also assuming that parents can make these types of decisions for themselves as well.
I do commend the letter writer on the ability to recognize these ingredients as items of concern to them.
This proves that they are educated in food and shows that they probably provide balanced diets for their children. If items in a recipe are a concern, try swapping them out for a healthy alternative. For example, use honey rather than corn syrup or olive oilbased mayonnaise instead of regular.
Recipes are not written in stone; they are opportunities for you to practise creativity.
Thank you, and happy cooking.
Send your food/cooking questions to dez@chefdez. com. Visit www.chefdez.com.
