Six easy 20-minute recipes the whole family will love

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When Rebecca Wilson became a mother to Nina four years ago, she was determined to cook from scratch. But, she says, “I struggled to find suitable recipes for both her and me.” She started creating her own and posted them on Instagram – where it struck a chord with […]

Click here to view original web page at www.telegraph.co.uk


When Rebecca Wilson became a mother to Nina four years ago, she was determined to cook from scratch. But, she says, “I struggled to find suitable recipes for both her and me.” She started creating her own and posted them on Instagram – where it struck a chord with parents. Her popularity (among almost 500k followers) led to a bestselling cookbook, What Mummy Makes, and, now, a follow-up, Family Comforts.

Core to Wilson’s approach is that parents and children of all ages should eat the same things. It can be tricky, as young children need less salt and sugar, but there are benefits, including engendering a positive attitude towards food. “When they see you eat, they’re more likely to dig in,” she says.

Wilson believes eating together can help minimise fussiness by showing young children a certain food isn’t disgusting. “If you’re building an environment where everyone feels like it’s a good time,” she says, “they’re much more likely to eat their food.”

Avoid the classic tactic of withholding dessert until they’ve finished their plate. Wilson advises, “If you put dessert on a pedestal, you’re saying vegetables are negative, almost a torture-like experience to get the prize.” And remember children eat with their eyes: “I’ve noticed if I slop everything on a plate, Nina’s less likely to dig in.”

Her recipes here will keep everyone happy.

rebecca wilson rebecca wilson
Rebecca Wilson with daughter Nina Credit: Andrew Burton

Loaded broccoli crumpets

Even though crumpets work brilliantly here, you could use this yummy mixture on top of toast, English muffins or mini tortilla wraps. A versatile and quick family lunch to feed your hungry crew.

Loaded broccoli crumpets Loaded broccoli crumpets
Credit: Andrew Burton

Curried tuna and spinach toasties

This one might not sound like it’s for you, but I urge you to give it a go. Creamy tuna, with a few greens, all laced with comforting spice flavourings – a total winner!

Curried tuna and spinach toasties Curried tuna and spinach toasties
Credit: Andrew Burton

Gingerbread waffles

Soft, fluffy, warmly spiced waffles that will make you all smile! Use the same batter to whip up pancakes instead, if you wish.

Gingerbread waffles Gingerbread waffles
Credit: Andrew Burton

Creamy spinach and garlic fish gratin

Quick and easy to whip up, this flavourful dish is perfect for sharing.

Creamy spinach and garlic fish gratin
Creamy spinach and garlic fish gratin
Credit: Andrew Burton

Easy breakfast pizza

Pizza for breakfast? Yes, please – especially when it’s as easy as this. This makes one pizza, so just scale up the quantities as needed.

Easy breakfast pizza Easy breakfast pizza
Credit: Andrew Burton

Child-friendly beef stroganoff

Tender, succulent strips of beef in a creamy mushroom sauce. This recipe includes grated mushrooms, which melt and hide in the sauce making it safer and easier for little ones to enjoy.

Child-friendly beef stroganoff recipe Child-friendly beef stroganoff recipe
Credit: Andrew Burton

Family Comforts by Rebecca Wilson is published by DK (£18.99). Order your copy for £16.99 from books.telegraph.co.uk

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