Little Chefs Cooking Up Some Fun!

Easy Chocolate Fudge

2010-12-20T11:52:00.002-05:00

Yummy for the holidays or to bring as a gift. You do not even have to turn on the oven!!

Easy Chocolate Fudge

This easy chocolate fudge is a snap to make with sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and a little butter. If you use the microwave to heat the mixture, be sure to stir it frequently until the chocolate has melted completely and the mixture is well blended.
Ingredients:
•1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
•2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (12 ounces)
•1 cup milk chocolate chips (6 ounces)
•2 tablespoons butter
•1 teaspoon vanilla
•1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional

Preparation:
Lightly grease a 9-inch square pan; line with a piece of plastic wrap about 18 to 24 inches in length, leaving the ends out to cover the finished fudge. The ends will also serve as "handles" which will help you lift the fudge out of the pan.
Heat the condensed milk, chocolate chips, butter, and vanilla in a double boiler over simmering water. Stir until the chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth. Stir in nuts, if using; pour into the prepared pan. Spread gently then cover lightly with the ends of the plastic wrap. Chill until firm. Lift out of the pan and cut into small squares

Trick or Treat what are you having at your house?

2010-10-26T16:33:00.003-04:00

You couldn't ignore Halloween if you tried, not with the shelves of nearly every store piled high with candy. There's chocolate, candy bars, lollypops, licorice, chewy coloured candy in cute shapes, hard candy, gum, and more ... much more.

This overwhelming reminder of the approach of Halloween represents more than just a tradition of dressing up in costumes to celebrate the day of the dead and then showing them off to your neighbours. Today Halloween is really nothing more than an excuse to eat lots of sugary, insulin-triggering treats.

So in an age when one in four Canadian children are overweight or obese should we be rethinking our manner of celebrating this increasingly popular holiday, or simply carry on with what we've been doing?

Alternatives to Sugar Crashes

Parents and caregivers should try to change the focus of the day away from the habit of collecting and eating candy. Try to emphasize other fun aspects of Halloween, such as creating great costumes. Some helpful ideas for parents to think about:

• Allowing children to make the rounds of houses in the neighbourhood, but then limiting the candy they are allowed to keep to a reasonable number of their favourite pieces when they return home.
• Predetermine this amount before kids go out and to keep the rule consistent for all children in the family regardless of their age.
• implement a system of buying back most of the candy their children have collected and then removing it from the home. "Do not keep enough candy in the house for the next six months."
• Try healthier customs. Use the family pumpkin carving experience as a means to encourage healthy eating by making tasty snacks from the interior, such as muffins, cookies and baked pumpkin seeds.
• Hold a Halloween neighbourhood party. Parents meet and plan the event ahead of time and organize entertaining activities such as costume contests, games and even a potluck dinner. Have fun by celebrating the occasion together rather than just gathering candy.

Plan Healthy Halloween Strategies

Rather than go out with your kids, have a Halloween party at the house and have fun watching the other kids come by in their costumes. Limit the amount of "treats" you hand out to other kids and opt for healthier choices. Offer your children Halloween toys or stickers instead of candy. Instead of going around collecting candy, have your child go around collecting loose pennies and nickels for a favourite charity UNICEF is traditionally supported, but it need not be the only one.
If your child does collect candy, have him or her trade in the candy for a new toy or activity such as going to a movie, sports event or amusement park.

Lori Tinella founder, owner of Little Chefs based in Erin, Ontario
www.thelittlechefs.ca
519-940-1131

Perfect to Make for a Cool Fall Day!

2010-10-04T10:07:00.003-04:00

Well is was a little chiller this morning than usual so Fall is here. My good friend Patti e-mailed this morning for some ispiration for a food to make on this cool day. This recipe is so easy and made in a slow cooker. Excellent to prepare the night before and start in morning and come home to enjoy!

Chunky Beef & Sausage Chili

28oz can diced or whole tomatoes (I use 2 cans)
5.5 oz can tomato paste
5 garlic cloves
2 onions coarsely chopped
2 tbsp chilli powder
1 tsp each ground cinnamon, dried oregano, cayenne
½ tsp salt
4 hot or mild Italian sausages
1 lb cubed stewing beef
2 green peppers
19 oz bean medley

1. Drain tomatoes. Place in slow cooker. If using whole tomatoes , break up. Stir in tomato paste, garlic, onions and seasonings. Cut each sausage into 4 or 5 pieces. Stir in along with beef and peppers.
2. Cover and cook until beef is very tender, 4 – 6 hours on high or 8 – 10 hours on low. Then rinse and drain the beans and stir in. Cover and cook until hot, 5 – 10 min. Ladle int bowls and serve with dollops of sour cream , grated cheddar or chopped avocado. Chili will keep well, covered and refrigerated, up to 5 days days or freeze up to 3 months. Enjoy , spicy if using hot sausages.

Happy Cooking,
Lori
Little Chefs
Cook Up Some Fun Today!
www.thelittlechefs.ca
519-940-1131

Oh My Spaghetti Pie !

2010-09-22T09:33:00.004-04:00

I enjoy spending time in the kitchen this time of year - the kids are off at school, it is cooler out, and I have more time. How about you? When I have extra time, I like to pop a few things into my freezer to use on the days when I am super busy, (or just feeling lazy). Today I thought I would share with you one of my favourite recipes that you can make and freeze for later!

Spaghetti Pie (Pizza)

Ingredients:
1 lb cooked pasta(I like to use spaghetti)
2 cups spaghetti sauce
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup milk or plain yoghurt
2 tsp. dried Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, garlic powder, parsley)
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, cheddar, or Monterey jack shredded (whatever is your fav!)
Additional topping ie. veggies, meats or fruits

Preparation:
In a very large bowl, beat the spaghetti sauce, egg, milk and Italian seasonings until well-combined.
Add the cooked spaghetti and stir to coat well.
Pour spaghetti mixture into prepared pan.
Top with shredded cheese(s)and any other toppings you like.
Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. If you make two then let cool and wrap well and freeze for later. Enjoy!

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs
www.thelittlechefs.ca
519-940-1131

Apple Muffins to make with your Little Chefs

2010-09-15T11:53:00.002-04:00

Healthy Apple a Day Muffins!!

Preheat oven to 375 degrees

1 egg
3/4 milk or yoghurt ( plain or vanilla)
1/4 canola oil
1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1-1 1/2 cups grated apple

Mix egg in a bowl, stir in milk or yoghurt, oil, and apple.
Mix dry ingredients together and add in to wet just until moistened.

Pour into a lined muffin tin.

Topping

1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup oats
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Mix together and sprinkle on top of muffins. Bake for 25 minutes or using tester comes out clean. Makes 12 muffins. Enjoy!!

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs
www.thelittlechefs.ca
519-940-1131

Healthy School Lunch Ideas

2010-09-01T18:37:00.002-04:00

1. Chicken, turkey, ham or salami, Swiss cheese and lettuce on whole wheat bread
2. Turkey or ham, red bell pepper strips, and Cheddar cheese wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla, with mayonnaise, spicy mustard or salsa
3. Tuna, chicken or egg salad with whole grain crackers or on a bagel with cucumbers or lettuce
4. Cheddar or havarti cheese and sliced tomato sandwich (put the tomato between the slices of cheese so the bread doesn't get soggy) with a little mayonnaise or mustard
5. Cream cheese spread on a tortilla (pack sliced apples to add just before eating) This is my daughter’s fav!
6. Leftovers like pasta, tortellini with tomato sauce, pizza, chicken, turkey sausage or steak (kids don't seem to mind eating them cold). Save little condiment packages from takeout food to use as dips
7. Black beans and rice or other rice salad
8. Healthy soup or chilli in a thermos
9. Whole grain bagel or rice cakes with cream cheese
10. Trail mix made with raisins, pretzels, cherrios, and chocolate chips (or your kids' favourite items)
11. Healthy dried cereals (milk is optional)
12. Baby carrots, celery, sliced cucumbers, red bell peppers and pita chips with hummus or other dip
13. All varieties of fresh fruit (cut apples, mango, oranges and other hard to eat fruit, if needed)
14. Popcorn (a kid-friendly whole grain), alone or mixed with raisins and nuts
15. Whole grain tortilla chips and salsa (look for a brand without added sugar) or black bean dip
16. Low fat yogurt or cottage cheese with fresh fruit and granola or other cereal (keep them separate and let your child combine them at lunch)
17. Drinkable, spoon-able, or squeezable yogurt or kefir
18. Cheese and whole grain crackers
19. Proteins like cheese sticks or cubes, hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, edamame, or other legumes
20. Breakfast type food like an omelette or even French toast if child is ok with it cold.

P.S. In an effort to create less environmental waste, I'm packing everything I can in reusable containers (Laptop lunchbox).

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs
Cook Up Some Fun today!
www.thelittlechefs.ca

Packing School Lunches

2010-08-31T14:51:00.003-04:00

If you're like most parents, you want to pack a school lunch that is healthy, tasty, inexpensive, easy to prepare, and won't be wasted. Here are some healthy school lunch ideas and guidelines to follow to make sure your kids enjoy their school lunches every time:

• Nutritionists recommend that kids eat fruits, vegetables and lean proteins like chicken, turkey or beans in their school lunches. It's good advice, but you don't have to set impossible standards for yourself, either.
• What I mean is, if your kids are used to taking bologna and cheese with mayo on white bread, don't switch to tofu and brown rice cakes in one day. Make changes to healthier foods gradually. Keep the bologna and cheese, but put it on whole wheat bread, or make bologna and cheese roll-ups.
• Choose natural foods wherever possible. There are so many convenient natural snacks nowadays, from baby carrots and dip to natural cheese whole grian crackers, that it's easy to pack a healthy lunch that doesn't take a ton of time to prepare.
• Use whole wheat bread. If your kids don't like whole wheat bread, try a "white" whole wheat bread, which is made with an albino strain of wheat and has the same nutritional profile as regular whole wheat bread.
• Skip the pops, and limit juices. Pop has no nutritional value and juices, even 100% natural juices, can be high in sugar and calories. Water and milk are better healthier choices. But if the kids really want juice, try alternating between water and juice, or giving them a choice between juice or dessert. If I had a choice between drinking water and having chocolate cookies in my lunch, I'm going to pick the cookies. But that's just me.
• Keep it simple. Most young kids prefer plain foods over fancy, less seasoned over spicy, and simply prepared over fussy. For older kids, add variety by grilling sandwiches and wrapping in foil. Chicken quesadillas are one of my kids' favourite lunch box foods.
• Pack small quantities of a variety of foods in separate containers(eco-friendly). This is not only more visually-appealing to kids, makes it easy to eat in a hurry, it keeps food from getting soggy and can be a great way to get kids to try new foods.

Lori Tinella, founder
Little Chefs519-940-1131
http://www.thelittlechefs.ca

Yummy Healthier Cookies!!!

2010-08-11T14:23:00.002-04:00

I keep getting asked for this new recipe so I decided to post it for all.It is a new, easy and great recipe for all your cookie monsters at home for summer break and would be great for school lunches ( yes school is starting again in less than a month) A cookie is not the best snack to have but if you are having one why not one that is healthier!

Chocolate Chip Zucchini Cookies

• 1 whole Egg Beaten
• ½ cups Butter, Softened
• ½ cups Brown Sugar
• ⅓ cups Agave Nectar (or Honey If You Prefer)
• 1 Tablespoon Vanilla
• 1 cup All-purpose Flour
• 1 cup Whole Wheat Flour
• ½ teaspoons Baking Soda
• ¼ teaspoons Salt
• ¼ teaspoons Cinnamon
• 1 cup Zucchini, Finely Shredded
• 12 ounces, weight Semisweet Chocolate Chips

Preparation Instructions
Preheat oven to 350.
Combine the egg, butter, brown sugar, honey and vanilla in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients then blend into the wet ingredients.
Finally stir in the chocolate chips and shredded zucchini.
Drop spoonfuls onto parchment lined cookie sheets.
Bake for 12-15 minutes

Enjoy and if you need any Zucchini please stop buy, my garden is full of yellow ones this year!!
Lori
Little Chefs

519-940-1131

Zucchini, Zucchini and more Zucchini!!!!

2010-07-28T14:05:00.002-04:00

My garden this year is doing great! Lots of peas, beans, cucumbers already and tons of zucchini. I have been trying to make more recipes with zucchini in it because I hate to see them go to watse. I made some Chocolate chip cookies with zucchini in them and they went over well. The youngest daughter said
" why are they so soft Mommy?" but the oldest girl said she loved them!!

Here is a new way of enjoying some salsa with various meats, as a side or with some tortilla chips made from baking tortilla shells in the oven.

Zucchini Salsa

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
Cooking Time: No Cooking Required

Ingredients:
1. 1 small zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch dice
2. 1 tomato, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch dice
3. 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
4. 3/4 cup fresh corn kernels (cut from 1 large ear of corn)
5. 3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
6. 1/2 hot pepper, finely chopped
7. 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or basil
8. Juice of 1/2 lemon or 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
Preparation:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and give a quick mix with a spoon.

This delicious summer treat can be enjoyed with crackers, nachos, chicken, fish, or on its own as a salsa-salad.

Courtesy of Eat Local Caledon

Enjoy!

Happy Cooking!!
Lori Tinella
Little Chefs

10 Tips to Making the Best Muffins Ever!

2010-07-17T16:15:00.002-04:00

Start with ingredients at room temperature – eggs, milk, etc.

Take care not to over mix the batter; use a flexible spatula to gently fold ingredients together.

Batter should be stiff enough to hold a spoon upright; if it seems runny, gently fold in a few extra tablespoons of flour.

Use the freshest spices as possible when they are required.

Grease the entire muffin tin, not just the holes. More often than not, the muffins expand over the sides, and if those sides have not been properly greased, you’re going to run into trouble when you try to remove the muffins.

Fill muffin tins three-quarters full; the tops are the best part, so don’t be shy with the batter.

Slide a baking sheet under the muffin tin to help prevent the bottoms from getting too dark in the oven. This also helps with cleanup in case there is overflow.
Take care not to over-bake the muffins.

Allow muffins to cool in the pan at least 10 minutes before removing them, especially if they contain soft fresh fruit.

Enjoy them fresh. If you must, freeze them, although I prefer to freeze the batter (without add-ins), then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake the muffins fresh in the morning.

I am just going to try out a new recipe with fresh raspberries since they are in season so I will post the recipe and picture later!

Lori Tinella
Happy Baking!!

Little Chefs

Make your own Whole Wheat Flour

2010-07-12T11:44:00.002-04:00

Whole wheat flour is nothing more than all purpose or white flour with added wheat bran. Yes, believe it or not, you can MAKE your own whole-wheat flour! It is a straight 1 to 1 ratio. of every cup of all-purpose flour, you add the same amount of wheat bran. But keep in mind because whole flour has different structure and taste, not all baked goods should be substituted for whole wheat flour.
If you are making delicate sponge or chiffon cakes, I would not recommend using whole wheat flour. However, less delicate baked items such as muffins, coffee cakes, biscuits, scones and breads are very whole wheat flour friendly.

In the category of quick breads (i.e. scones and biscuits), I suggest using 2/3 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/3 cup of whole wheat flour. For breads, I like to use a 1 to 1 ratio for whole wheat to white flour. Also, because whole-wheat flour has less protein (gluten) you may want to add either gluten or bread flour which has a higher protein level to give your bread some lift and structure.

Here are some very important things to keep in mind when using whole wheat flour:

• Whole wheat flour is more dense than white flour, so you should sift, or if you are too lazy to sift, quickly aerate your whole wheat flour with a whisk.
• If you are substituting whole wheat flour, you must increase your wet ingredients ever so slightly. The bran in the whole wheat flour acts like a sponge, therefore absorbs more than the required moisture in your recipe.
• Lastly, avoid over mixing when you use whole-wheat all-purpose flour in baked goods such as cookies and muffins because the denser flour mixture will create unwanted gluten and make your baked goods tougher and chewier.

Happy Baking!

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs

Top 10 Reasons to Send your Kids to Summer Camp

2010-06-16T22:23:00.003-04:00

Send your Kids to Summer Camp Cooking / Art Camp with Little Chefs & Pottery Parties in the Hills!

-- It's a fun "camp" experience for boys and girls ages 5-13!
-- Kids meet new friends with the same interests and passions.
-- Inspires kids creativity and independence.
-- Full days from 9-4 pm.
-- A fun way to improve math and science skills.
-- Builds self-esteem and confidence.
-- Different themes each day.
-- Expands your kids dining horizons so they will try new foods.
-- Learn to use kitchen tools and gadgets safely.
-- AND THE #1 REASON . . . They just might serve you dinner when you come home from work!

Act now to Book camp this summer for July 12-16th from 9am - 4pm!!
Loads of messy, fun days ahead!!!

Lori Tinella

Little Chefs
Call 519-940-1131 or info@thelittlechefs.ca
http://www.thelittlechefs.ca

Fresh, New idea to keep your kids busy this summer....

2010-06-14T15:21:00.002-04:00

Have them cook with us and we take care of the mess too!

Join us for Little Chefs 2nd Annual Cook for your Dad Cookshop.
Sunday June 20th (1 & 3 pm) What's Cookin' on Main St,Erin

Come out and prepare something special for your dad for this father's day. You and Mom will have fun preparing some yummy food together at What's Cookin' in Erin, Ontario.
$30.00 per child. Limited spaces available. Call or e-mail Little Chefs to reserve your spot.

**Following your Cookshop, each participant will be emailed a $15 off coupon to use towards a Little Chefs Cooking Party! ** (some restrictions apply, can not be applied to your deposit required to reserve your party time & day)

Little Chefs Children's Summer Cooking /Pottery Camp (Pottery Parties in the Hills)
July 12-19th (9am-4pm) Westminister Church on Broadway, Orangeville

Worried about idle hands this Summer Break? Enroll your kids in our hands-on cooking / pottery camp to keep their little hands busy and their minds engaged, all while improving their culinary and art skills. Campers will take a trip to the local supermarket to source ingredients, and plan on learning how to eat locally and may even be visited by a local Chef!

Call and enroll your kids today to keep them busy, learning and of course well fed and cared for during the summer!
$350 for the week ** Limited spots for school aged children so enroll now!

Lori Tinella, founder
Little Chefs
info@thelittlechefs.ca
Cook Up Some Fun Today!
www.thelittlechefs.ca
T 519-940-1131 F 519-940-0295

Top Ten "Rules" for Successful and Positive Mealtimes with Your Kids

2010-06-07T14:59:00.001-04:00

1. Keep meals and snack times consistent and regular.
2. Eat as a family. Model good food habits and table manners. They will follow.
3. Sit down to eat and drink – don't take meals on the run!
4. Keep a distraction-free eating area - no T.V., toys, or other distractions such as cell phones, laptops, or newspapers.
5. Provide a balance and variety of foods to keep kids interested satisfied.
6. Empower your child to make healthy choices about what to eat and how much. They will feel empowered, for example, if you offer them the option of healthy choice #1 or healthy choice #2, such as peas or carrots.
7. Don't pressure your child to eat – this will backfire!
8. Respect your child's choices and trust their natural ability to self regulate their food intake.
9. Set limits on age appropriate behavior at the table and stick to your boundaries.
10. Have fun! The less you stress at mealtimes, the more fun all of you will have!

Lori Tinella

Little Chefs
www.thelittlechefs.ca

Little Chefs Cooking Camp!!

2010-05-10T00:00:00.002-04:00

New this year Little Chefs Cooking Camp this summer!

Are your kids looking for a fun summer adventure they will never forget?

Little Chefs has partnered with Pottery Parties in the Hills to have some messy, creative fun in July and August.

The July camp is to be held July 12-16th in Orangeville and the August camp is August 3-6th in Belfountain

Here are some more details.........

Pottery Parties in the Hills Activities include:

-painting ceramics
-playing with clay
-spin the pottery wheel
-painting wood
& more

Little Chefs Activities include:

-various hands-on cooking
-food science
-cooks and books
-grow your food
& more

July Session
This one week day-camp is designed to provide children who love cooking and pottery with a safe, fun, exciting and creative atmosphere in which to enjoy their school break. Daily outdoor time can be a component of this flexible schedule.
Westminster Church, Orangeville Monday July 12th – Friday July 16th 2010
(5 day week)
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
All materials included
*must bring own lunch & snacks

August Session
Belfountain Community Hall
Tuesday August 3rd – Friday August 6th 2010 (4 day week)
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
All materials included
*must bring own lunch & snacks
School age children

Sign up today- Limited spots available
PREVIEW CAMP DAY - May 15th 10-1pm at Westminster Church in Orangeville.
Sign up early and receive special rate!

Lori @ 519-940-1131 or lori@thelittlechefs.ca

www.thelittlechefs.ca

Food Allergies

2010-05-06T20:13:00.004-04:00

For those of you that know me know that I am the biggest advocate for allergy awareness because of my oldest child. My sweet Alyssa is 8 years old and has been diagnosed with an allergy to peanuts. We discovered this when she was 3 years old and the whole family lives like we all have the same allergy. What is most important is educating our daughter as well as others on dealing allergies.

May is Food Allergy Awarness Month so I decided to post this from Anaphaylaxis Canada's news release.

I hope that all of you can understand abit more whether you have to deal with any allergies directly or indirectly. Thanks for understanding. Lori

May is Food Allergy Awareness Month taken from Anaphylaxis Canada's news release May 4th 2010

Anaphylaxis Canada applauds Parliament's motion recognizing Food Allergy Awareness Month and will be commemorating the occasion by promoting a number of initiatives intended to support the 1.3 million Canadians who live with food allergies. Food allergy is a growing public health issue in Canada. More than fifty percent of Canadians know someone with a food allergy. While allergic individuals must take responsibility for their condition, awareness and support of the community are key to keeping people, especially children, safe. Without treatment, anaphylaxis, the most severe form of an allergic reaction, can cause death.

Anaphylaxis Canada will be recognizing Food Allergy Awareness Month through a number of planned initiatives and events. This includes the organization's annual conference, hosted this year in Toronto, during which exciting new food allergy research will be presented by leading Canadian experts. Anaphylaxis Canada will also be launching two key initiatives for teens and young adults: a new French version of its website especially created for allergic teens to help them manage their food allergies more effectively; and the Sabrina Shannon Memorial Award for youth involvement in community anaphylaxis education.

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs
http://www.thelittlechefs.ca

Yummy Carrots in a Muffin!!

2010-04-27T13:27:00.004-04:00

This past weekend I made a carrot cake for my sister's shower because she really likes it. Well it turned out yummy and everyone enjoyed it!
Today I am home with a sick child so I made carrot muffins and they are yummy too!

Here is my recipe....

I used Agave nectar which comes from the agave plant. It is a sweet liquid with a consistency a bit smoother than honey. Agave is also low on the glycemic index and is metabolized by your body slower than sugar so it has a less severe effect on blood sugar fluctuations. You can find it at any health food store and I bet you’ll find many ways for it to replace sugar in your kitchen. If you want more of a treat you can put icing on them!

 
Carrot Cupcakes

1 Cup Flour
3/4 Tsp Baking Powder
3/4 Tsp Baking Soda
1/2 Tsp Salt
1/2 Tsp Cinnamon
3/4 Cup Agave
1/2 Cup Vegetable Oil
2 Large Eggs
1 1/2 Cup Carrots, peeled and shredded
1/4 Cup Pineapple, drained, crushed in juice

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon into a medium sized bowl.
3. Using a mixer, beat the agave, oil and eggs until thoroughly combined.
4. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl.
5. Add the carrots and pineapple and beat until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
6. Line 12 1/3 cup muffin cups with paper liners.
7. Scoop batter into cups, filling 3/4 full.
8. Bake for 30 minutes.
9. Cool (cupcakes can be made 1 day ahead, cover and store at room temperature).
10 Spread top of each cupcake with 2 tablespoons of cream cheese icing and serve.

Cream Cheese Icing (Make 2 Cups)

1 8 oz Package Cream Cheese, room temperature
1/2 Cup Butter, room temperature
4 Tbsp Agave Nectar
1 Tsp Vanilla
1. Place all the ingredients in a mixer and beat on medium to high speed until fluffy.
2. Spread on cupcakes.
Enjoy!

Lori
Happy Cooking!

519-940-1131

Earth Day Cooking

2010-04-21T13:28:00.003-04:00

What better way to honor Earth Day than to prepare a dish that's easy on the environment? Look for spring gems like asparagus, blueberries, cabbage, cauliflower, mushrooms and peas at your nearest farmer's market. Eating local supports your economy and involves fewer miles traveled - and fewer pollutants emitted.

Angel Hair Pasta with Asparagus

Ingredients
8 ounces angel hair pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1-1/2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet. Sauté asparagus in the pan over medium heat for about 3 minutes. Add chicken broth and mushroom slices; cook 3 minutes more.
3. Drain pasta, and transfer to a serving dish. Gently toss pasta with asparagus mixture; sprinkle with Parmesan and crushed red pepper.
You'll want to try these healthy, wholesome banana blueberry muffins that are both quick and easy to make. Full of fiber, these morning muffins are a great way to start a nutritious day.

Vegan Banana Blueberry Muffins

Ingredients•

2 very ripe bananas, mashed
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1-1/2 teaspoons egg replacer (dry)
• 1/2 cup blueberries

Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease muffin cups or line with paper muffin liners.
2. In a large bowl combine mashed bananas, all-purpose flour, whole wheat pastry flour, sugar, baking powder and salt; mix until smooth. In a small bowl or cup combine water and egg replacer; stir into banana mixture. Fold in blueberries.
3. Spoon batter evenly, about 1/4 cup each, into muffin cups.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Happy Cooking!
Lori Tinella, founder
Little Chefs

* For more information on getting your children eating healthier foods or upcoming children’s fun cooking classes go to http://thelittlechefs.ca

Notes From the Cookie Jar: Royale Reno-cation! Win a Cruise, A Renovation, and more!

2010-04-13T23:24:00.000-04:00

Notes From the Cookie Jar: Royale Reno-cation! Win a Cruise, A Renovation, and more!

Recipe for Leftover Turkey!

2010-04-07T10:15:00.004-04:00

Now that Easter is over and you may have leftover turkey like I have. Here is an easy recipe you can use it up!

Quick Chicken(Turkey) Lasagne
Take the easy but delicious way out with jarred pasta sauce, rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey and no-boil noodles to create this lasagnes. These six ingredients make a family favourite:

Ingredients
1 rotisserie chicken, skin removed and chicken torn into pieces (3 cups) or 3 cups leftover turkey
2 (26-ounce) jars pasta sauce
2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
2 (10-ounce) packages chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 (4-ounce) package crumbled goat cheese
1 (8-ounce) package no-boil lasagne noodles

Instructions
1. Preheat oven 350 degrees. Cut chicken into small pieces and mix with both jars of pasta sauce.
2. In an oblong dish, spread thin layer of chicken sauce. Top with layer of noodles, chicken sauce, mozzarella cheese, half spinach and goat cheese. Repeat layering with noodles, chicken sauce, mozzarella, remaining spinach and goat cheese.
3. Continue with remaining noodles, chicken sauce, mozzarella and goat cheese.
4. Bake, covered, 50 minutes. Uncover, bake 5 minutes longer or until bubbly.

Makes 8 servings.
Enjoy!

Looking for some activities for this summer for your kids??
How about Summer Camp with Little Chefs and Pottery Parties in the Hills??

Week #1- July 12-16 (5 days) 2010 9-4pm in Orangeville on Broadway
Week #2 August 3-6 (4 days) 2010 9-4pm in Belfountain

*Only 20 spots available for school age children.
Hurry spaces are filling up fast! 519-940-1113 or info@thelittlechefs.ca

Awesome Little Chefs Cookshop

2010-03-29T19:34:00.003-04:00

This past weekend Little Chefs was cooking up some fun at a parent-child cookshop in Erin.

Each parent-child team made pizza dough, scrambled egg "cupcakes" and awesome oatmeal bars! We also mada a yummy snack (apple tortilla roll) to munch on in between all the cooking activities.
Everyone had lots of fun all while learning some healthy recipes,tips and food to take home.
Here is the recipe for the Awesome Oatmeal Bars they are great!

Awesome Oatmeal Bars

SERVES: Makes 16-20 bars
TIME: APPROX 40 minutes

• 1/2 cup (125 mL) butter
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) maple syrup
• 1/4 cup (50 mL) packed brown sugar
• 2 1/2 cups (625 mL) rolled oats (not quick, instant or one-minute)
• 1/3 cup (75 mL) wheat germ or bran
• 2 tsp (10 mL) vanilla
• 1 tsp (5 mL) finely grated orange rind
• 1 tsp (5 mL) cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt
• 1/3 cup (75 mL) dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries, or finely chopped apricots, figs and/or pitted dates)

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch (2.5-L) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch (2.5-cm) overhang on two sides so you can easily lift the baked bars out of the pan.
2. In a large saucepan, heat butter, maple syrup and sugar over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Boil for 1 minute; remove saucepan from heat. Stir in oats, wheat germ, vanilla, orange rind, cinnamon and salt until well combined. Stir in dried fruit until well combined.
3. Spread mixture evenly in pan, pressing down firmly using base of a measuring cup. Bake 30 to 35 minutes, until a deep golden colour. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Once cooled, use parchment to lift to a cutting board; cut into bars with a large serrated knife. (Save any crumbs; they’re delicious sprinkled over yogurt or fruit.) Bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Enjoy!

Lori Tinella
Happy Cooking!

More Spring Classes go to www.thelittlechefs.ca for more information!

Warm weather means lots of dirt!!!

2010-03-09T21:40:00.005-05:00

How about Dirt in a pot?? No not the kind that is starting to appear around our houses and walkways. The yummy, brown kind in a pot that you eat. This past weekend I held a fabulous "Dirt in a Pot" Little Chefs party for a small group of girls. They measured and mixed up some dirt(flour and cocoa), added some fertilizer(zuchinni), and sprinkled in a few extras to make their very own mini cakes in pots. The recipe is great for kids of all ages and is very easy. Once baked and cooled the girls added some final touches of decorating and boxed them up for a great take home gift. Thank you Emily for letting us share in your birthday celebration.

Happy Cooking!

Lori
Little Chefs
www.thelittlechefs.ca

Stay tuned for some exciting news!!!

A HEALTHY START TO THE DAY IN 2010!!

2010-02-26T09:03:00.003-05:00

A Healthy Start to the Day

Eating breakfast is an important part of powering-up your body for the day. Eating a balanced breakfast can help keep your family alert, improve mood and reduce mid-morning food cravings.

Ten Tips for a Healthier Breakfast:

Oatmeal in an Instant
Instant oatmeal is great on a cold morning and contains fiber and vitamins. Choose oatmeal that is not already pre-sweetened. Sweeten it with raisins or fresh fruit.
Smoothie madness
Blend frozen fruit (bananas and berries are great), low-fat or fat-free milk, and 100% fruit-juice for a quick, tasty breakfast smoothie with lots of nutrients.
Go 100% whole grain
100% whole-grain, fiber-containing cereals served with low- or fat-free milk are a healthier alternative to sugary cereals. Whole-wheat muffins with smashed banana are easy and tasty as well.
Eggxactly! Boil, scramble, or poach eggs and serve on whole-wheat toast - they're packed with nutrition and, in appropriate portions, are great for kids.
Toaster Treats
Frozen whole-grain waffles take almost no time to make. Top them with berries, low-sugar apple sauce or sliced bananas instead of syrup.
Go Nutty!
Spreading peanut or almond butter on whole-grain toast is a great to get both protein and fiber.
Go Fruity
A fresh fruit cut up with a dollop of low-fat or fat-free yogurt is a great way to start the day. Apples contain fiber and bananas contain potassium.
Try All-Fruit Spreads
Instead of butter or margarine on toast, try all-fruit spreads, fruit butters, or even sliced bananas or strawberries.
Bagel Classics
Try a whole-wheat or sunflower seed bagel with low-fat cream cheese or nut butter.
Breakfast On-the-Go
Don't have time to eat breakfast at home? Keep whole-grain mini bagels on-hand or muffins, nuts and dried and fresh fruits that can be taken in the car (apple slices and bananas are also easy and not too messy!).

Did you know?
People who eat breakfast are significantly less likely to be obese and diabetic than those who usually don't.
• Children who eat breakfast are more likely to have better concentration, problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.
• Studies have seen that "students who ate breakfasts before starting school had a general increase in math grades and reading scores, increased student attention, reduced nurse visits, and improved student behaviours.
• Unfortunately, many breakfast foods contain a lot of sugar and have been stripped of their natural nutrients. Try to avoid frosted and chocolate cereals, donuts, white bread and high-sugar breakfast bars. Instead of sugary juices, provide your children with 100% fruit juices or fat-free or low-fat milk. Eating only sugary foods may cause your child to have erratic energy levels. Eating a balanced breakfast will help get them going and sustain their energy until lunch time.
A healthy breakfast does not have to take a lot of time. Stick to the basics and serve simple foods that are nutritious and quick in the morning.

Eat up and have energy for a great day! I will post one of my yummy homemade pancake recipes soon..........

Happy Cooking, Lori
Little Chefs
www.thelittlechefs.ca
519-940-1131

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-13T23:01:00.004-05:00

In honor of this sweet holiday Valentine's Day I wanted to give you a recipe I found that is great. Chocolate cake in 5 minutes. How great is that??
Make some now for your sweetie!

5 minute Chocolate Cake in a Cup!

Ingredients:

- 4 tbsp flour
- 5 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa
- 1 tsp baking powder (I used 1/2 tsp and it turned out fine)
- 1/2 tsp coffee powder (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp milk
- 3 tbsp oil
- 3 tbsp chocolate chips or flakes plus 2 tablespoon extra (I omitted these)
- A small splash of vanilla extract
- Microwave safe coffee mugs

1. Mix all the dry ingredients in a big bowl.

2. Next, add in the milk, oil, vanilla extract, egg and mix well.

3. Pour mixture into mugs (at the halfway mark).

4. Microwave one mug at a time. Cook for 1 minute on medium heat. It will bubble and rise as it cooks, so make sure you provide ample room for that. Leave it for a few seconds, then microwave for another 30 seconds on medium again. The mixture will solidify, but still look a little molten. That is fine because it will continue cooking on residual heat. Overcook it and you get a chocolate rubber ball.

5. Allow to cool a little and start digging in. Of course, nothing is stopping you from embellishing your cake and eating it too!

Have your cake and eat it too!!
Enjoy with your Valentine! Have a sweet one,

Lori
Little Chefs
www.thelittlechefs.ca
519-940-1131

Upcoming Classes / Cookshops for Little Chefs

2010-01-26T16:02:00.004-05:00

Come PLAY with your Food!

Learning to cook is more than just knowing how to follow a recipe. It is an adventure into the basics of chemistry; an exercise in the applications of math and reading comprehension, and the visual art of nature’s palette.
Whether your children see themselves as the next Rachel or Emeril- or they simply love to be in the kitchen- we’ll teach them how to truly play with their food!

New Upcoming 2010 Winter Classes / Cookshops:

February
All things chocolate...........Come out to make some yummy chocolate treats for your loved ones! $ 30.00
Saturday Feb 13th. @ Alder Street Recreation Centre in Orangeville from 2 - 3:30pm
Sunday Feb 14th. @ What's Cookin in Erin from 2 - 3:30 pm
*Bring in something for local food bank and receive a valentine's gift for yourself!

Parent Child Cookshop # 1 - Baking that can be made ahead of time? Fast and delicious Freezer Pizza Doughs and Slice and Bake cookies are as convenient as store-bought, but you know what goes into it! $ 45.00 for child parent team
Saturday Feb 27th @ Alder Street Recreation Centre in Orangeville from 2 - 3:30pm
Sunday Feb 28th @ What's Cookin in Erin from 2 - 3:30pm

March
March Break - Animal Treats - Good Enough to Eat! Come out and learn how to make some healthy treats for your furry friends. Contact 519-940-1131 for more information

Parent Child Cookshop # 2 - Ready to create some salads and snacks together? Crunchy salads and healthy delicious snacks for the whole family. $ 45.00 for child parent team
Saturday March 27th @ Alder Street Recreation Centre in Orangeville from 2 - 3:30pm
Sunday March 28th @ What's Cookin in Erin from 2 - 3:30pm
Advanced registration and payment to reserve your seat(s) is with Little Chefs info@thelittlechefs.ca or 519-940-1131

*Classes / cookshops for all age levels include discussions on safe food handling, sanitation, and cleaning up.
*All class /cookshop fees include food costs, food sampling and results to take home.
*Private groups, such as girl guides /boy-scout troops, play groups, parties etc. can be arranged at your area location or one of ours for regular fees. Minimum of 8 participants.

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs
Have a Party that COOKS!
www.thelittlechefs.ca
519-940-1131

Pizza party and lots of baked goods, Yummy!!!

2010-01-25T20:11:00.005-05:00

Recently I held a young girls birthday pizza making party and then finished off with the decorating of cupcakes! All the girls ( 12 of them ) had fun with lots of flour, dough and yummy topping to make their customized pizza's. After the pizza's we moved on to the sweetness of chocolate cupcakes, chocolate icing and coloured sugars! All the guests signed the birthday girls apron and left with a custom loot bag filled with a few ccoking items.
If you would like to host a cooking party for your child please give me a call or e-mail.

Happy Cooking!
Lori
Little Chefs

www.thelittlechefs.ca
Have a Party that COOKS!!

Wow has it really been that long since my last post??

2010-01-18T21:46:00.004-05:00

I must apoligize for my absense but the worldwind leading up to Christmas had me very busy with all my Little Chefs events ( school class visits, holiday cookshops, and parties) that my postings have been lacking.

During my blob posting absense I decided that I really needed to take some time to regroup and spend time with my family. It has been an amazing and challenging year as a small business owner. Trying to balance my day-to-day live with young kids and building my small business of Little Chefs! I am not complaining but it does come at a price, the balancing dance we much do in order to get done alot of things that you take on when running your own business.

Part of this past month or so I have used for evaluating, testing and planning for the future.
I needed to discover what was working, what was not and what needed to change for the future of Little Chefs.

I hope that you all had wonderful, happy, healthy holidays and are enjoying the new year of 2010! The tenth year of the millennium!

It is a year of new possibilities and hope for health, peace and love.

Thanks to all of you whom I have shared experiences with and hope can share more.

Stay tuned for what is in store for Little Chefs in 2010.........

From my heart and kitchen,

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs, founder

www.thelittlechefs.ca

Gingerbread Dreams this past weekend

2009-11-30T17:10:00.006-05:00

Friday the 27th at 5 & 7pm and Saturday the 28th at 12:30pm was the Gingerbread Dreams workshops at What's Cookin' in Erin. There was alot of icing and tons of sweet decorations flowing and the houses were decorated beautifully . Everyone had tons of sweet fun and the Saturday group got to finish up and see the Santa Claus parade go by. Above are a couple of pictures of some of the great participants. Thanks to all the parents who stayed and had fun creating memories with their children!
Last chance to participate and do a house of your own is Sunday December 6th @ 3pm at Noinkee's in Orangeville and Saturday December 12th at Alder Rec Centre in Orangeville @ 1pm.
Call to reserve your spot 519-940-1131

Yours in sweet health,
Lori
Little Chefs
www.thelittlechefs.ca

Cookies, cookies everywhere!

2009-11-23T10:22:00.004-05:00

This past weekend I hosted a young girls birthday cookie making party. What a blast it was. All the girls were very happy to get right into creaming the butter, adding the sugar,egg, and dry ingredients! They all had loads of fun mixing, rolling, pressing and decorating some yummy sugar cookies. The girls ranged in age from 3-6 years of age. The children didn't go home with just their cookies to share but with inspiration to get in the kitchen to help mom or dad!
If you are interested in booking your child's cooking or baking party please contact me as I am already booking for into the New Year! Little Chefs holds parties and classes for kids aged 3 and up!
We still have some spots available for the Gingerbread Dreams classes being held in December in Orangeville. Spots are filling up so contact us today to reserve your spot.
info@thelittlechefs.ca or 519-940-1131

Tis the Season to increase your Antioxidants

2009-11-17T14:37:00.004-05:00

Fresh cranberries are now in season between October and December, just in time for the holidays!

One serving of fresh cranberries (1/2 cup) is low in calories and full of vitamin C and fiber and also a good source of vitamin K.
Cranberries have a great deal of health benefits:
• helps protect the urinary tract from infections
• fights viral infections
• increases the good cholesterol
• improves vascular function high antioxidant properties help fight cancer

Now that you know how great cranberries are for your family’s diet, here is some guidelines on buying fresh cranberries:
• Choose firm, ripe cranberries
• Look for cranberries that are deep red color
• Remember, fresh has more antioxidants than the dried cranberries or bottled cranberry drinks
• Fresh cranberries can be stored in the refrigerator for several months. Before storing, discard any soft, discolored, pitted or shriveled fruits.
• Once frozen, cranberries may be kept for several years. To freeze, spread fresh cranberries out on a cookie sheet and place in the freezer. In a couple of hours, the fully frozen berries will be ready to transfer to a freezer bag. Don’t forget to date the bag before returning to the freezer.
• Once thawed, frozen berries will be quite soft and should be used immediately.

Enjoy some seasonally fresh cranberries as part of your holiday season!

Yours in best health,

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs

Book your Little Chefs party now and receive our 1 year Anniversary special!
Contact us for more information 519-940-1131 or info@thelittlechefs.ca
NOTE: Gingerbread decorating classes are filling up fast so book your child's spot soon. Most classes in Erin @ What's Cookin are sold out. A few spots remain for the Friday November 27th @ 7 pm.
in Erin. Some spots in the classes in Orangeville Dec 6th and 12th!

Next Holiday Celebration!

2009-11-10T19:33:00.003-05:00

Now that Halloween is over and hopefully the candy is eaten if you allowed your kids to eat it. I asked my two girls to pick a few items from their bag and the rest was donated to school for sending away. They were quite happy to trade it in for one special item that they could pick out (non food)at a later date.
I have a series of Gingerbread Dreams classes coming up. What is Christmas without the fun of decorating your own Gingerbread House to display in your home!

Gingerbread House Decoration for Children of all ages!
Little Chefs will provide an already built house for each student to decorate. Each child will get a collection of candy to decorate his or her own house.

The children will be assisted with decorating using royal icing, trim, holiday decorations for the houses and other ideas.

This is a hands-on class. Price: $ 30.00

Friday Nov 27th 5pm SOLD OUT! 7 pm at What's Cookin' in Erin
Saturday Nov 28th 12:30pm SOLD OUT Erin

Sunday Dec 6th - Noinkee's in Orangeville @ 3:00pm
Saturday Dec 12th - Alder ST. Rec on Orangeville - 1pm & 3pm

Please register early as spots are filling up fast. 519-940-1131 or info@thelittlechefs.ca

Little Chefs – Healthier Kids One Bite At A Time!

Healthier Treat

2009-10-29T10:08:00.003-04:00

I know in my last post I talked about alternatives to the usual sweet treats for this upcoming Halloween but I thought I would give a nice eas recipe.
A healthier version of a brownie/cake recipe that can be adapted also to cupcakes for a party if you wish.

Buried Treasure Brownies

2 cups whole wheat flour
½ cup cocoa powder
1 1/2tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
½ cup canola oil
½ cup unsweetened apple sauce
¾ cup agave syrup
2 tsp pure vanilla
2 cups shredded zucchini
¼ cup chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 18 muffin tins with papers or can use a cake pan if desired.

In medium bowl combine flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. In a large bowl mix agave syrup, oil, applesauce, and vanilla until well blended. Add flour mix to wet ingredients and stir until combined ( do not over mix) Fold in zucchini and chocolate chips.

Divide the batter between the liners in the muffin cups or in your greased cake pan
Bake until toothpick comes out clean for 17-22 minutes.

Icing
2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate/ chips work well
1 ½ cups of sour cream
1 tsp real vanilla

Melt chocolate over a pan of hot water, or in a bowl in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Transfer to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the sour cream and the vanilla and beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Let cool slightly until the frosting begins to thicken. Makes about 3 cups

Yours in good health,
Lori Tinella, Founder
Little Chefs

Have a Party that COOKS!
info@thelittlechefs.ca
519.940.1131

Healthier Halloween Tips

2009-10-27T10:38:00.004-04:00

Trick or Treat what are you having at your house?

You couldn't ignore Halloween if you tried, not with the shelves of nearly every store piled high with candy. There's chocolate, candy bars, lollypops, licorice, chewy coloured candy in cute shapes, brownie and cookie packs, hard candy, gum, and more ... much more.

This overwhelming reminder of the approach of Halloween represents more than just a tradition of dressing up in costumes to celebrate the day of the dead and then showing them off to your neighbours. Today Halloween is really nothing more than an excuse to eat lots of sugary, insulin-triggering treats.

So in an age when one in four Canadian children are overweight or obese should we be rethinking our manner of celebrating this increasingly popular holiday, or simply carry on with what we've been doing?

Alternatives to Sugar Crashes
Parents and caregivers should try to change the focus of the day away from the habit of collecting and eating candy.
Try to emphasize other fun aspects of Halloween, such as creating great costumes. Some helpful ideas for parents to think about:
•Allowing children to make the rounds of houses in the neighbourhood, but then limiting the candy they are allowed to keep to a reasonable number of their favourite pieces when they return home.
•Predetermine this amount before kids go out and to keep the rule consistent for all children in the family regardless of their age.
•Implement a system of buying back most of the candy their children have collected and then removing it from the home. "Do not keep enough candy in the house for the next six months."
•Try healthier customs. Use the family pumpkin carving experience as a means to encourage healthy eating by making tasty snacks from the interior, such as muffins and baked pumpkin seeds.
•Hold a Halloween block party. Parents meet and plan the event ahead of time and organize entertaining activities such as costume contests, games and even a potluck dinner., Have fun by celebrating the occasion together rather than just gathering candy.

Plan Healthy Halloween Strategies
Rather than go out with your kids, have a Halloween party at the house and have fun watching the other kids come by in their costumes. Limit the amount of "treats" you hand out to other kids and opt for healthier choices. Offer your children Halloween toys or stickers instead of candy. Instead of going around collecting candy, have your child go around collecting loose pennies and nickels for a favourite charity UNICEF is traditionally supported, but it need not be the only one.
If your child does collect candy, have him or her trade in the candy for a new toy or activity such as going to a movie, baseball game or amusement park.

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs
Have a party that COOKS!
Contact me for our 1 year Anniversary Specials!
519-940-1131 or info@thelittlechefs.ca

Happy Halloween from Little Chefs!

2009-10-23T14:30:00.002-04:00

Little Chefs would like to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy Halloween. To celebrate this fun filled day we have classes that are still open for registration at Alder St Recreation Centre this Saturday October 24th!
"Hooray for Halloween"
1pm. Ages 5 and up.

Wear your costume and get a special themed treat! Come for food, fun, crafts, prizes and more..........

You must register by Friday October 23rd at Alder St. guest services desk or call 519-940-1131 for more information on this Spooktakular event!

ABOUT US
Little Chefs is Headwaters Premier mobile cooking studio for kids!
We are a proudly mom-owned and operated business!

Little Chefs
519-940-1131
info@thelittlechefs.ca
www.thelittlechefs.ca

Cooking Healthy Food Fast........

2009-10-21T11:18:00.003-04:00

So-called fast food is a blessing for rushed parents. Not only is it what the name implies but kids can’t get enough of it.
The trouble is that fast food does not get very good press. And rightly so because fast food still tends to be high in fat, salt, sugar and other additives.
But what if you could make the same meal at home? If it didn’t take that much longer to prepare and was so much healthier because you’re controlling what goes into it?

Burger, Fries and Tomato Salsa?
Ingredients:
1 lb organic ground beef
2 cloves garlic
1 teaspoon tomato ketchup
½ teaspoon ready-made mustard
1 teaspoon chilli powder
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 small onion
Olive oil

For Serving:
4 whole grain buns
Iceberg lettuce
Tomato salsa (see below)
Sliced cucumber and tomato
What you do:
· Peel and crush the garlic cloves. Peel and finely dice the onion.
· Using your hands, mix everything, except the oil, together. Divide the mixture into 4 and shape into burgers. It’s a good idea to make the edge slightly thicker: that makes the burger less liable to break up.
· Put them on greaseproof paper and leave them in the fridge, covered with more greaseproof paper, for about 30 minutes before cooking.
· Using a little oil and a non-stick pan, if you have one, fry the burgers until cooked, remembering to turn them once. Alternatively you can brush them with oil and grill them.
· Serve in buns with salad and salsa, and with oven-baked wedges (see below).
· Chicken and turkey are much loved by dieticians for their low fat qualities, and lots of kids prefer white meat burgers

Spicy Turkey Burger
Ingredients:
1 lb ground turkey
1 clove garlic, crushed
½” fresh ginger root, grated
1 small red onion, finely diced
Handful coriander
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoons paprika
½ tablespoon ground dry mustard
½ tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chilli powder
Dash Worcestershire sauce
What you do:
Mix everything together and shape into 4 burgers. Brush lightly with oil and grill until cooked. Serve with tomato salsa and oven-baked wedges (see below).

Oven-baked wedges
Ingredients:
2 baking-sized potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons chilli or curry powder
What you do:
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Scrub the potatoes and cut each potato into 8-10 wedges. Pat them dry with kitchen towel.
Place the chilli/curry powder in a plastic food bag with the oil and shake it up a bit, then add the potato wedges and give them a good shake, rubbing if necessary to make sure they’re all coated.
Spread the wedges out onto a baking tray and cook for 25-30 minutes.

Tomato Salsa
Ingredients:
2 large ripe tomatoes
½ red onion
1 green chili (optional)
Coriander or basil
Salt & pepper
A pinch of sugar
What you do:
Halve the tomatoes and scoop out the seeds. Dice the flesh.
Peel and finely dice the onion. If you’re using a chilli, remove the stalk and seeds and chop very finely. Wash your hands thoroughly afterwards and avoid touching your eyes.
Chop the coriander or basil. Mix everything together, seasoning and adding the sugar, which draws out the flavour of the tomatoes. Leave to stand for 30 minutes.
There are many variations on this recipe. Some include garlic and green peppers; others, especially in the winter, use canned tomatoes and simmer the sauce for a short or long time, depending on the desired consistency! See which is your favourite !

Yours in good health,

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs

Healthier Kids One Bite At A Time!
519-940-1131

Do You Eat Local??

2009-10-05T18:31:00.004-04:00

I am wondering how many of us eat local? It can be hard at times , when you are shopping and you see some nice looking produce but chances are that fruit or vegetable travelled a long distance to get to your supermarket. Be aware when shopping for your fruits and vegetables next time.

Go to http://www.eatrealeatlocal.ca/ to learn more.....

Try to support local Farmer's markets, some are open all year round. Ask at your stores if not sure where the particular food is from.

Support our Ontario Farmers!!

Yours in good health,
Lori
Little Chefs
519-940-1131

Mommy Chefs................

2009-09-29T13:01:00.004-04:00

The leaves are changes and there is a chill in the air. What's for dinner?? Do you struddle with this most nights? Are you getting back into routines now that the kids are back in school?

Last night I(Little Chefs founder/owner) hosted the First Mommy Chef Supper night! It was fantastic........women were chatting,snacking, sipping a little bit of vino and preparing some meals together to put in their home freezer to cook at a later date. How great is that!

Contact me for more information...........seems that everyone who attended wants to book in for each month........I think I may have something!!

Call or e-mail me for more information

Happy Cooking!

Lori Tinella

lori@thelittlechefs.ca
519-940-1131

Get Your Kids Cooking This Fall!

2009-09-16T10:38:00.003-04:00

Late Summer Newsletter
What a way to end our summer with all this beautiful weather! Fall is around the corner and we are all thinking of activities to keep the kids busy when there are not in school. Why not have them try a cooking class or two with Little Chefs!

Here at Little Chefs we are excited about all the upcoming Fall cookshops in Erin and Orangeville.

Fall Cookshops coming up in September *A few spots available so please call or stop by to register and your child's name will be entered in a draw for a prize!

Fall for Veggies! @ What's Cookin in Erin 519-833-0909
Come out and explore the bounty of veggies that are available now! Sunday Sept 20, 2009. 1:00pm & 3:00pm
Healthy Afterschool Snacking! @ Alder St. Recreation Centre in Orangeville
"I'm Hungry what can I make to eat?" Saturday September 26th, 2009. 1:00pm & 3:00pm

To find out more information or about other upcoming classes or events call or e-mail me anytime.

Lori Tinella, Founder Little Chefs
Happy Cooking!

Have a Party that COOKS!
519.940.1131

info@thelittlechefs.ca

Little Chefs Fall Cooking Programs

2009-08-21T08:14:00.003-04:00

NEW Fall Weekend Little Chefs Series at What's Cookin' in Erin & Alder Street Recreation Centre in Orangeville!!

Whats's Cookin'in Erin

Sunday September 20th- Fall for Veggies!
Sunday October 18th- Hooray for Halloween!
Sunday November15th - Delightful yet healthy baking class
Stay tuned for December Gingerbread Dreams classes! Register at What's Cookin' in Erin 519-833-0909

Alder Street Recreation Centre in Orangeville
Saturday September 26th - Fall for Veggies!
Saturday October 24th- Hooray for Halloween!
Saturday November 21st - Fun, Fabulous Fruit!
Saturday December 12th - Gingerbread Dreams! Register at Alder Recreation Centre guest services desk.

** $ 20.00 one-time registration fee for signature Little Chefs apron or t-shirt and recipe book with Fall series.

To schedule your own cooking class or party of 8 or more! Call Little Chefs @ 519-940-1131

Be sure to sign-up early for classes as class size is limited and books up fast.

Thank you again! Whether you've done an event with us in the past or this was the first time with us, Thank you! I look forward to seeing you again.
**Stay tuned for more fun in the kitchen !!

Happy Cooking,

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs
Cook Up Some Fun Today!
info@thelittlechefs.ca
519.940.1131

5-10 A Day!

2009-08-13T00:38:00.005-04:00

Eat Berries Everyone!

• Blueberries
• Strawberries
• Raspberries
• Cranberries
• Blackberries
• And other berries

Helps protect the body from chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. They block the inflammatory process that we are learning more and more about. Eating high fat foods can cause the body to have an inflammatory response.

Some components in berries fight off infections. Cranberries, for example, contain proanthocyanidins that help prevent urinary tract infections by keeping bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder.
Berries taste great and come in so many colors. The darker the better! (more health punch!)

Teach your kids at a young age about the fun of eating berries. A great family day could be going out to a local farm and letting the kids actually pick them!

Here are some Berry helpful tips (sorry, I couldn’t pass that one up)
• Look for colors. The darker the better! (more health punch!)
• Eat a variety
• Eat the whole fruit
• Eat them several times a week

Have a berryful day!!

Yours in good health,
Lori
Little Chefs
519.940.1131

Cooking With Kids

2009-07-22T21:27:00.005-04:00

10 Reasons Why Kids Should Learn To Cook!

Cooking helps kids make Healthy Food Choices - Learning to cook helps kids to learn about nutrition and healthy eating. Growing up with fast food and junk food can be a part of the reason why child obesity is on the rise. Teaching kids to cook healthy instill skills to last them a lifetime.

Boost their Self Esteem. If your child needs a boost of self confidence, (and who doesn't!) cooking in the kitchen will do just that. They are accomplishing a task, learning something important and contributing to the family.

Helps to create Family Time and Bonding. Take time to cook with your kids and they will have memories that they, in turn, can pass on to their families. It may take a longer time to get the meal or snack done but the moments with your children will be priceless.

Kids will be more apt to eat what they make. Perhaps, it is the enthusiasm of creating something themselves, but they will be more likely to eat whatever they had a hand in making.

Kids learn real lessons in Science, Language, Math and Creativity. Cooking will help reinforce all these subjects!

What a great way to learn life skills. This can be especially helpful when kids grow up to be on their own. They won't have to rely on fast food and junk food to sustain them.

They can help contribute to the family and they can feel the importance of helping.

They are working together as a team, whether it is with a parent or with a sibling to get the job done.

Cooking teaches them planning and making choices.

Practice creativity and imagination. Kids cooking activities are a great way to express themselves and enjoy their creations.

Sign-up your child for Weekend Little Chefs classes this summer or fall!
Call for more information.

Happy Cooking,

Lori
Little Chefs
Have a Party that COOKS!

519-940-1131
www.thelittlechefs.ca

Summer Cool Treats Kids Cookshops

2009-07-17T11:14:00.003-04:00

At Little Chefs we love cooking! We are all about getting children excited about eating, fresh healthy food and learning to cook ' real ' food using simple recipes and great ingredients!

Liitle Chefs cookshops and classes are perfect for keen cooks, fussy eaters, and creative kids!!

To kick off our summer cookshops at What's Cookin' , we are offering a fantastic deal.
Any store purchases made while your child attends the cookshop or at pick-up ares TAX-FREE!

We still have a few spots available for our July 19th cool, summer treats classes at 11:30am & 1:30pm.

Please call What's Cookin' to reserve your spot! 519-833-0909

Lori

Little Chefs

Have a Party that COOKS!

519-940-1131

Little Chefs Early Summer Newsletter

2009-07-10T12:16:00.002-04:00

Hello Friends & Family of Little Chefs!

Early Summer Newsletter: Where is the warm weather? No worries it is always hot in the kitchen cooking up some fun with Little Chefs!

Here at Little Chefs we are all excited about all the summer cooking classes and events happening in and around town!!

We are working with Orangeville Parks and Recreation at all their five summer cooking camps. Little Chefs is making a special visit each cooking week to teach the children about healthy eating and making some yummy, healthy foods! www.orangeville.ca

Orangeville Broadway Market: This past Saturday Little Chefs was at the Orangeville Broadway Market doing some Veggie Stamping. Lots of children came out and stamped away with a great assortment of farmers market veggies! We also will be returning for the other Saturday's in July to celebrate Kids Month. www.discoverbroadway.ca for more information.

Orangeville's Annual Founder's Fair: Friday July 10th & Saturday July 11th . We will be attending this years popular family event so come out and have some fun.
We will have a special promotion, draws and a snack that the kids will enjoy making and eating! www.discoverbroadway.ca for more information.

Summer Cookshops at What's Cookin in Erin!

Cool summer Treats
Sunday July 19th 11:30am & 1:30pm

Come cool off with these yummy healthy treats!

Healthy Afterschool Snacking!
Sunday August 16th & 23rd 11:30am & 1:30pm

Come learn some healthy afterschool snacks to make at home!

Sign-up early as class size is limited and book up fast. Stop by What's Cookin' to register or call 519-833-0909

Whether you've done an event with us in the past or this was the first time with us, Thank you! I look forward to seeing you again.

Lori Tinella, Founder Little Chefs

Hope to see you in the kitchen real soon!
519.940.1131
info@thelittlechefs.ca

Kids Cooking Up Some Fun For Dad!!

2009-06-23T17:17:00.005-04:00

This past Sunday Little Chefs Weekend Kids were cooking up some yummy foods for their Dads!
This group consisted of two boys and six girls, all ranging in ages of 5-8 years. The Little Chefs made their own healthy version of a cupcake complete with yummy icing and decorations. While the cakes were baking the pizza chefs were in full action rolling and stretching their doughs to customize it to their Dad's liking! After the pizza's were finished and cooking the kids had a break from cooking and make a placemat. (I will get these to you soon)
The picture you see was taken by a photographer friend of mine. She is an awesome photographer and gladly came out to What's Cooking' to snap lots of photos of all the Little Chefs and myself. Thanks so much Michelle, I really appreciate you coming by to take some photos of my Weekend Little Chefs! Michelle's business is called Captured Moments Photography and she can be reached at 519.938.9344 Have a look at her website to see some of her work. http://www.capturedmomentsphotography.ca/

Happy Cooking, Lori
Stay tuned for more great classes and cookshops around town!

Little Chefs
info@thelittlechefs.ca or 519.940.1131

Cooking with Big Kids...........

2009-06-15T13:51:00.009-04:00

Recently I had the privilege to work with a group of special people. They are called "Special Friends". They told me that their group have been around for 13 years and meet at least once a week.

The reason Little Chefs was involved with this group was because of another special person, Chricket Yule. She helps run the "Special Friends" program" for this group and asked me to come and host a cooking event with her special group of people. Chricket taught both my girls at Station Road Nursery School in Erin, Ontario. She is a an amazing teacher as well!

So "Big Chef" Lori got the chance to have an event with this group and make custom pizzas! Wow, we had fun chopping and organizing all the different topping that everyone had chosen.

Everyone was very much involved and seemed very interested in what I did. I had alot of great helpers ( Allan, Steve, Alistar, Pauline. Trish, Jason etc.. sorry as I do not remember all your names ) It was enjoyable to have the group interact together to prepare for their pizza making. This was a nice change from the usual pizza making party or event with the younger chefs.

All and all I believe everyone enjoyed making their own custom pizza and eating them!! Did not see too many leftovers!! While the pizza's were cooking, fruit was then cut up for some yummy, healthy fruit kabobs with yogurt also for dipping! We had some great chats about healthy eating and snacking at home. I can't wait to get together again over the summer for some more cooking fun!

I hope everyone can have a chance to meet one of these "Special Friends" one day .

Your life will never be the same.

Happy Cooking,

Lori

Little Chefs

Cook Up Some Fun Today!

519-940-1131

http://thelittlechefs.ca/

Cooking Fun This Past Weekend!

2009-06-01T13:52:00.003-04:00

What a blast we all had! This weekend was a Little Chefs cooking party for 9 girls and they all had a great time learning about pizza! All the girls participated in making real from scratch pizza dough. Turned out great! Then each girl rolled and flatted their own dough to create a personal pizza to eat. I must say that these girls needed little instruction as some were 10 years old or almost 10! One younger girl did amazing with prepping her dough and was ahead of the rest in the making of her pizza! Wait ago Jenna! I may call you when I need an assistant for future events!
The girls had lots of fun being more creative customizing the birthday girl's (Kendra) apron.
By the time they were done it truly was an apron which hopefully will have lots of memories to follow!

Sunday was an equally fabulous day with my first workshop held locally in Erin at What's Cookin' on main street. All the kids had a great time mixing up their own giant fruit pancakes!
We had a couple of males participating which is always great to see! Cooking is for boys, girls, young and old as long as you have some Fun! The second class was a hugh success with 12 girls ranging from age 4 to 10 years old. The whole group did amazing and I hope we can do these cookshops again soon!
I hope to post a few pictures soon.

Yours in good health,

Lori
Little Chefs
519-940-1131
info@thelittlechefs.ca

Cooking with Kids Classes

2009-05-27T12:04:00.005-04:00

Local Events around Town with Little Chefs

Looking for a relaxing night out , enjoy a cup of coffee, paint some pottery, shop , have a mini manicure and get some easy summer tips and recipes for summer months ahead?
Come to Joppa's Coffee House in Orangeville where there is a Fun evening planned by some local businesses! Thursday May 28th 7:00-9:00pm @ Joppa's 168B Broadway Ave.

Sunday May 31st bring the kids to What's Cookin' in Erin for some cooking Fun! The kids with have the opportunity to have some hands experience in the kitchen and you do not have to clean up!! Please register at What's Cookin' 98 Main Street, Erin 519-833-0909 to reserve your spot for 1:30pm or 3:00pm.

Father's Day is fast approaching so why not let your kids get cooking! Little Chefs has partnered with Orangeville Parks and Recreation for some cooking programs and events!
Saturday June 13th form 10:00am - 12:00pm is the day and time reserved for your kids to come to Tony Rose Recreation to make something special for Dad. Registration is done at Alder St or Tony Rose or call Tracy @ 519-940-9092 X 4102 to reserve your limited spot. This is a drop off cookshop for 5-13 year olds.

Happy cooking,

Lori Tinella
Little Chefs
519-940-1131
www.thelittlechefs.ca

HAVE A PARTY THAT COOKS!

**Spring Promo Book a Little Chefs cooking party this summer and receive one free guest!**

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-11T09:30:00.003-04:00

I hope that all the Mother's out there did something they enjoyed this weekend. Maybe brunch, lunch or dinner with your kid(s) or maybe some spa time??
I had my Mom up to my place for a few days and I took her and my two little girls to a local Spa for some pampering! My mother had never had a pedicure so this is what I treated her too. She loved it and so did my little girls! Both girls got their finger and toe nails painted after my mom and I had our amazing pedicure. It is nice to start off the sandel session with pretty feet!!

The Spa in Belfountain is great and Rose is amazing! I just found out that they are moving to the main street in Erin above the Kulhay Wellness clinic June 1st. Go check them out they all are great and we never can pamper ourselves enough as Moms!! www.thespa.ca is their website.

**Leave me a comment on what you did special for Mothers day and I will send one of you a coupon for $ 10.00 off a service at this Spa which is now going to be in Erin.

Please join Little Chefs this Thursday May 14th 10:30am - 12:30pm at the Lina Lounge www.linalounge.biz for some fun snack making as we enjoy The hungry caterpillar! Check out their website it is a great place for parents and kids.

Cook Up Some Fun Today with your kids!!

Book a Little Chefs cooking party for June , July or August and receive our warm weather promotion of Free loot bags with any cooking party package!

Yours in good health,

Lori

Little Chefs
519-940-1131

Spring Has Sprung So Lets Get Outside!!

2009-04-13T12:34:00.006-04:00

Has Spring Arrived?? I ask the question as the weather has been abit weird lately. Snow last Monday but spring flowers were popping up the week before!

Well I am excited to get outside in under 15 minutes without all the winter gear and breathe in some fresh spring air. Besides I need to get my backside in gear since eating too much chocolate these past days!!

Speaking of chocolate, anyone who knows me knows that chocolate is on my list of three survival things if every desserted on a island. (The others are cheese and wine!) So this Easter weekend I decide to make a favorite of many but not made by me in a long time. Chocolate Mousse Cake!! I must say that it gots rave reviews by both families over this Easter weekend.

So I decided that this is what I plan to teach the children to make at Little Chefs Mother's Day Cookshop this coming May 9th . It is held at Tony Rose Recreation Centre in Orangeville from 10:00am -12:00pm! It is a drop off class for 5-13 years olds and sure to be a hit with all the Mothers.
Well as least the ones that live for their daily chocolate fix!!
Please register at either Tony Rose or Alder Recreation Centre today as these book up fast!
Call for more info at 519-940-1131

Yours in good health,
Lori

Little Chefs Cook Up Some Fun Today!
info@thelittlechefs.ca

Are Kids Eating Too Much Junk??

2009-04-08T21:17:00.003-04:00

Thought that with Easter around the corner and treats galore parents should be planning ahead!

Very few of us can resist eating junk food so imagine the battle in getting your kids to stop eating it! The sad fact is that junk food is all around us - you can't get away from it! How to get kids to kick this habit can be a huge problem. You may never be rid of junk food entirely but here are some ways you can introduce "healthier foods" into your kids' diets and help them reduce those junk food cravings!

~Start by being a good role model and establish a solid foundation of healthy eating habits while your children are young. Create an environment that encourages nutritious eating for everyone, so no junking it in front of the kids! Try to prepare 3 nutritious meals and 2 healthy snacks per day. Content kids are less likely to seek fast food. Educate kids at an early age about nutrition and smart food choices.
~Take your kids grocery shopping. Teach them how to read labels and how to identify unhealthy ingredients.
~Bring healthy snacks with you on outings so you won't have to buy anything at the snack bar. ~Offer younger kids many new and different varieties of foods - this keeps things interesting so they don't get bored, always eating the same foods. If they don't like something, don't force them to eat it but do try again at a later time.
~Try switching to low-salt variety of their favourite snack chip or crackers - it's a start! Even better, opt for baked snacks instead of fried. Choose popcorn or pretzels instead of potato chips for a quick nibble. Buy lower-fat, lower-salt, sugar-free versions of your kids' favourites.
~If your kids are into sweets, try baking your own treats and reducing the amount of sugar and fats by half.
~If your kids can't live without candy or chocolate, save it for a special occasion rather than an everyday indulgence. Make it a once a week treat!
~Offer fruit juice instead of pop. For a carbonated treat, mix 1/2 cup of fruit juice with 1/2 cup of plain carbonated water or sodium-free soda water.~Instead of an ice cream, try frozen yogurt desserts or a real fruit frozen juice pop. Try a fruit smoothie instead of a milkshake.
~If you must have pizza, eliminate the high-fat toppings such as sausage, pepperoni and meatballs, and stick with vegetable toppings instead.
~As a treat, try to make "Fast-Food" at home. Tacos, burritos, fajitas, and pizza are dinners that most kids love.

Eating some junk once in awhile should be allowed but it should be the exception, not the rule, for healthier eating habits!

By Toronto4Kids

Yours in good health,

Lori

Little Chefs Healthier Kids One Bite at a Time! 519-940-1131

2009-04-07T21:32:00.005-04:00

Isn't it great to be Canadian eh? :) Gotta love all the snow instead of the April showers!!

We are at Lina's Lounge this Friday (Good Friday) for Easter Cupcake decorating 10:30am-12:30am, Go to www.linalounge.biz to see all the highlights for this great place for parents and kids!

Speggtacular Classes and Cookshops April/2009

Little Chefs is "In the Mix"
Spring is here and with that come April Showers, why stay cooped up at home?? Little Chefs and Orangeville Parks & Recreation are mixing up tons of fun in the kitchen for students and families. Spring on over to register for our classes and holiday cookshops fast as spaces are limited! Registration is happening at the guest services desk at both Recreation Centres.

Some spaces still available in the Following Classes:

Little Chefs Afterschool Cooking Club (drop-off class) 5-12 years
Wednesdays - Tony Rose Recreation Centre, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
April & May
Come celebrate Orangeville's first afterschool cooking club!. First learn the basics with kitchen safety and hygiene but then it is off to adventures in snack attack, breakfast for dinner, fruit fiesta, garden time and budding bakers!!
All classes include food/nutrition crafts, games and recipe book to take home.

Preschool-Parent Class (family class-one parent + child) 2-5 years
Fridays - Tony Rose Recreation Centre 10:00AM - 11:00 AM
April & May
Come share some special time with your preschooler cooking up some fun! Prepare a recipe together based on a classic story told at beginning of the class. Craft time is also included.

Spring Cookshops 5-13 years
Hoppy Easter Cookie Decorating
Saturday, April 11, 2009, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Hop on over to Tony Rose and join our fun filled Easter cookie decorating class.
These sweet treats are a great addition to any Easter feast!
Price: $25.00 **

Mothers' Day Special Gift for Mom!
Come make Mom something she will enjoy on her " Special Day "
Saturday May 9, 2009, 10:00AM - 12:00PM
Price: $25.00

Father's Day Special Gift
June 13, 2009, 10:00AM - 12:00PM
Come make a favorite for your Dad to remember!
Price: $ 25.00

**Book all three cookshop sessions and save $ 10.00 or book two cookshop sessions and save $ 5.00

We will be adding new cookshops and classes to our line up so be sure to check the website www.orangeville.ca or call 519-940-9092 X 4106

Save 10% off your next Little Chefs Cooking Party for a group of 8 or more. Not valid with any other offer or promotion. Call or e-mail to reserve your date. Mention Promo code SpringPR09
519.940.1131 or info@thelittlechefs.ca
Offer Expires: May 30, 2009

Cupcake Bake For March Break!

2009-03-11T22:29:00.004-04:00

Little Chefs…healthier kids one bite at a time!

2009 Sessions Have Begun!
Check The New Orangeville Parks & Rec Spring/Summer Brochure*
*Delivered with The Banner March 10th

Little Chefs Presents ~ The March Break Cupcake Bake!

What child doesn't like making homemade cupcakes?
Say 'good-bye' to store bought, instant cupcakes and say 'hello!' to delicious, chocolate, carrot, and pumpkin spice cupcakes from scratch!

Kids will learn one of the above recipes from scratch, plus discover the origins of the first "cup-cake". Each child will decorate their own home-made cupcakes with an assortment of real butter-cream/cream cheese icings and colourful decorations – this is the part kid's love best!

Little Chefs is partnering with Orangeville Parks & Rec offering a bakeshop class during the camp day for children aged 5-12 on Tuesday March 17th and Thursday March 19th 12:30-2:30pm. Included is a printed copy of the cupcake recipe to take home.
What better way to spend your Spring Break! Yum !!

Contact Tracy at Orangeville Parks & Rec to reserve your spot as they are limited
519-940-9092 X 4106

Look for all New Spring Programs in the Parks and Rec brochure that came out with the Orangeville Banner March 10th. Or pick up a copy at Alder arena or Tony Rose Arena.

Yours in good health,

Lori
Little Chefs

Have a Party that COOKS!
519-940-1131

March is National Nutrition Month!

2009-03-02T12:57:00.004-05:00

Here are some great tips!!

Grocery shopping:

★ Let the kids help put the fruit or vegetable into the grocery cart
★ Teach them how fruits and vegetables gives us clues on how ripe they are
★ Ask them “What is this banana telling us?” “Is it ready to eat yet?” “Should we pick that
bunch?”
★ Teach kids to read food labels, as a great way to learn how some foods are better for you than
other
★ Choose cereals with low or no added sugar
★ Look for whole grain cereals and breads with at least 4 gram of fiber
★ Take an outing to a local farmers market to teach kids about where their food comes from
At Home:
★ Let the kids help put away the fruits and vegetables
★ Try to arrange the fruit bowl so you have many different colors showing- make it a game,
★ As they are putting away the fruits and vegetables, guess where they came from
Cooking Tips:
★ Involve your child in cooking and preparing meals
★ Limit the amount of added sugar in your child’s diet
★ Cook with less fat—bake, roast, or poach foods instead of frying
★ Choose and prepare foods with less salt

Mealtime:

★ Make sure your child eats breakfast. Breakfast provides children with the energy
they need to listen and learn in school.
★ Eat Together As a Family for at least one meal a day
★ Set a regular time for family meals
★ Eat at the table since it is easier to talk with each other, rather than in front of the TV
★ Actually, turn off the TV at mealtime so you can talk and share the events of the day
★ Serve water, low-fat milk or 100% fruit juice more often than sugar-sweetened sodas and
fruit-flavored drinks
★ Introduce new foods, vegetables and fruits at mealtime
★ Encourage your child to put a small quantity on their plate, even if they won’t eat it
★ Don’t nag, its okay if they refuse initially, introduce the food again in a few weeks
★ Demonstrate how delicious it is to taste that food
★ Don’t get upset if they don’t like the food or meal, don’t take it personally
★ Have a contest on which plate is the most colorful (fruits and vegetables in a rainbow of
color!)
★ Try new recipes, often kids will try vegetables when mixed with other foods or special sauces
★ Keep the salt shaker off the table
★ Offer fresh fruit for dessert

Little Chefs favorite snack ideas:
• Prepare snacks in advance and have them easy to reach
• Have fruits and vegetables washed and cut up for convenience. Kids often reach for the
ready to go snack
• Try low fat dip recipes for fruits and veggies, kids love dipping!
• Fruits and nuts
• Low-fat yogurt and fresh fruit
• Peanut butter and celery
• Low-fat cheese quesadilla
• Bowl of whole grain cereal plain or with low fat milk or fat-free milk
• String cheese and crackers
• Turkey sandwich on a piece of whole wheat bread
• Cottage cheese and fruit
• Fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables or fruit served plain or with low-fat yogurt
• Rice cakes, whole-grain crackers, or whole-grain bread served with low-fat cheese, fruit
spread, peanut butter, almond butter, or soy nut butter
• Pretzels or air-popped popcorn sprinkled with salt-free seasoning mix
• Homemade fruit smoothie made with low-fat milk or yogurt and frozen or fresh fruit

Cook Up Some Fun Today!

Yours in good health,

Lori
Little Chefs

519-940-1131
littlechefs@sympatico.ca

Cooking Classes for Kids

2009-02-28T00:07:00.004-05:00

Yahoo afterschool cooking classes are on there way!!
I have recently partnered with Orangeville Parks and Rec for some great daytime classes.
There will be class sessions afterschool on Wednesdays and daytime Parent-tot classes on Friday mornings!
Look for more information in the local Orangeville paper.....
Also forgot some great march break program additions with parks and rec programs already set-up. We will be offering a Cupcake Bake on two days of the march break program week. Making cupcakes from scratch with real icings too! Yummy!
Contact Tracey at Alder Rec Centre for more information. 519-940-9092 X 4106

Yours in good health,

Lori
Have a Party that Cooks!!!

Stay tuned upcoming Easter Event in the end of March.....lots of fun for the kids!!

Little Chefs
519-940-1131
littlechefs@sympatico.ca

Valentine's Day Kids Event

2009-02-05T09:08:00.003-05:00

Love is in the Air…………………..

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching so why not come to a fun community event of shopping, valentine cupcake decorating and pottery painting
Bring a food item or cash donation for local food bank allowing entrance and ballots for draws
Great gift ideas and fun for kids and adults.
When: Saturday February 7th, 10-2pm
Where: Peekaboo Child Care Centre
69 Third Street, Orangeville.

Cook Up Some Fun!
519-940-1131

Still time left to book your February cooking party, some dates still available!

Coming soon March Break events ......................

Yours in good health,
Lori
Litttle Chefs
littlechefs@sympatico.ca

Do Kids Eat Too Much Sugar??

2009-01-22T21:34:00.002-05:00

As parents, we try to encourage healthy eating and with the growing epidemic of childhood obesity, serving sweets comes with a feeling of guilt. Should sweets be limited or eliminated from our child’s diet? For the purpose of this , sweets are foods like typical cookies, chocolate bars, sweet pastries and candy. There are many differing schools of thought when it comes to feeding sweets to children. Sweets are not entirely responsible for the obesity epidemic we are facing. Fatty foods contribute much more to obesity than sugary foods because fatty foods have twice the calories of sugary foods per given amount. Sweets are however a contributing factor to dental problems in children. The following are some helpful tips when it comes to serving sweets to young children.
Outlawing sweets completely does not teach children the right lessons for later in life.
Depriving children of sweets often leads to curiosity and a fascination with that food. This will only create cravings for what they are not allowed to have and make them want it even more. The more a parent makes an issue of it, the more it becomes an unnecessary battle. Find a middle ground when it comes to sweets.
Make sweets a treat, not a reward
A treat is something that is given once in a while for a special occasion like a birthday party or celebration. You don't want to give sweets the "power" of being a reward. This power can heighten the importance of such foods.
Help them grow up with a healthy relationship with food
Talk to your children about eating sweets in moderation and explain to them why it is important to limit sweet consumption. Children who learn the importance of eating a balanced diet will be better-equipped to manage their own diet as adults.
Be a discriminating grocery shopper
Always check the label of the sweets you bring into the house. The more sweets that are available at home, the more your child will want and eat them. Avoid products that have sugar or other sweeteners high on the ingredient list. To find out if a food has added sugar, look at the ingredient list for sugar, corn syrup or sweetener, dextrose, fructose, honey, or molasses. When purchasing breakfast cereals and cookies try and ensure sugar or its other forms are not the first ingredient.
Control portioning and frequency of sweets
As parents, we determine how much and how often sweets are served to our children. Set limits to the amount of sweets they are allowed to have to ensure they are not binging. Limit deserts to once or twice a week and serve them in a smaller bowl. Make desert a special occasion instead of a routine and when eating out, share a desert as a family.
Healthy foods can be a “sweet” snack too!
There are many healthy foods that are sweet too! Serve dried fruits such as dates or raisins. Fresh fruits such as strawberries and apples are a wonderful sweet snack. Be a role modelWalk the talk! Children are like sponges and copy everything parents do. They learn eating habits from the adults in their lives. Eat the way you would like them to eat so they can learn what a good diet is.
Form good dental habits
Most importantly, ensure you insist that your child brushes their teeth after eating sweets. A sweet tooth can become a decayed tooth if good dental habits are not formed early on. The thing to remember is that eating any food in moderation is healthy. Eating too much of any food is unhealthy. It is important to limit the amount of sweets your children eat and most importantly, help them build a healthy relationship with all foods.
Last but not least get in the kitchen and cook with them!
When a child expresses their creativitity with their food they will be more likely to eat it. Let them have fun with food and develop a love for cooking. Cooking is a life skill they need once they are out in the big world!

Cook Up Some Fun!

Little Chefs Parties, events, lessons in healthy cooking for kids!

Book a cooking party for your next event! Call 519-940-1131 or littlechefs@sympatico.ca

Yours in good health,
Lori

Happy healthy eating in 2009!

2009-01-06T10:59:00.002-05:00

I must apoligize I have not posted for almost a month. Where did the month go???
Well numerous cooking events, cooking parties, making shortbread dough-to-go, decorating house, attending Christmas concerts, Little Chefs planning for 2009............... Oh I almost forgot all the eating and drinking that has also happened over this month. Maybe that is why the delay!

I would like to wish everyone a very Happy, Healthy, New Year. This year 2009 is going to be a great one!
Little Chefs has alot of things that are in the works for the first quarter of this great new year! More details to follow..........

Another local event at the Peekaboo Child Care Centre in Orangeville is planned for Saturday February 7th.
It will be great as we have partnered with a couple of other local businesses to have a fun filled Valentine's Event! " Love is in the Air"
Please look for all the details in your inboxes in the next couple of weeks.

Yours in good health,

Lori

Little Chefs Cook Up Some Fun Today!
519-940-1131
info@thelittlechefs.ca

Cooking safety with Kids in the Kitchen

2008-12-08T10:15:00.003-05:00

Little Chefs safety in the kitchen!

Kids can learn a lot by spending time with you in the kitchen, plus they can be a great help in making school lunches and family dinners. Introduce or remind your kids about these basic kitchen safety tips so you can enlist their help when those busy back to school schedules begin!
Always wash hands before and after cooking especially when handling any raw meats.
Wash and dry all fruits and vegetables very thoroughly. (Younger kids can help hand peel fruits or use a vegetable peeler, while ages 6 and over cut fresh herbs with safety scissors.)
Check the expiry dates on packages and immediately refrigerate any uneaten food after meals.
Keep reusable plastic containers clean and safe from bacteria by washing well with warm soapy water after every use.
Stay away from hot ovens, burners, or any hot dishes that have just been removed from the oven.
When unsupervised, never handle a knife or any other sharp utensil, and never touch or move any pot or pans cooking on the range.
Wear short sleeves, long sleeves pose a greater risk of catching fire or falling into hot grease or boiling water.
Wear an apron to prevent stains on clothing and especially for protection against splattered oil or hot water.
Clean up any spills on the floor or clutter as you cook to ensure no one trips or falls around appliances and hot stoves.

Book a Little Chefs party or event and have your child enjoy cooking up some fun!
Call 519-940-1131 or e-mail littlechefs@sympatico.ca

Yours in good health,

Lori

Healthy Snacks & Beverages for Kids

2008-11-17T12:56:00.007-05:00

With the Holidays around the corner , we all are very busy!! Eating healthy can get abit more difficult with all the on-the-go!! Here are some great tips on healthly snacks and beverages for kids and kids at heart!

"Mom, I’m hungry!" Sound familiar? It’s important to grab the right delicious and nutritious snack for your child, since snacks make up a significant part of kids’ diet. A recent large study from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (part of the National Institutes of Health) found that about one-third of a child’s total daily calories come from pizza, desserts and snacks. So, better make those snacks as tasty and healthy as possible! Here are our top picks.
Trail mix. Help kids make their own custom trail mix, advises Mary Friesz, a registered dietitian in Boca Raton, Fla., and author of Food, Fun ‘n Fitness: Designing Healthy Lifestyles for Our Children. Set out raisins, sunflower seeds, nuts (unless you’ll be in a nut-free zone), roasted soy nuts and dried fruit and let the kids scoop ¼ to 1/3 of a cup of their own combo into small bags. Pop in the freezer or fridge to keep fresh, and grab when you’re on the go.

Fruit, veggies and dip. “Most kids love to dip their food, so take advantage of it!” says Mairlyn Smith, a Toronto, Ont., home economist and co-author of The Ultimate Healthy Eating Plan (Whitecap). Mix a bit of cinnamon into French vanilla yogurt and dip fruit into it, or try Velvety vanilla yogurt dip with fruit. Another dip idea: mix low-fat plain yogurt with a bit of regular ranch dressing for lots of flavor without a lot of fat.

Smoothies. Whirl low-fat yogurt, fruit and ice in the blender to create one-of-a-kind – and yummy! – smoothies. Or stir a teaspoon or two of chocolate drink mix into a tall frosty glass of one per cent milk.

Roll-ups.“Turkey or chicken ‘cigars’ were a big hit with my son when he was growing up,” says Smith. Just roll up a thin slice of roasted luncheon meat, such as turkey or chicken, and enjoy. Add a smear of mustard if you want. Or, spread a small whole-wheat tortilla with peanut butter or light cream cheese, roll and slice. Tortilla “sushi” wraps are fun too.
Store-bought picks. Even if you’re pushed for time, you can still make healthy choices. Smith suggests small yogurt cups or lower-fat round cheeses like Baby Bel. Friesz likes the occasional package of “cheese strings,” baked chips and salsa or bean dip, or a small cup of lentil soup. And nothing is easier or more portable than a few whole-grain crackers, pre-washed baby carrots or a piece of fruit!Smart Snacking Tips

Kids begging for the prepackaged cheese, crackers and lunch meat? Make your own healthier version. Pick up a few reusable containers with dividers, and add fruit, veggies, cheese, whole grain crackers and other good stuff. Add a frozen container of milk, water or 100 per cent fruit juice to keep things cool until snack time.

“Make healthy snacks visible,” advises Friesz. Cut up fruit and veggies ahead of time and put them front and center in the fridge. And make a habit of saying “look in the fridge” first (rather than the cupboard where the sweet stuff likely lives).

“Jazzy names work well,” notes Smith, who found that lunch meat “cigars” were popular in her household. “Ants on a log” – celery spread low-fat cream cheese and topped with raisins – are good too, says Friesz.

From Kaboose.com

Yours in good health,
Lori

Little Chefs
Have a Party that Cooks!

519-940-1131

Holiday Baking Events at Little Chefs

2008-11-03T01:05:00.009-05:00

Here is a copy of some upcoming baking events!!!

Sugar and Spice Holiday Baking With Little Chefs!!

Gather your kids for a fun-filled hour of baking some cookies for the holidays! The budding bakers can explore hands-on making and decorating of holiday cookies!
Little Chefs will provide all the ingredients.
Drop off your child for some sweet fun!

Sunday Nov 23nd 10:30am 3-6 year olds
12:30pm 7-12 year olds

Saturday Dec 6th 10:30am 3-6 year olds
12:30pm 7-12 year olds

PLUS** Parents we will have Little Chefs " Dough to go" available to take or order!
Cut dough frozen, place on cookie sheet, thaw 15 minutes and cook!!
Available in Mini 8-12 cookies depending on the cookie size and Maxi 18-24 cookies

Location: Peekaboo Child Care Centre
69 Third Street, Orangeville.
Cost $ 10.00 per child * Bring a food bank item and receive 15% off!!
Contact Little Chefs to reserve your spot! Yummy!

519.940.1131 or littlechefs@sympatico.ca

Cook Up Some Fun Today!

Yours in good health,

Lori

Kids Halloween Trick or Treating

2008-10-29T18:06:00.002-04:00

Tips for staying safe for kids at risk (allergies)

Halloween is fast approaching. As the kids get ready to have some fun, remember some key rules to keep them safe.
For parents and kids at-risk:
Be organized
Always have children accompanied by an adult when out
Remember to always carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen or Twinject)
Wear MedicAlert identification
Dont go out hungry
Ensure the kids have a hearty dinner before venturing out so they will be less tempted to snack enroute
Emphasize the 'no eating' rule when kids are out
Check all treats
Ask the kids to wash their hands as soon as they come home
Have the kids sort through the candy with an adult at the end of the evening
Read the label carefully on each treat - no label, no candy
Consider donating the extra treats to your local food bank
For the community:
Don't be shy - ask when kids come to the door: "Does anyone have a food allergy?"
Be prepared - have food packages and their labels nearby, so you can check ingredients if asked
Think outside the candy box - if in doubt, have non-candy treats available too such as stickers or trading cards
We wish you all a happy and safe Halloween!
Anaphylaxis Canada

Yours in good health,

Lori

Beauty is only skin deep!

2008-10-28T21:23:00.004-04:00

Good evening,

This post is a little off the usual path about Little Chefs or cooking with my kids. I am so excited about something that happened to me today.
I must first confess I am a bit of a computer junkie / addict. I am been known to surf around the web for long amounts of time in the evening. ( Just ask my husband who finds me in front of it and say's " Are you still on the computer?" )
I have a number of newsletters that are in my inbox on a daily or weekly basis . I love information . Information about health, cooking , kids, parenting, crafts. These are my favorites!

Today Erica Ehm called me personally! She is the founder of the Yummy Mummy Club! Which I have been a member for some time now. http://www.yummymummyclub.ca/ Check it out , they have amazing articles, blogs, and contests! I have followed her career since the 80's with Much Music and all.
It was so nice of her to call me personally after I had e-mailed her a question about beauty products that she had reccommended.
We chatted for a while and she seems like a great person! I hope to get a chance to meet her soon.

Yours in good health,

Lori

2008-10-22T23:23:00.004-04:00

My Little Chef Angelina!!!

Here is the Yummy recipe for the Pumpkin Cookies I spoke about last week.

Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Ingredients
· 1 cup (250 mL) butter
· 1/2 cup (125 mL) granulated sugar
· 1/2 cup (125 mL) brown sugar
· 1 egg
· 1 cup (250 mL) pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
· 1 cup (250 mL) all purpose flour
· 1 cup (250 ml) whole wheat flour
· 2 tbsp ground flax meal
· 1 tsp. (5 mL) cinnamon
· 1/2 tsp. (2 mL) ground ginger
· 1/2 tsp. (2 mL) baking powder
· 1/4 tsp. (1 mL) baking soda
Cooking Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until creamy, scraping down the sides once or twice. Add the egg and beat until well mixed, then add the pumpkin puree and continue beating for about a minute.
2. In another bowl, stir together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, ground flax, baking powder and baking soda. Add this mixture to the butter mixture in two or three portions, beating well after each addition. Refrigerate dough for about 1 hour or until firm enough to handle.
3. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a cookie sheet or two with parchment paper.
4. By hand, roll the dough into 1 to 1-1/2 inch balls. Place on the cookie sheet about 1-inch apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until bottom is lightly browned and cookie is springy but firm. Remove from cookie sheets and let cool completely.
Servings: Makes 3-1/2 dozen.

Enjoy!!!

Yours in good health,

Lori

Kids going out for Halloween in snow!

2008-10-22T10:30:00.005-04:00

Good morning,

"Welcome to my new blog "Little Chefs Cooking Up Some Fun!" I am starting to blog about my adventures of owning my own New small business. My other Full Time job is Mom to two beautiful girls!
I guess I am what is called a Mompreneur!

I hope to get a website going but I will use my blogging to post information as well as local events.
I am up for the challenge as I think Little Chefs needs web presence. I would like to let people know about the parties, lessons and upcoming events. I am planning a Holiday Gingerbread House making class for kids for December! More details on locations and dates to follow.

Yesterday was an odd day as it was cold and ended up snowing on and off throughout the day. My girls went to school with Fall jackets + hats + gloves but could have had their winter coats!
Can anyone remember having snow or extreme cold weather for trick or treating?
Sent me a comment on this.

Yours in good health,
Lori

Little Chefs
519-940-1131

Kingsize!!!

2008-10-19T10:14:00.004-04:00

I never thought a kingsize bed would not be big enough. Well I discovered the hard way that it is not big enough for even 1 adult and 2 small girls. Last night I invited my girls into mommy and daddy's bed for a little sleep together since we were not sleeping up at the cabin. I have slept with my girls before seperately since birth, when they wanted to be on my chest as well as all the night time breastfeedings. It was the only way I could function especially when the second child came along. That is when we decided that a bigger bed was needed. King is the biggest so off we went to find the King mattress for our platform bed that we already had.

Last night was one of worst sleeps in a very long time! Both girls are movers..not just turning back and forth but full out gymnastics using all parts of the mattress! Refereeing was also needed throughout the night as the gymnastics sometimes involved colliding!

I love my daughters to the end of the earth but they are sleeping in their own beds tonight!
Off to get another coffee.....

Yours in good health,
Lori

Healthy Food and Kids!

2008-10-17T11:01:00.005-04:00

The main reason other than having my own business for Little Chefs is helping educate children on eating healthier. If I can help educate them that eating and cooking healthy can be fun and easy then I will be quite pleased.
" Healthier Kids One Bite At A Time " One of my tag lines............. Anyhow I do not consider myself a sneaky chef with food for my two girls but as they get older they have become more picky with eating. So the other day I was trying out a new recipe with pumpkin in it. Pumpkin, real pumpkin like from the Jack-O-Lanterns that you may have craved up ( or a can from the store ) It can not be pumpkin pie filling but only pumpkin puree.

My Little Chefs ( Alyssa & Angelina ) have joyfully agreed to help make this cookie recipe to see if we can then decorate them with icing /sprinkles after. As we progress along with adding all the wet ingredients together and then on to the dry ingredients one of my girls noticed the pumpkin colour and says " Did you put pumpkin in the cookies Mommy?" I think for a second or two and answer " Yes, pumpkin is actually good for you!" Not what I should have said because most children do not want to eat things that look odd, smell odd, or have not had before! So I then hear " Yuk , I am not going to eat these cookies Mommy" I chose to ignore that comment because I have become quite good at ignoring my kids at times. Something you need to do at times when you are with your children 24/7 ! ( except for when they are at school )

Well the cookies did not try out as we planned. They were to flatten out during cooking so once cooled they could be decorated. So I heard a few boo hoos about not being able to decorate these cookies but once offered one to eat they did take one.
Surprise they loved them! No icing, no chocolate, no sprinkles just this soft, chewy, moist and yummy cookie. They even wanted more!!
So do not fool you kids when it comes to food. Be honest, make it fun and most of all try to make it healthy!
They might even surprise you!! I will add the recipe later and may include some pictures too!

Yours in good health,
Lori

To Blog or not to Blog?

2008-10-16T12:55:00.001-04:00

Well what is the answer?? Everyone now a days has a blog. Right? If you just want a place to write, drive traffic to your website, get things off your chest and have people read them! Well I did it , I created my very first blog! I hope you can get something out of it and enjoy my posts.

I recently started my very own business and am very excited, scared, terrified ,excited, oh I said that already..anyhow I want to use this as a source of information about my "Little Chefs" business and how it grows from its infancy.

Please excuse any grammer or spelling errors but I will try to keep it short and sweet! No pun intended as I will sometimes include some great new recipes that I have developed or tryed and it could be a sweet one!

Thanks in advance for taking time to read about the happenings of Little Chefs cooking up some fun!

Yours in good health,
Lori