It’s nearly mid-September, the perfect time to celebrate National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day on September 13, 2023. This special day encourages children and adolescents to roll up their sleeves, put on their aprons, and join their parents or guardians in the heart of the home – the kitchen. It’s not just about making delicious meals; it’s about creating memories, spending quality time together, and imparting one of life’s most essential skills: cooking.
Cooking with Kids: More Than Just a Meal
National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day isn’t just about preparing food; it’s about nurturing the bond between parents and children while teaching invaluable life skills. The kitchen becomes a classroom where kids can learn about teamwork, patience, creativity, and the science of food. Here are some exciting activities you can enjoy on this special day:
- Get Your Little Helpers Involved: Step aside and let your little ones take charge of meal preparation (with supervision, of course, for safety). Whether it’s helping with chopping vegetables, stirring sauces, or setting the table, they’ll feel like culinary superstars.
- Watch a Cooking Show: Swap out the usual cartoons for a kids’ cooking competition or educational cooking show. It’s a fun way for your kids to learn new techniques and get inspired by the creativity of young chefs.
- Teach Kids About the Science of Food: Take this opportunity to delve into the science of food with your young chefs. Explain the importance of different food groups – carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water. Categorize the meals you eat and discuss how they contribute to overall health.
Now, let’s add a sprinkle of southern charm to your family’s National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day with a delightful recipe featuring South Arkansas pecans. It’s a perfect blend of nutty goodness and a touch of sweetness that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Recipe: Southern Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped South Arkansas pecans
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown.
- Let it cool completely before cutting it into squares.
- Enjoy your homemade Southern Pecan Pie Bars with your little chefs!
National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day is not only a day of culinary exploration but also an opportunity to create lasting memories and strengthen the bond between generations. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your aprons, and let the kitchen adventures begin! Today, it’s all about family, fun, and the joy of cooking together. Happy cooking!