Crock-pot meals are a family favorite as they usually use just a few ingredients and are quick to put together. While most children can be picky eaters, there are several crock-pot dishes that they're sure to love. And they may even enjoy helping out in the kitchen.
Peaches and Cream Casserole Breakfast
A simple breakfast brunch can be made in a crockpot by preparing the meal early in the morning. One kid- and mom-pleasing breakfast is Peaches and Cream. First spray or grease the crockpot. Then have your child measure and put into the crockpot 3 cups of skim milk, 2 egg whites, 2 tsp. of vanilla extract and ¼ tsp. of almond extract. In a separate bowl, mix together 1 ½ cups sliced peaches with ¼ cup sugar and 1 ½ cups rolled oats. Add this mixture to the crockpot. Put on the cover and set the timer on low. Let the mixture cook in the crockpot between 3 to 4 1/2 hours. If it is too thick, thin with milk.
Barbecued Chicken or Pork
Another kid-friendly meal is barbecued pork or chicken. Adapted from a recipe at Cooks.com, this recipe is easier and quicker. Simply take approximately 2 1/2 to 3 lbs. of your favorite cuts of pork or chicken and put them in the crockpot. Cover the meat with your favorite barbecue sauce. Put on the lid and cook on high for 6 to 7 hours. Adjust the cooking time, if necessary, depending on the meat cuts to ensure that the meat is thoroughly cooked. According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, pork should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Chicken should be cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Beef Stew
Children can easily help put together a beef stew by combining frozen, fresh or canned vegetables such as corn, carrots, peas, potatoes and green beans with a beef roast in a crockpot and cooking it on low for 10 to 12 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. The vegetables go in first; then, add the beef roast. Pour 2 cups of beef broth over the beef to add liquid. Salt and pepper the beef to taste along with any other preferred seasonings. Beef is fully cooked and the stew is finished when the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Custard Dessert
Children will delight in the opportunity to help make a delicious dessert. Try this custard recipe from A Crock Cook for a sweet treat. Have your child measure and put into the crockpot 2 cups of milk, 5 eggs, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla and a pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture and then sprinkle with nutmeg. Cook on low for 8 hours.
Tags: degrees Fahrenheit, beef roast, child measure, child measure into, crockpot cups