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Fishing for Compliments: Getting Kids to Eat Fish


    




Most parents feel like they have to "bait" their kids into eating fish, with only small percentage actually getting "hooked". In past articles, we’ve tackled vegetables now let’s discuss some tricks to get kids to eat fish!

Refusing food, kid does not want to eatFirst off, try introducing a milder tasting fish like tilapia (the most neutral tasting fish), cod, haddock, cat fish or rainbow trout.

Another tip - skip the frozen fish sticks. Instead create your own breaded fish by coating the fillets in flour, egg wash (beaten eggs, can add milk) and then seasoned breadcrumbs. Bake or broil in the oven to avoid excess oil which is used when frying fish.

Something I do at home, try adding tuna into the kids’ favourite pasta sauce. It’s pasta! That in itself might sell them.

Two words: fish tacos. Yum! Salt & pepper on a milder tasting fish, soft tortilla shells – heated, shredded lettuce or cabbage, avocado or guacamole, Greek yogurt, and salsa, lime, cilantro and/or green onions.

For the adventurous here is one of my favourite fish recipes. I’ve got one out of two of my kids eating this one. Email me and let me know how it goes in your family!  

Poached Salmon in Coconut

  • 1 small red onion
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 tsp oil
  • 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 4 skinless, boneless salmon fillets
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 large lime
  • ¼ cup coriander


Cooking Instructions

  1. Sauté onion, garlic & ginger in a deep frying pan.
  2. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low and add salmon.
  4. Sprinkle with salt, cover and cook, turning salmon half way.
  5. Cook until salmon flakes easily with a fork (approximately 8 – 12 min.).
  6. Serve salmon with coconut sauce, add lime and coriander.

I hope this help kids get "all-aboard" with fish and fresh, healthy seafood in general. Please email me and let me know if my tips have helped you during family meal time!

Christine Hanlan
Christine is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, and is ORC's Health & Wellness Ambassador.