This blog by Toddler Recipes Australia provides handy tips and hacks on how to make your toddler’s meals last longer, without compromising on flavour or nutrition. From suggestions for simple ingredient swaps to tips on creating super satisfying meals, this blog has plenty of useful advice on making your kitchen supplies go further. Make sure your toddler’s meals are still delicious and nutritious with these easy hacks to make toddler food stretch.

Easy Hacks to Make Toddler Food Stretch with James, a Father of One and Cybersecurity Specialist from Australia

As a parent of a toddler, you don’t need us to tell you how expensive it can be to make sure they’re well-fed. We know that every dollar counts and that every meal counts just as much!

To help you get the most out of your hard-earned money, here are some easy hacks to make your toddler’s food stretch further, without compromising the flavor.

Use Applesauce to Add Moisture

If you have a picky eater who won’t devour the pasta your cooked for them, fear not! Use a bit of applesauce to moisten the meal, making it easier for your toddler to swallow. Applesauce also helps to extend a meal, adding to its volume in addition to its moisture. You can also use mashed bananas in the same manner.

Make a Baseline for Meal Variations

If you don’t want to cook complicated meals every night of the week, consider making a “baseline.” This can be as simple as boiling a piece of boneless chicken breast and steaming some vegetables or roasting potatoes, carrots, and celery. Then, you can add in different sauces and herbs to provide variation while still using the same ingredients.

Freeze Meals Ahead of Time

A great way to make your toddler’s food stretch further is to make large batches of their favourite meals and freeze them. This way you can fix up a decent size meal and have enough left over to freeze. This will save you time during busy weeks and help you save money.

Take Advantage of Leftovers

Leftovers can become a new meal when added to something else. For instance, take last night’s leftovers, add an egg and some herbs, and you will have a tasty fritatta! You can also use leftovers to make a quick chilli or soup. The possibilities are endless and will help you get the most out of your meals.

Use Your Slow Cooker

Cooking with a slow cooker is a great way to make your toddler’s food stretch further. You can make large batches of soup or stew that will last several days. Plus, it’s a great way to cook healthy meals with lots of vegetables!

Get Creative with Your Toddler’s Meals

These days, your toddler’s meals don’t have to be boring. Get creative and add different sauces, spices, and herbs to the meals you make to give them added flavor. Try using julienned vegetables instead of cubed ones and add fun shapes to their meals to make them more fun and appealing.

By using some of these easy hacks, you can make your toddler’s food stretch further while still delivering delicious, healthy meals. Not only will your wallet thank you, but so will your picky eater!

Now that you have some tips and tricks, why not head over to Toddler Recipes Australia and find some recipes to try? Get inspired with the amazing recipes and ideas and start stretching those meals out!