Chocolate porridge

It’s world chocolate day so it would be rude not to post a choc recipe!

Although this features porridge, it could be cocoa powder added to any cereal to create a chocolate version. It works better if the powder can be well incorporated though.

For some fussy eaters a chocolate version of food is more enticing, and any time a child has more interest or is happier to contemplate a food, it’s a win.

Also, if we can make food more exciting or fun, why not? And cocoa powder has no sugar and contains important nutrients like zinc.

Recipe
½ cup oats (I used wholegrain but blitzed them to flour to give a smooth texture. Using quick cook oats would give a similar texture. Or use rolled oats if that’s what porridge is usually like for your child).
¾ – 1 cup of milk (depending on how you like the consistency)
½ egg (optional). Good nutrient boost and doesn’t change the taste but does make it weirdly more creamy
½ tsp honey (or other sweetener. We are low sugar so add more to taste). Also, can substitute a ripe banana for sweetness, if preferred.
Sprinkle of salt
1 tsp cocoa (I used the dark choc option)

Method
In a saucepan cook oats, cocoa and salt in milk plus mashed banana (if using banana) on a medium low heat, stirring, until mixture thickens.
Make sure the heat is low, add egg and honey (if using honey) stir until well mixed.
Serve.

Judith, MA Cantab, is an AOTA accredited picky eating advisor and internationally certified nutritional therapist. She works with 100+ families every year resolving fussy eating and returning pleasure and joy to the meal table.
She is also mum to two boys and the author of Creating Confident Eaters and Winner Winner I Eat Dinner. Her dream is that every child is able to approach food from a place of safety and joy, not fear.
Learn more about Judith here: https://theconfidenteater.com/about/