Kids & Company Blog

Grain Game

There are over 100 different kinds of grains out there! Grain has been one of the largest sources of food and farming for generations. A variety of whole grains in the diet has shown to decrease cardiovascular disease and aid in digestive health.  Whole grains are packed with fibre, B vitamins, folic acid and minerals to help your little ones grow! At Kids and Company we serve a variety of grains on every menu including: quinoa, couscous, rice, barley, whole wheat breads and more!

Most people know that whole grains are the healthy choice, but what is the difference between whole grains and refined grains? Whole grains or foods made from them contain all the essential parts and naturally-occurring nutrients of the entire grain seed in their original state.  Refined grains have had the germ and bran removed from them, leaving only the endospore. The bran and germ are actually the most nutritious parts of the grain! They are rich with B vitamins and complex carbohydrates. At the Kidco Kitchen we use 100% whole wheat flour in all of our baking and serve up delicious whole wheat pastas in our yummy homemade Mac & Cheese, Penne Pasta Bolognaise and more! .  When shopping look for products that are labeled “wholegrain”, not “multigrain” or other variations.

Try upping your grain game and stepping outside the box! Try a new grain at your next meal such as amaranth. Amaranth is an ancient grain eaten for centuries in Central and South America. It can be cooked and eaten as a side dish or used to make casseroles, baked goods, crackers, pancakes, and pasta. Use it as you would use rice in recipes. To cook simply combine seeds with two and a half cups water in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for up to 20 minutes, until grains are fluffy and water is absorbed. For a porridge-like consistency, use slightly more water (three cups for one cup of grain) and cook a little longer!

 

Cheers,

Chef Lisa Ruscica

Chief Food Ambassador

Posted on: Thursday January 29th, 2015

Posted by: Lisa Ruscica