As the chill of winter settles in, there’s no better time to gather around the kitchen and create delicious, heartwarming meals for the whole family. If you are looking for ideas, French Nanny London got you covered!
1. Chicken and Vegetable Pot Pie
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt, pepper, and herbs (such as thyme) to taste
- Puff pastry sheets
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in butter until softened. Add carrots and cook for a few minutes.
- Stir in flour and gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring until thickened.
- Add chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and herbs. Simmer until vegetables are tender.
- Pour the mixture into individual ramekins or a baking dish. Cover with puff pastry and bake until golden brown.
2. Cheesy Baked Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Mix cooked pasta with marinara sauce, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture in the baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Layer the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
3. French Toast Sticks
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bread, cut into strips
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Butter for cooking
- Maple syrup for dipping
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Dip bread strips into the egg mixture, ensuring they are coated.
- Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Cook the bread strips until golden brown on each side.
- Serve with maple syrup for a cozy winter breakfast or snack.
4. Hot Chocolate with a Twist
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream and mini marshmallows for topping
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until warm (but not boiling).
- Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined and smooth.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and mini marshmallows for a comforting winter treat.
These kid-friendly recipes, infused with a touch of French cuisine, are perfect for warming up your little ones on chilly winter days. Whether you are a nanny or a parent, those delicious dishes promise to bring joy and comfort to your family’s table during the colder months in London. Bon appétit!