Sure, you can talk all about those fancy restaurants and exquisite food you’ve had, but let’s be real—nothing hits the spot like slurping down a warm bowl of utan bisaya. It’s like a big hug from home—something that wraps you in comfort and nostalgia with every spoonful.
Traditionally prepared with malunggay, squash, eggplant, gabi, okra, alugbati, and sikwa, this vegetable soup has been a beloved staple for generations among the people of Cebu. It’s not just healthy—it’s also super affordable and easy to whip up with common ingredients, making it a go-to for lots of families.
Here’s How You Can Encourage Your Kids to Eat Utan Bisaya
Unfortunately, in today’s world of smartphones and quick food deliveries, kids often eat unhealthy stuff that’s full of calories, fats, sugar, and preservatives. They see ads for these foods online, and they taste good, too. That’s why it’s becoming tough for parents to get them to eat healthier when there are so many tempting but not-so-good-for-you options around.
But should we give in? Definitely not! As parents, we need to be strong role models. We should choose healthier foods ourselves. Here are some tips to help your picky eater try utan bisaya.
Before you start nudging your kids to try utan bisaya, give it a try yourself. Know that children learn best by watching their parents and often emulate the behaviors they see. If they see you enjoying the soup, it creates a positive association and curiosity around the dish, probably making them more willing to give it a taste too.
Moreover, eating together brings everyone closer and makes trying new foods fun and less scary. So, by giving utan bisaya a chance yourself, you’re not just encouraging healthy eating—you’re also making mealtime a happy, bonding experience for your family.
Get kids involved in cooking utan bisaya to make the kitchen a joyful place. It’s awesome for a few reasons. They learn lifelong skills like chopping and washing. When they help cook, they’re more eager to eat. It also boosts their confidence to see their efforts enjoyed by the family. Cooking together is a fun way to bond with your kids. Making utan bisaya isn’t just about dinner; it’s about creating memories and skills that’ll stick with them.
Introducing kids to vegetables early on is crucial for their health. Games like Culinary School’s Veggie Friends and Can I Eat can make veggies more familiar and appealing to children. These games teach them about the importance of veggies for growth and health, helping them develop a liking for them. Fun nutrition lessons encourage them to try new foods, setting the stage for lifelong healthy eating habits.
Growing your own vegetables can be a game-changer for getting kids to eat more veggies. When they see the whole process, from planting the seeds to harvesting the crops, they feel a sense of ownership and excitement. Plus, they get to learn where their food comes from and develop a deeper appreciation for it. It’s a hands-on way to teach them about healthy eating and the importance of fresh, nutritious foods. And the best part? They’re more likely to try the veggies they’ve grown themselves, making mealtime a whole lot easier for parents.
It’s important to talk with your kids about why eating veggies is so great for them. Keep it simple by explaining how veggies help them grow strong, see better, and have energy for all their adventures. Use examples from their day-to-day lives to make it easy for them to grasp.
But sometimes, all that talk can feel a bit preachy. That’s where games like Food Run and Feed the Grandma and Grandpa can save the day! It’s a fun way for kids to learn about the effects of eating healthy versus not-so-healthy foods. Turning nutrition into a game keeps them engaged and excited about making smart choices.Yes, it can be a challenge to get your kids excited about eating veggies, like utan bisaya. But remember, you’ve got the spirit of a descendant of Lapu-lapu within you—perseverance runs in your veins! By making healthy eating fun with games and activities, you’re turning it into an adventure, not a chore. Every effort you make to encourage their love for vegetables is a step towards a happier, healthier family. Keep trying new ideas and celebrating every small win along the way!