How to prep quick soups for post-cold recovery in children?

Question

How do you prep quick soups for post-cold recovery in children? Get recipes for comforting and nutritious soups that are easy to make.

Answer 1

Prepare quick soups for children recovering from a cold by focusing on nutrient-rich broths, easily digestible ingredients like cooked chicken or soft vegetables, and mild seasonings. Pre-chop vegetables and portion ingredients for easy assembly when needed.

Detailed Explanation:

When a child is recovering from a cold, their appetite might be reduced, and their digestive system might be sensitive. Soups are an excellent way to provide hydration and essential nutrients in an easily digestible form. Here's how to prep quick soups:

1. Choose a Nutrient-Rich Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth as a base. Bone broth is also a great option for its added nutrients and potential immune-boosting properties.
2. Select Easily Digestible Ingredients: Focus on ingredients that are gentle on the stomach. Good choices include:
   • Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
   • Soft vegetables like carrots, celery, zucchini, and potatoes (peeled and diced)
   • Rice or noodles (small shapes are easier to eat)
   • Ginger (a small amount for its anti-inflammatory properties)
3. Prepare Ingredients in Advance: Wash, peel, and chop vegetables into small, manageable pieces. Cook chicken and shred or dice it. Store these prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can also portion them into individual bags or containers for even faster soup assembly.
4. Season Mildly: Avoid strong spices that might irritate a child's throat or stomach. Use mild herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill. A pinch of salt and pepper is usually sufficient.
5. Consider Pureeing: For very young children or those with sore throats, consider pureeing the soup after cooking to make it easier to swallow.
6. Freezing for Later: Soups freeze exceptionally well. Prepare a large batch and freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. This allows you to have a ready-to-go meal whenever your child needs it.

Pro Tip:

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the soup just before serving. Lemon juice provides vitamin C and can help soothe a sore throat. However, be mindful of the acidity if your child has an upset stomach.