Latest food conquered: Asparagus

In a previous post, I shared our broccoli success... and this week asparagus simply reinforced my beliefs about eating habits/preferences in children. When it's in-season, John and I eat a lot of asparagus. Grilled, sauteed, drizzled with balsamic vinegar, tossed into pasta - it makes regular appearances. Abby and Elise have been present for those appearances time and time again and, without pressure, have been required to take at least one bite. Before this week, the bite was had and, when asked if they'd like another, "no thank you" was quickly answered. 

At dinner on Monday night, they both cleaned their plates - I made a simple chicken and asparagus stir-fry and served it over brown rice. Each green piece disappeared and asparagus-filled bellies were excused from the table. 

My belief: "picky eaters" are not born; they are created. Children have taste preferences and favorite foods. But is a child's refusal to eat certain foods a true expression of dislike? Or is it a powerful tool allows them, at their next meal, to avoid encountering that dreaded asparagus again?

Chicken and Asparagus with Brown Rice

• Local, free range chicken breasts
• Organic asparagus
• Organic garlic
• Organic short-grain brown rice
• Balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper
• Cook brown rice: 1 C. uncooked rice, 2 C water, 1 T organic unsalted butter; boil water/butter; add rice; simmer until done (approx. 30 minutes)
• Slice chicken into 1-2 inch pieces; cook over medium heat until almost done
• Salt and pepper the chicken
• Add asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces, and drizzle with olive oil
• Saute for a few minutes; add 2-3 pressed garlic cloves
• Drizzle with balsamic vinegar
• Serve over brown rice

It's too bad that there isn't any love between them...