We all know kids love to dip, and dunk and wave food around, and what better way to do that than put food on a stick? I wanted to try it, so started with a favourite of Harry’s – lamb. He loved chewing it off the stick, the whole thing was a novelty, and it would have been really convenient when out and about. I will definitely be trying this again. If for no other reason than I have about 250 paddle pop sticks that I need to use up.

If you have a fussy eater, I recommend giving this a go. The stick is a good distraction for all the vegetables you can hide in the lamb mix. Or, if you are having a particularly trying evening, try shifting the focus, bring out the sticks and skewer the food on. The kids will love it.

Tip: food on a stick is the perfect party food. Why not make lamb sticks and serve in a cup with some dip. Simple, filling and delicious.

Nutrition Note: Lamb, a red meat, is high in iron and zinc, important for growth and development in young children.

Ingredients

• 500g lamb mince
• 1 egg
• 1 small brown onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (optional)
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 handful of spinach, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil to fry
• ½ cup natural yoghurt (to serve)
• Pita bread (to serve)

Method

Step 1

Combine lamb, egg, onion, mushrooms, cinnamon, parsley and spinach in a bowl. Use your hands to mix well. -

Step 2

Take large tbsp sized handfuls of mixture and shape around a paddle pop stick. Flatten slightly. -

Step 3

Heat oil in a large frypan over medium. Cook for a few minuted either side until the meat is cooked through. -

Step 4

Serve in cups with yoghurt or tzatziki dip. Or, you can skip the paddle pop step and wrap the lamb in pita bread. -