With the cold and rain of winter, some children find it difficult being cooped up inside all day – who knew that there was only so many video games they can play before they get stir-crazy!

Winter is a great time for getting the kids into comfort food that is hearty and healthy.

Here are some meal ideas to warm up your winter.

Mexican 

If flinging jalapenos around the kitchen sounds like fun then a fiesta of Mexican delights is the way to go this winter.

Mexican food is great because it gets everyone involved in the preparation, but unless you have older children who can safely use the stove, an adult will need to be around to get things started.

Pan fry onion and garlic in olive oil, then add minced beef and kidney beans. Flavour with cumin, salt and pepper. A dash of tabasco or chipotle sauce adds extra spice and depth of flavour for the grown-ups’ plates. Lay out bowls with grated cheese, shredded lettuce and tomatoes, and offer the kids a choice of taco shells, corn chips or soft tortillas for a DIY dinner they’ll love.

Prefer nachos to tacos? Check out our guide to making perfect nachos here.

Meatballs

If you’re up for a bit of imperfection in shape and size, hands-on messiness can be just the ticket!

Hand mixing and rolling meatballs and rissoles keep small hands busy, as does homemade falafel.

Served in a pita pocket with hummus and salad, falafel is ideal for anyone keen on “Meat-free Mondays”.

Soup – a winter classic

Healthy and nutritious soup is a winter staple in most Australian homes. Home-made chicken soup, pumpkin, pea and ham, and tomato are all popular choices. Mix it up by looking to other countries for inspiration:

• Miso with ramen noodles
• Moroccan lamb
• Greek lemon chicken

For some extra good slurping, add some croutons – the kids will love adding these “floaters”!

• Tip: when you’re short on time, dissolve a stock cube in hot water and add tortellini or noodles for a quick broth soup.

Fish

Some children turn up their noses at fish. But there are some recipes that are sure to change their minds.

Coat fillets of white fish, such as ling, in flour and fry in a shallow pan with butter and a good squeeze of orange juice for natural sweetness. Alternatively, marinate flathead tails in a quarter cup of sweet soy sauce, the juice of one lime and minced garlic for an hour or two, then grill and serve with coconut rice and veggies.

If all else fails…

Pasta is bound to please even the fussiest little people. Lasagne, minestrone soup or a simple macaroni and cheese are always winners.

Tip: grating parmesan is a good activity for little fingers while waiting for pasta to cook.