There was so much energy and excitement at Bennetts End and Chaulden Adventure Playgrounds during another fun cooking session with Monir Ali, hosted by the ADDA Club. The kids jumped right into hands-on cooking, learning how to whip up Paprika Lamb Kebabs with cooling Raita, and for dessert, a simple but delicious Berry Mess with Chocolate.
But this wasn’t just about making tasty food—it was part of a bigger mission: helping young people develop basic cooking skills and spreading the word about healthier eating habits to tackle type 2 diabetes.
Making Cooking Fun and Interactive
These sessions are all about showing how cooking can be fun, approachable, and something everyone can enjoy. Hosting them at vibrant adventure playgrounds added to the lively atmosphere, and the kids were keen to dive in and try something new.
The Paprika Lamb Kebabs were a hit, giving the kids a chance to learn how to handle and season meat while also understanding the benefits of lean protein. Spices like paprika were a big talking point, especially when the kids discovered they could add tons of flavor without needing extra salt. And the Raita? It was a quick and tasty lesson in how to make a healthy yogurt dip with cucumber and mint—simple, refreshing, and packed with nutrients like calcium and probiotics.
Then came dessert! The Berry Mess with Chocolate showed that desserts can be indulgent and still healthy. Fresh berries brought natural sweetness and a burst of color, while dark chocolate added a rich, grown-up twist.
Building Confidence and Sparking Curiosity
It was fantastic to see so many kids getting involved—both boys and girls. They asked loads of questions about the ingredients and techniques, and Monir’s friendly, approachable teaching style made it easy for them to try things out. For many, it was their first experience cooking, and their confidence visibly grew as they mastered flipping kebabs and mixing dips.
One standout moment was when a young girl, initially hesitant to try yoghurt, gave it a go while making the Berry Mess. “I don’t like yoghurt,” she had declared—but after a taste, she changed her mind and discovered a new favuorite! Moments like these highlight the power of trying new things in a supportive environment.
Spreading the Word About Healthy Eating
Of course, the sessions weren’t just about cooking—they also carried an important message: eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring, expensive, or complicated. With rising rates of childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes, these sessions aim to inspire kids (and their families) to make better food choices in a fun and approachable way.
By getting the kids involved in preparing meals from scratch, they learned to appreciate fresh, wholesome ingredients and the effort behind balanced dishes. Monir kept it simple, showing them how small swaps—like using yoghurt dips instead of sugary sauces or adding fresh fruit to desserts—can make a big difference over time.
Why These Skills Matter
Learning to cook is about so much more than just making food. It’s a life skill that can empower young people to cook for themselves, eat healthier, and even inspire others around them.
These sessions also sparked teamwork and creativity, as the kids worked together to prep their dishes, share flavour ideas, and proudly present their finished plates. The smiles on their faces when they tasted what they made? That’s what it’s all about.
One Meal at a Time
This cooking session with Monir Ali and the ADDA Club wasn’t just a fun day out—it was an investment in the kids’ future. By teaching them practical skills and showing how delicious healthy eating can be, we’re helping to build healthier habits that can last a lifetime.
Whether it’s flipping kebabs or drizzling chocolate over a dessert, every little step counts. Here’s to many more sessions like this one and a brighter, healthier future for everyone involved!
What the Kids Had to Say
The young participants had nothing but great things to say about the session:
- “That cooking lesson was slay!”
- “It was fantastic.”
- “It was great, no boring parts!”
- “I love cooking.”
- “This is so much fun.”
- “I felt very professional in the apron.”
- “Loved it—it was really easy to do.”
- “I could do that at home.”
- “I want to make this for my brother and mum.”
When asked what they’d like to cook next, the kids suggested kebabs (again!), chicken nuggets, and pizza. Monir shared an idea for a healthy pizza cooked in a foil box, which the kids were excited to try next time.
If you’d like more information about the cookery sessions or want to organise one for your school, club, or organisation, get in touch with Monir Ali through our contact form here.