Healthy Eating
By Justin J. Miller

In the past several years, I have represented and promoted numerous and reputable companies, such as Heinz, Ragu, Hidden Valley Ranch and Med-Fast Pharmacy just to name a few. Regardless of who they were, the message I stressed has always led back to the importance of eating healthy. After working with several companies and creating healthy recipes, I developed a theory that "If kids make their own food, maybe they will eat it too." I encouraged kids to get into the kitchen with adequate adult supervision, and try to create meals for themselves instead of reaching for the nearest bag of potato chips. I realize they may be young, however, kids are very particular, and they know what they like. I have learned from experience that with correct guidance and encouragement, children can have a fantastic time in the kitchen and bond with their parents.

Introducing children to the kitchen at a young age provides a hands on experience to science, math and art. The process of baking combines these three subjects. Ingredients have to be measured exactly, so the chemical interaction can create the cake or dish you desire, and when serving the dish, you want to make it look presentable, or ice the cake like a professional. I am a huge believer in education, and after explaining this process to people, I have coined the phrase "Cooking is essential to the education of children."

As children begin to learn the cooking process, and learn what foods compliment each other, comes the education of the preparation of healthy meals. I am not saying to never eat pretzels or cookies again, the point I attempt to stress is "Everything in moderation is OK." Obesity is the number one killer in America, and diabetes is the number seven. These 2 conditions go hand-in-hand with each other, and I can not emphasize enough, the importance of eating healthy. Be sure to eat well, exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Spicy Hot Chicken Strips

Ingredients:
6 chicken breasts, boneless/skinless
3 tbs paprika
2 tsp red pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Method:
Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise into 4 long strips.
In a medium sized mixing bowl, combine paprika, red pepper, cumin, cayenne, allspice, salt and garlic powder.
Rub chicken strips and toss with the spice mixture, evenly coating each strip. NOTE: When working with the seasoning's Do NOT rub your eyes with your fingers until after washing hands.
Preheat broiler and arrange oven rack 6 to 7 inches from heat.
Lightly coat a broiler pan with cooking spray, or use a foil-lined baking sheet.
Place chicken strips on prepared pan in a single layer.
Broil, turning strips once after 4 or 5-minutes.
Cook for another 3-4 minutes or until lightly browned and no longer pink in the center.
Garnish with lemon wedges and serve with ranch dip.
Serves 4

Justin J. Miller, "The World's Youngest Chef"®, can be reached at www.myspace.com/chefjustinmiller

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