There’s something infinitely lovely about a simple sandwich – they’ve been a staple from when we were kids and still now as adults and for our kids too. And we’re not talking about the fancy shmancy creations of the avocado and pesto variety, whilst of course there is a place for these, in our house, simple tastes rule.
A favourite for us is peanut butter– it’s one of the most versatile spreads around. It goes with everything. Of course the simple peanut butter sandwich is number 1, but it’s also great with crackers, with fruit, in smoothies as a pancake topping and in cooking and baking.
Panda Peanut Butter is an Irish cupboard staple which has been enjoyed by families for generations. Panda Peanut Butters are an American style peanut butter available in two textures, Smooth or Crunchy – there’s an equal divide in our house on which is the preferred texture, but it’s safe to say they are both always included the weekly shop.
Our second favourite cupboard staple with our family is jam – my dad always had bread and jam, it was literally his go-to snack, and so too it became a regular snack for my kids. Last year we even grew our own strawberries and made jam ourselves, which was a wonderful way to show the kids “from garden to plate” in real time. But obviously that’s very much a summer pursuit, for year round supplies, we use Chivers Jam. Chivers has been part of the Irish family for as long as we can remember. It started off in Dublin in 1932 and has been loved through generations.
Today’s range from Chivers continues to delight Irish families including their range of jams, and jelly (I particularly enjoy their 9 cal Jelly Pot – the perfect guilt- free snack for a mum on the go).
I bake every weekend with the kids – it’s such a brilliant way for them to learn, it’s what my mum did with me, and Chivers jam is a wonderful ingredient for simple fuss free recipes. In fact, with Chivers Jam and Panda Peanut butters, you can create the most yummy treats for all the family.
And aside from these spreads being huge favourites at home - they both regularly feature in the kids’ lunch boxes. If you’re looking for ideas – check out our lunch box guide here.
And if you’re sitting down to a Sunday brunch why not get the whole family involved and create a delicious pancake board that has a little something for everyone?
