Cooking for our birds is a creative way to show our love for them. It also gives us greater control of what ingredients are included in their treat foods. This simple recipe only takes a few minutes to prepare and makes 36 individual servings. Store in the freezer for a quick and ready addition to your bird’s food dish. Simply thaw before giving it to your bird.

Vegetables
Birds can be picky. Experts say that parrots have the intellect of a toddler; similar to toddlers, parrots don’t always want to eat their vegetables. Blending vegetables and including them in other foods your bird does like is a tricky but effective way to include vegetables in your bird’s diet. Any type of vegetable or fruit can be used in this versatile recipe. Some good options include mixed vegetables, greens, apple, banana, carrot, zucchini and peas.

Flax
Flax is an excellent source of omega-3 fats and protein. It also serves well as a binder in this recipe. You can leave some of the flax seeds whole to allow your bird to pick them out of the bread. To make your own flax meal, process whole flax seeds in a clean coffee grinder until no whole seeds are left. Measure the flax for your recipe after it has been ground. Store any leftover flax meal in the freezer to prevent it from going rancid.

Egg
Egg is a good source of protein for your bird. However, too much egg can evoke a hormonal response. If your bird starts displaying heightened hormonal behavior, eliminate eggs from its diet. Instead, substitute applesauce for the eggs in this recipe.

Veggie Flax Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

1 c flax seed meal
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
2 eggs, beaten
½ c water
1 c frozen vegetables, thawed


Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Combine flax meal and baking powder in a medium bowl.
3. Place eggs, water and vegetables in a blender and blend until only small chunks of vegetables remain.
4. Mix the wet ingredients into your dry ingredients. Stir until thoroughly combined.
5. Pour batter into an oiled 8 x 8 pan.
6. Bake 30 minutes.
7. Cool completely.
8. Cut into one-inch squares.
9. Freeze separated on a flat tray.
10. Store frozen cubes in a freezer bag.