Baby Food Recipes

I think it is safe to say that, as parents, we understand how important a healthy diet is and one of the easiest ways to ensure your babies are given the right start is by making your own baby food.

I love being able to say that my children have never had baby food from a jar! Now it may sound like a lot to take on but it is ridiculously simple! I started making baby food before I could make a pot roast (although my cooking skills have greatly improved since then). I thought it would be interesting to share some baby food recipes each week and perhaps get some tips and recipes back!

A few things to note....each baby is different and you should rely on your baby's' signals and your doctors advice on when to introduce solid foods. Additionally, in the beginning you want to introduce single ingredient purees to test for any possible allergies.

That being said, this is what you need:

a food processor or hand blender
ice cube trays (what I use) or freezer containers
steamer (helpful but not necessary, I just use an inexpensive collapsible one)
Large Freezer Ziplock Bags

After making the puree, simply scoop it into the ice cube trays and allow to cool. Write the name of the recipe and the date on the large Ziploc bag and put the tray inside. Once frozen, pop out the "baby food cubes" and you have perfect baby-sized portions to defrost as needed!

4-6 months -Butternut Squash

*all 3 of my boys loved this one

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees

Cut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and wrap each half in foil

Bake for 1 and 1/2 hours or until tender

Scoop out the "meat" and blend with a little water to your preferred consistency

hint: this recipe mixes great with homemade applesauce

6-12 months-Peach, Apple & Strawberry Puree

*yummy, try a taste...another benefit to making it yourself!

1 apple (peeled, cored and chopped)

1 ripe peach (peeled, pitted and chopped)

3 large strawberries (note, some kids have allergies to strawberry so be sure to watch closely after first introduction)

Steam the apple for about 6 minutes or until tender. Add the peach and strawberries to the steamer for about 3 more minutes. Blend to a smooth puree.