Is Your Baby Ready for Solid Foods?

Learn About Baby's Signs of Readiness for Solid Foods There are many signs that might lead you to believe that your little one is ready to begin eating solid foods. But how exactly do you know if your baby really is ready for solid foods? Has your baby doubled her birth weight? Does your baby have good head control? Your baby may be 3 months old or 4 months old when you start to feel she may need "something more" than formula or breast milk. Maybe she is beginning to awaken more often at night or eat more often than "usual" and you wonder if introducing solid foods may be what she needs. The best advice when considering starting solid foods for your baby is to "Watch the Baby - Not the Calendar" This is true for both breastfed and formula fed infants. Follow your baby's hunger cues and you'll never go wrong.

A Growth Spurt May be Confused with a Readiness for Solid Foods Please keep in mind that a growth spurt will occur between 3-4 months of age. Your baby may begin to wake more frequently at night for a feeding and/or may begin to eat non-stop (cluster feed) as she once did as a newborn. This growth spurt often accounts for the increased hunger in your baby and it should not be taken as a sign that your baby needs solid foods added to her diet. You may try offering your baby more frequent nursing sessions and/or bottle feedings instead of solids; you will find that within a week or two, your baby is oftentimes over the growth spurt and back to feeding "as usual". Here are a few "signs" that may indicate your baby is ready for Solid Foods: Loss of tongue-thrust reflex - This allows baby to drink and swallow liquids with ease; with the tongue-thrust reflex still present, baby may simply drink in liquid purees or push the food back out. According to Dr. Jim Sears, in the first four months the tongue thrust reflex protects the infant against choking. When any unusual substance is placed on the tongue, it automatically protrudes outward rather than back. Between four and six months this reflex gradually diminishes, and that glob of cereal actually may have a chance of making it from the tongue to the tummy! Ability to let you know she is full from a "meal" with signs such as turning away from the bottle or breast. This is important so that baby is able to self-regulate the amount of food being eaten. This helps stop baby from accidentally overeating as parents may continue to feed baby thinking that she is still hungry. Ability to sit up and hold head up unassisted Interest in your food (I tend to disagree with this one as when a baby reaches the age of 4-6 months, he is interested in putting everything in his mouth.) Doubling of birth weight Frequently waking in the middle of the night when a solid sleeping pattern had been established. This may not be the best indicator that your baby is ready for solids. Please keep in mind that a growth spurt will occur

between 3-4 months of age, 6-7 months of age and also 9-10 months of age. Your baby may also be waking due to an illness or teething. Won't My Baby Sleep Through the Night If We Start Solids? Some parents believe that if they start solids "early" then their infants will sleep through the night sooner. As your baby grows, his sleeping patterns as well as eating patterns change continually. Around the time a few parents begin to offer solids early is just about the time that an infant may be sleeping for longer periods at a time. This is a natural progression as an infant ages and it oftentimes coincides with the addition of early solids. This coincidence perpetuates the dangerous myth that early offerings of solid foods will help an infant sleep "through the night". To further this explanation, let us recall that between 6-8 months old, baby is often back to waking at night for a feeding. By this time baby should be eating solids and it appears that those solids are no longer helping baby sleep through the night. In reality, baby is hitting another growth spurt and may wake again during the night for more feedings regardless of eating solids. This really is "normal" and your baby may wake again during the night for more feedings regardless of eating solids. I know many babies who began to eat solids "Early" and people are telling me to start my baby early should I? Many parents say that their own pediatricians or their friends' pediatricians have said that it's fine to start solids (typically cereal) at 4 months of age. It is still common for pediatricians to just say "start solid foods when your baby is 4 months old" because this has been the norm for many years. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) acknowledges that there are no "strict" age guidelines on introducing solid foods to your baby. However, "The AAP Section on Breastfeeding, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Academy of Family Physicians, Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, World Health Organization, United Nations Children's Fund, and many other health organizations recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life.2,127130 Exclusive breastfeeding is defined as an infant's consumption of human milk with no supplementation of any type (no water, no juice, no nonhuman milk, and no foods) except for vitamins, minerals, and medications.131 Exclusive breastfeeding has been shown to provide improved protection against many diseases and to increase the likelihood of continued breastfeeding for at least the first year of life. 2005 http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/pediatrics;115/2/496 This ensures optimal nutritional exposure and may stave off food allergies amongst other issues. Further studies have shown that an infant's gastrointestinal tract has not or may not have matured enough to properly digest/utilize solid foods until around 6-8 months old. There is a "conflict" between the AAP Breastfeeding et al and the Committee on Nutrition as regards starting solids. The Committee on Nutrition says babies may be started on solid foods "between 4 and 6 months" of age. The Committee does not recommend 4 months of age as the absolute starting age however. "At approximately four-to-six months, you can begin adding solid foods. "Most babies are not ready for solids before this time, as they have not lost their tongue-thrust reflex at that age," Dr. Greer says. Dr. Greer is with the Committee on Nutrition. Studies show that babies are highly individual in developing a readiness for solid foods. One baby might seem to be ready for solids at 4 months, while another shows no signs of readiness until around 6 or 7 months. Just because your friend's baby may have began eating solid foods at 3 or 4 months of age does not mean that your baby should.

Don't be pushed into starting solids and don't feel like you are a "bad Mommy" if you feel your baby is ready prior to 6 months of age. **Please keep in mind that "outward" signs of being ready for solids do not mean that your baby's inner digestive system is mature and ready. You should thoroughly discuss starting your baby on solid foods with your baby's pediatrician. If your pediatrician insists that you start your 4 month old infant on solids and you don't feel baby is ready, ask the pediatriician to explain the benefits of starting solids early. And remember, you never HAVE to begin introducing complementary foods simply because your pediatrician has suggested that you do so; unless there is some medical need. Only when you have thoroughly discussed the pros and cons of introducing solid foods with your pediatrician will you be able to have a better grasp of just when you should begin offering baby solid foods. My Parent's Insist That My Baby Needs "Real Food" Some parents may be tempted to give in to relatives, grandmothers and sometimes even their own mothers, who say "Give that baby some real food, she's starving." or "Nursing that baby isn't enough, he needs some real food". Remember that "real food" is breast milk and/or formula and these contain all the important nutrients that an infant needs to develop properly. Breast milk in particular, and/or formula, will be enough to sustain your baby's nutritional needs for up to age 1 year old. In fact, introducing solids too early may displace the important nutrition your baby needs to receive from breast milk and/or formula.

Introducing Solid Foods to Your Baby - Tips Solid Food Charts For Babies and Other Useful Information about Starting Solids Introducing solid foods to your baby is a really big milestone. This milestone is a lot of fun and a lot of worry as well. One of the most important things to keep in mind is that your baby has so many years of food experiences ahead that there is no need to rush things! Remember, you are taking the first steps to helping your little one develop healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime. Here you will find pages of useful information and solid food charts for you to review and get a sense of what your baby may be eating at a certain age or stage. This information will help ease your mind as you are introducing solid foods and will also ease the transition to solid foods for your baby. Current Recommendations for Introducing Solid Foods Current recommendations indicate that breast milk or formula should be babys main source of nutrition until at least 6 months of age. While many pediatricians recommend starting solid foods sometime between 4 and six months of age, the earlier introduction of solid foods may have certain risk factors; consult your pediatrician. For example, the "Introduction of complementary feedings [solid foods] before 6 months of age generally does not increase total caloric intake or rate of growth and only substitutes foods that lack needed nutrients and the protective components of human milk (and formula). AAP Policy Note - 194" Is Your Baby Ready for Solid Food? How do you know if your baby is ready for solid foods? There are many signs to look for that will indicate that your little one may be ready to begin the journey into solid foods. Your baby may be 3 months old or 4 months old when you start to feel she may need "something more" than formula or breast milk. Maybe she is beginning to awaken more often at night or eat more often than "usual" and you wonder if introducing solid foods may be what she needs.Please keep in mind that a growth spurt will occur between 3-4 months of age. Your baby may begin to wake more frequently at night for a feeding and/or may being to eat nonstop (cluster feed) as she once did as a newborn. Read more at Is Your Baby Ready for Solid Foods?

Beginning Solid Foods When you find that your baby is ready for solid foods, consider skipping the boxed cereal and starting out with avocado, sweet potato, banana or pear! You should give your baby one new food at a time, and wait a a minimal of 2 to 3 days before starting another. Many parents follow the "4 day wait rule" and choose to wait 4 days between introducing new foods. After each new food, watch for any allergic reactions such as diarrhea, rash, or vomiting. If any of these occur, stop using the new food and consult with your childs doctor. Within a few months of starting solid foods, according to the AAP, you should offer your baby a variety of foods each day that may include the following: Breast milk and/or formula Meats Cereal

Vegetables Fruits Eggs and fish Introducing Allergenic Foods to Babies and Food Allergies Changes to how to introduce allergenic foods to your baby are slowly taking place. "Many pediatricians recommend against giving eggs and fish in the first year of life because of allergic reactions, but there is no evidence that introducing these nutrient-dense foods after 4 to 6 months of age determines whether your baby will be allergic to them." view report Visit the Allergies & Baby Food page to learn more about these changes as well as about allergenic foods. Remember, the World Health Organisation, the American Academy of Pediatrics, Health Canada, Health Insite Australia and the Department of Public Health (U.K.) as well as the CDC all recommend that babies receive nothing but breast milk and/or formula for the first 6 months of age. What does the WHO say? "Complementary feeding should be timely, meaning that all infants should start receiving foods in addition to breast milk from 6 months onwards. It should be adequate, meaning that the nutritional value of complementary foods should parallel at least that of breast milk. Foods should be prepared and given in a safe manner, meaning that measures are taken to minimize the risk of contamination with pathogens. And they should be given in a way that is appropriate, meaning that foods are of appropriate texture and given in sufficient quantity." WHO Complementary Feeding Further, the "WHO recommends that infants start receiving complementary foods at 6 months of age in addition to breast milk, initially 2-3 times a day between 6-8 months, increasing to 3-4 times daily between 9-11 months and 12-24 months with additional nutritious snacks offered 1-2 times per day, as desired."

Your Baby Should Be Eating as Much Solid Baby Food as Your Baby Will Eat. You're wondering about the above statement aren't you? Ask the vast majority of pediatricians and they will all say, "Feed your baby as much as your baby will eat". One of the caveats when feeding your baby solid foods is that that you ensure that your baby is still receiving proper amounts of breast milk and/or formula. Solid foods in the early stage are meant for practice. Solids are not meant to provide for baby's nutrition as breast milk and/or formula are. Follow Your Baby's Cues When Feeding Your Baby Solid Foods Following your baby's cues during feeding time will ensure that your baby is eating the proper amounts of food for him or her. There is no "set-in-stone" guideline or chart of exactly how many jars of baby food or how many 8 ounce bottles of formula each baby should be receiving. This is simply because each and every baby is different. Babies will eat as much food and drink as much breast milk and/or formula as they need. For example: You may wonder how it is possible that your friend's 7 month old baby is eating 2 whole jars of baby food (8-9 oz) in one day while your 7 month old baby barely manages to eat 3 or 4 baby food cubes (3-4 oz) of food per day. You may also wonder why your baby nurses every 2 hours at 7 months old while your friend's baby may only nurse every 3 or 4 hours. Again, each baby has different food and milk needs and these needs are just right for the individual baby. How much solid food a baby will be eating depends on a variety of different things. Don't forget that your baby is a little human being, and like all of us, she has her own appetite. This will influence to how much solid foods she will be eating. As with adults, some babies will eat more than others due to their individual appetites. Below are a few key points to remember when feeding your baby. A baby who began solid foods at 4 months of age will most likely be eating more solid foods than the baby who began to eat solid foods at 6 months old. A baby who is eating soft diced foods as beginner foods may seem to eat less than the baby who is being spoonfed pures. A baby who is ill or teething may eat less than what has been typical for a few days and then suddenly the typical appetite comes roaring back. An infant who is busy exploring the carpet or the new soft-book she has received may be miffed when she is put into a high chair and offered food. The natural slow down of growth that babies go through will also influence how much they eat. They may be ravenous for a few days or a week or two and then suddenly, they are barely eating. Babies who are coming out of a growth spurt will tend to eat less than they were during the growth spurt. How do I know if my baby is eating enough solid food? As all pediatricians will tell you " Your baby will never starve himself or herself! " The majority of healthy babies will eat just the right amount of foods that they need. Resist the urge to offer "just one more bite" when baby indicates she's finished. You do not want to accidentally override your baby's developing ability to self-regulate his or her feeding by continuing to try and feed your baby. It is important to pay close attention to your baby's cues as your baby's feeding patterns will change daily and may be affected by the goings-on around him.

Offering a well balanced diet of solid foods will help ensure that your baby is eating the right amount of the right nutritious foods. Example feeding "schedule" of solid foods 1 ounce equals approximately 2 tablespoons 4-6 Months: Always offer solids after bottle or breast. Baby may eat anywhere from 1-3 tablespoons of food at 1 or 2 "meals" 6-8 Months: Formula and/or Breast Milk is still most important at this age and stage. Babies in this range may be just starting solids so the above for 4-6 Months would apply. Some babies may be eating up to 8 ounces of solid foods between 2-3 "meals" during a day. 8 Months and on: Many babies will be eating 3 "meals" per day at this stage; including a grain, fruit, veggie and a meat or protein source such as eggs. Again, pay close attention to your baby's cues as your baby's feeding patterns will change daily and may be affected by the goings-on around him. Your baby will eat just the right amount for YOUR baby. Here are a few things to watch for to ensure that you are not over or under feeding your baby: Signs that baby may want to continue to eat

Leaning in for the spoon Opening the mouth Grabbing for food and trying to put it in the mouth

Signs that your baby may be full

Closing of the mouth as the spoon comes close Spitting out the food that is being fed Turning the head away as the spoon comes closer

A healthy well-fed baby should be producing wet diapers regularly as well as producing a bowel movement or two during the day. Ensure that you take your baby to the well-child visits as scheduled so that your pediatrician may weigh and measure baby to ensure that your baby has good sustained growth. If you are ever uncertain about the foods and the amount of solid foods you are feeding your baby, always consult your baby's pediatrician. Your pediatrician should be able to assist you in validating your feeding routines and also help allay your fears.

Introducing solid foods to your 6 month - 8 month old baby Get ready for the fun, the folly and the mess! If your 6 month - 8 month old baby is just starting solids at this stage, start slowly, preparing a very small amount of whatever food you have chosen to begin with. Nurse or bottle feed your baby first and then offer your little one solids. It's important to remember that baby's milk continues to be more important than solids at this age - don't worry when baby won't eat more than a few bites.

Suggested Solid Food Chart for the 6 month old - 8 month old baby below:

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What to Eat at 6 to 8 Months of Age? AGE & STAGE - 6 months to 8 months old The AAP recommends that an infant not be started on solid foods until after 6 months of age. Many pediatricians still start babies on solids around 4 months of age. This chart accommodates all ages and stages up to 12 months. CEREALS Try mixing together the grains that your baby has had without any reaction(s) - Brown Rice and Oatmeal with Pear Sauce for example.

FRUITS Begin making your own fruit combinations once baby has had several fruits without any reaction(s). After 8 months old you may wish to try offering raw ripe fruits. Soft cooked fruits make for great beginner Baby Finger Foods; Learn about Introducing Baby Finger Foods. VEGGIES Veggie combinations are great to offer now. Ensure that all veggies have been previously offered without any reaction(s) prior to mixing & matching. After 8 months old you may wish to try offering soft cooked veggies in dices or tiny chunks and bits. Soft cooked veggies make for great beginner Baby Finger Foods. PROTEIN Once your baby has reached 8 months old, try offering tofu finger cubes dusted with Cheerio dust or other cereal dust. Many pediatricians are now recommending Meats as first foods due to the Iron content - ask your pediatrician. DAIRY Around 8 months old, you should be able to offer plain whole milk yogurt and mild cheeses to your baby. Many pediatricians even suggest yogurt as a great first food as early as 6 months of age. Mix some yogurt with a favorite fruit puree for a breakfast offering. Visit our Offering Your Baby Yogurt page for more information on introducing Yogurt and Cheese.

Baby Led Weaning More and more parents are opting to skip traditional baby food purees and choose Baby Led Weaning as a method for introducing solid foods. Baby Led Weaning means offering your baby (age appropriate) foods that soft-cooked and cut into small easily manageable pieces. These foods are then given to your baby to eat. You do the cooking, the dicing and the offering of the foods and your baby does the rest. As with breastfeeding on demand, Baby Led Weaning is a method of introducing solid foods that leaves it up to your baby to decide when and how much to eat. While not necessarily a "hands off" approach, The foods listed on our 4-6 month old chart and those listed on the chart here make great foods for introducing solids using the baby led weaning method! How much will my 6 month to 8 month old baby eat at his first meal? If your 6-8 month old baby is just starting solid foods, you will probably only manage to have baby eat 1/2 of the tablespoon sized portion the very first times you begin solids. If you are using a Baby Led Weaning approach, your baby may only manage to get a few pieces of food into his or her mouth. Don't fret if your baby does not "finish" a meal. Remember this is a new experience for your baby. As your baby becomes accustomed to eating solids, you will gradually increase the portion sizes. Remember, breast milk and/or infant formula are providing for the total nutrition of your baby at this stage. Read How Much Food Should My Baby Eat page for more information. Many parents find their babies will push the food out of their mouths on the first few tries. This is normal however it may also indicate that your baby is not yet ready for solid food.Only you know your baby and will be able to decide if baby is truly ready for solids. Sample Schedule for Introducing Baby's First Foods I have also compiled a sample schedule that you may find useful. This table gives you an idea of how and when to begin introducing baby to solid foods. Please keep in mind that this table was created from various medical authorities such as private pediatricians, the AAP, the AAFP and the WHO as well as our own experience. This table should be used as a guide only. Always consult your baby's pediatrician about solid foods.

Introducing Solid Foods to Your 8 - 10 Month Old Baby "I'm moving on and I want to feed myself!" Your 8-10 Month old baby might be crawling and trying to pull herself up. and she may not have a big interest in eating. As noted in the Is my Baby a Picky Eater page, your baby may suddenly begin to refuse to eat because she has more important things to do - like pull on the cat's tail or munch the scrap of paper she just found.

click to print updated 09 April 2011 At this stage, your little one may also start to Refuse to be Spoon Fed. Bring on some spices (8 months old) and softly mashed, or chopped into fine pieces, fruits, vegetables, meats, pasta and dairy such as yogurt and cheeses. Pasta, veggies, and fruit should all be soft cooked and possibly mashed with a fork or masher. (Bananas need only be mashed.) Meats and proteins such as egg yolk, should be cooked and pureed or chopped into small soft bits. If offering Tofu, you need not cook it first. Remember, your baby will not have molars until sometime around the 12-18 month age range so all foods should be easily mashed between the gums.

How much will your 8 month - 10 month old baby eat? Your 8 to 10 month old baby may seem to be starving herself at some point. Because you are likely offering her more finger food selections or thicker/chunkier foods, the amount of food eaten appears smaller. At this stage, your baby may be eating 3 "meals" a day and possibly enjoying a snack or 2 in between. There are some babies in this age range who will still be eating only 1 "meal" of solids so don't feel pressured to have your baby eat 3 solid food meals per day. The important thing is to watch your baby's hunger cues and and try to begin setting a schedule for 3 meals a day. Offer him a balanced array of foods - fruits, veggies, a protein & a grain if possible and ensure his nursing or formula feedings are adequate. Visit the Baby Menu to see an idea of some meals for this age range. What to Eat at 8 to 10 Months of Age? AGE/STAGE - 8 months - 10 months old The AAP recommends that an infant not be started on solid foods until after 6 months of age. Many pediatricians still start babies on solids around 4 months of age. This chart accommodates all ages and stages up to 12 months. CEREALS Try mixing together the grains that your baby has had without any reaction(s). Begin offering breads and muffins when baby has mastered mashing more textured foods. Pasta makes for great finger foods. FRUITS Begin making your own fruit combinations once baby has had several fruits without any reaction(s). Venture into Papaya and Melon Swirl. After 8 months old you may wish to try offering raw ripe fruits. Soft cooked fruits make for great beginner Baby Finger Foods. VEGGIES Soft cooked veggies make for great beginner Baby Finger Foods. Try mixing up a veggie medley now. Add some grated cheese for extra temptation & yumminess. Saute or roast some onions or peppers to add to baby's food or serve as finger foods. Make a Leek and Chicken Potato Mash. PROTEIN Once your baby has reached 8 months old, try an Egg Yolk Omelet the perfect chance to slip in some veggies. DAIRY Get adventurous with Cheeses and Yogurts now. Soft Cheeses such as Brie pose health risks so hold off on those. Avocado mashed with a bit of cream cheese YUM. Stages of Solid Foods - 8 months and older - Baby Let's Eat!

8 Months - Give me it all! Bring on some spices (8 months old) and the softly mashed, or chopped into fine pieces of fruits, vegetables, meats, pasta and dairy such as yogurt and cheeses.

Solid Foods for Your 10-12 Month old Baby - The Food World Awaits!

Your 10-12 Month old baby has probably found a few foods that are truly favorite foods. At this point, chunkier "table foods" are a big part of his meals and he may not like those thinner purees anymore. Your little one may really begin to refuse to eat but it is still unlikely that she is a Picky Eater. Children won't truly develop "picky eating" until sometime into the Toddler years, if at all. Your baby's refusal to eat even favorite foods may be attributed to many things. She may simply be too busy to stop exploring her world and she may get quite miffed when you put her in her highchair to eat. With her independence growing, she may also begin to show preferences for certain foods and Refuse to be Spoon Fed.

Take heart - while this stage of eating may be a bit frustrating, it won't last forever. Giving your baby the opportunity to choose the foods she wants to eat and how much she wants to eat is important; let your baby be your guide and try not to get frustrated. As long as you are offering a balanced diet of fruits, veggies and protein, she will be getting all the nutrition she needs!

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What to Eat at 10-12 Months of Age? As with your 8-10 month old, continue to expand baby's palate with new flavors. Experiment with new spices (8 months old) and new flavorful combinations. Offer your little foodie a yummy chicken curry for example.

Pasta, veggies, and fruit should all be soft cooked and possibly mashed with a fork or masher. (Bananas need only be mashed.) Meats and proteins such as egg yolk, should be cooked and pureed or chopped into small soft bits. If offering Tofu, you need not cook it first. Remember, baby will not have molars until sometime around the 12-18 month age range. Foods should be easily mashed between the gums. How much will your 10 month - 12 month old baby eat? Your 10 month old baby will have a varied appetite. Some days you'll think there is not enough food in the world to fill her belly while other days you'll wonder if she will ever eat another bite. As with the 8-10 month old baby, because you are likely offering her more finger food selections or thicker/chunkier foods, the amount of food eaten appears smaller. What to Eat at 10-12 Months of Age? AGE/STAGE - Ten to Twelve (10-12) Months old CEREALS & GRAINS All grains and pastas! Create your own baby pasta salad with favorite veggies and cheeses. FRUITS Begin making your own fruit combinations once baby has had several fruits without any reaction(s). Go slowly if introducing citrus fruits now and watch for possible reactions to the acidity. VEGGIES Soft cooked veggies make for great beginner Baby Finger Foods. Try mixing up a soft cooked and diced veggie medley now. Slowly introduce tomato and other acidic foods; watch for reactions to the acidity. MEATS & PROTEIN Between 10-12 months old you should be able to introduce white-fleshed fish (if you have not already done so) and other types of fish. Bake fish plain or breaded and offer with steamed veggies for a healthy meal. Salmon makes a great meal for your baby! DAIRY By 12 months old, baby may be weaning from breast milk or formula to whole milk. Help ease the change by offering breast milk and milk or milk and formula mixed during the first few days of the transition. Breast-fed babies may also be weaning now but remember, there is no reason to wean your breastfed baby until your baby is ready.

Solid Food Chart for Babies Grouped by Food Types The solid food chart found below has been compiled according to food type. As with all of the charts found on this site, this chart is somewhat conservative in nature compared to guidelines from other sources. The chart shows age-ranges for each foods. We have researched and compiled these charts from various medical authorities such as private pediatricians, the AAP, the AAFP, and the WHO. The chart below is grouped by food group first and then alphabetically by the type of food. You may print the food chart below and ask your Pediatrician about the listings and recommendations. As always, I highly recommend that you always consult your babys pediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby. It is important that you avoid any suggested foods that may pose an allergy risk for your baby. Please remember that all foods have the potential to be an allergen.

Combined Baby Food Menus for babies from birth to age 12 months.

When you read through these, or any other, sample menus, it is important to note that not all babies will be eating the same amounts as others, nor will they be eating the same foods. This is due to the differing ages that babies start solid foods as well as the fact that all babies are not the same. Do NOT feel as though your baby should be eating solid foods according to any schedule. Your baby will eat as much solid foods as your baby needs - trust your baby cues. Learn more about how to tell if Your Baby Is Ready For Solids

Breast Milk and/or Formula are THE MOST IMPORTANT sources of nutrition for your infant up to 12 months old. Do NOT replace a nursing or bottle-feeding with a solid food meal and do not feed the solids first until your pediatrician indicates this is right for your baby.

It cannot be stressed enough - all babies are different and your baby may eat more or less than what is shown on these example charts. This menu and sample schedule outlines examples and shows ideas for solid foods only. It does not account for, nor does it list, total daily Breast Milk or Formula intake. See a "Suggested "Milk" chart below. As always, you should feed your baby according to his or her cues and needs. Always consult your pediatrician if you are worried that your baby is not receiving proper amounts of either milk or solid foods. Many breastfeeding moms supplement with formula as their milk supply may be low for a variety of reasons. We give kudos to those moms who continue to hang in there and offer their babies breast milk while supplementing. Hooray for you. You will find our menu samples include the use of both breast milk and formula, separately and together as a total "meal" solution.

Baby Menu Sample for Babies 0-3 Months of Age Breakfast - Breast Milk and/or Formula Lunch - Breast Milk and/or Formula Dinner - Breast Milk and/or Formula

Notes: The 3 basic "meals" have been included for example purposes only. This is not meant

to be taken as a suggestion, nor is it implied, that you should limit your infant to 3 meals per day. ** At this age and stage, most infants are hungry continually and thus are fed "around the clock" and on demand. The best way to feed your infant is as often as your baby needs "on demand".

Baby Menu Sample for Babies (4) 6- 8 Months of Age Early Morning Awakening - Breast Milk and/or Formula Breakfast - Breast Milk and/or Formula first. Infant Cereal (Optional) - 1 food cube or 1-2 tablespoons Fruit or Vegetable (Optional) - 1 food cube or 1-2 tablespoons - serve mixed into the cereal or separately Lunch - Breast Milk and/or Formula first. Infant Cereal (Optional) - 1 food cube or 1-2 tablespoons Fruit or Vegetable (Optional) - 1 or 2 food cubes (2-4 tablespoons) of each, or mix the cubes together. Example: apples and carrots are delicious together. Feed with or without the cereal Snack/Dinner - Breast Milk and/or Formula first. Fruit or Vegetable (Optional) - 1 food cube or 1-2 tablespoons

3 meals a day at this age? Many babies are not ready to eat 3 "meals" per day until well into the 9-10 month range. There are however many babies who do begin to eat 3 "meals" at 7-8 months old. Feeding Hints: Start out slowly, preparing a tablespoon sized portion of whatever food you have chosen to begin with. You will probably only manage to have baby eat 1/2 of the tablespoon sized portion the very first times you begin solids. As your baby becomes accustomed to eating solids, you will gradually increase the portion sizes. Pushing Food Out of the Mouth: Many parents find their babies will push the food out of their mouths on the first few tries. This is normal however, it may also indicate that your baby is not yet ready for solid food; only you know your baby and will be able to decide if baby is truly ready for solids. ** (Optional) accounts for the fact that not all babies between (4)6-8 months of age will be eating "meals" of any or all of the suggested foods at a given mealtime **

Baby Menu Sample for Babies 8-12 Months of Age Early Morning Awakening -Breast Milk and/or Formula Breakfast - Breast Milk and/or Formula first. Infant Cereal - 1 food cube or 1-2 tablespoons Fruit or Vegetable - 2 or 3 food cubes or 4-6 tablespoons total Dairy (Optional) - Yogurt - 1 or 2 food cube sized portions (or about 2 tablespoons) Read about Introducing Yogurt to Your Baby Lunch - Breast Milk and/or Formula first. Infant Cereal or Other Grain - (Optional) (i.e. pasta, rice) - 1 or 2 food cubes or 2-4 tablespoons Meat/Meat-Protein Alternate - (Optional) 1 or 2 food cubes or 2-4 tablespoons Fruit or Vegetable - 2 or 3 food cubes or 4-6 tablespoons total of each or you can mix the cubes together with the Grain

Example: Rice mixed with Peas served with Pear Sauce on the side Dairy (Optional) - Yogurt or Cheeses *A Lunch of Fruits, Veggies and a Protein without grains is an option. A Lunch of a Grain with Fruits and Veggies without a protein is also an option. Snack/Dinner - Breast Milk and/or Formula first. Grain (Optional) (i.e. pasta, rice) - 1 or 2 food cubes Meat/Meat Alternate - (Optional) - 1 food cube Fruit and/or Vegetable - 2 or 3 food cubes of each or mix the cubes together Example: Tofu mixed with Avocado served with Applesauce & Blueberries on he side Dairy - Yogurt or Cheeses (Optional)

Notes: 3 Meals a Day? Keep in mind that even at this age group, many infants are still not ready to eat 3 "meals" per day until well into the 9-10 month range. Please keep in mind that many infants do not begin solids until 6 months of age and not all babies will be eating the same amounts or food items. There are many infants who may eat 4-6 ounces of food per day at 6 or 7 months old while others who are just starting solids will be within the 1-2 ounce range. You should follow the menu ideas in keeping with your infant's development and eating habits as well as your pediatrician's advice.

The menus for baby food below are designed to give you an idea of what babies may be eating from 4 months to 8 months of age.

Do NOT feel as though your baby should be eating solid foods according to any schedule. Your baby will eat as much solid foods as your baby needs - trust your baby cues. Start out slowly and let baby take time to taste and experiment with the food. Pay attention to your baby's cues. She may want more if she continues to lean in for the spoon, opens her mouth or tries to grab the spoon and bring it to her. She may be finished when she turns her head away, clamps her mouth shut or cries as the spoon comes close to her. Don't fret if there's leftover food in the bowl and never force your baby to eat "one more bite" when she indicates she's finished. This menu sample is for example and idea purposes only! You should always feed your baby according to his or her needs and cues and not strictly by any chart or schedule. You should look to charts and schedules as examples and for ideas about feeding your baby; following any chart or offered schedule may not be suitable for your baby's particular circumstances and needs. What is a Food Cube serving? When you see a reference to to a "food cube", this means an ice cube sized serving. Each cube is equal to approximately 1 ounce.

4-6 month old babies will likely be eating between 2 and 4 ounces of food per day. Some 4-6 month old babies may not have started solids at all. At 6 or 7 months old, some infants may eat 4-6 ounces of food per day while babies who are just starting solids at 6 or 7 months of age may be eating only 1-2 ounces per day. Remember the 4 day wait rule when creating a menu plan for your baby and offer only those foods that your baby tolerates well. Following any chart or offered schedule may not be suitable for your baby. It is important to say again that this menu sample is for example and idea purposes. The menus are geared to give you ideas of what types of food you could serve at different meal times to get a good balance of nutrients and variety. These menu suggestions assume that you have introduced the foods that are shown and that you have waited the proper time period to detect an allergic reaction. Do NOT feel as though your baby should be eating solid foods according to any schedule. Your baby will eat as much solid foods as your baby needs - trust your baby's cues.

Breast Milk and/or Formula are THE MOST IMPORTANT sources of nutrition for your infant up to 12 months old. Do NOT replace a nursing or bottle-feeding with a solid food meal and do not feed the solids first until your pediatrician indicates this is right for your baby.

When you look at these sample menus, dont think about serving adult sized portions. Your little one surely could not eat 1 cup of oatmeal with 1 whole avocado mashed into it. However, your little one might be able to eat 4 tablespoons of oatmeal with 2 tablespoons of mashed avocado. We do not note amounts of foods because, as we say, all babies are different and will be eating differing amounts of foods.

By 8-9 months of age, most babies will be eating 3 solid food meals per day. A baby's appetite will change from one meal to the next so don't expect your baby to eat 3 "full" meals each and every day. Read our How Much Should My Baby Be Eating article to learn why your baby may eat more or less than others. All babies are different and your baby may eat more or less than what is shown on these example charts. Remember, it cannot be stressed enough; all babies are different and your baby may eat more or less than what is shown on these example charts. This menu and sample schedule outlines examples and shows ideas for solid foods only. It does not account for, nor does it list, total daily Breast Milk or Formula intake. See a "Suggested "Milk" chart on the right sidebar to view how much "milk" your baby should be/might be drinking. As always, you should feed your baby according to his or her cues and needs. Always consult your pediatrician if you are worried that your baby is not receiving proper amounts of either milk or solid foods. Many breastfeeding moms supplement with formula as their milk supply may be low for a variety of reasons. We give kudos to those moms who continue to hang in there and offer their babies breast milk while supplementing. Hooray for you. You will find our menu samples include the use of both breast milk and formula, separately and together as a total "meal" solution.

The baby feeding menus below are designed to give you an idea of what babies may be eating from 8 months to 12 months of age. Wow! Your little one is quickly moving onto new foods, more meals and greater independence. By this stage/time, she has now been introduced to a wider variety of foods but please remember the 4 day wait rule. There are still a variety of foods that your baby has not tried and adverse reactions are still possible. At this point, you may have been gradually increasing the amount of solids your baby eats as baby gets older and becomes accustomed to eating solid foods. Offer your baby 1 or 2 food cubes of each item when your baby indicates she is ready for more. You may also think about introducing finger foods and more textured "table" foods at this age range.

It is important to note that even at this stage, not all babies between the age of 8-12 months old will be eating the same amounts nor will they be eating the same foods. Again, due to the differing ages that babies start solid foods, some 10 month old babies still may not have had dairy products for example. There are many infants that do not start solids until 8 months of age and thus, this particular menu sample would not be appropriate. Following any chart or offered schedule may not be suitable for your baby. Our menu sample is for example and idea purposes. The menus are geared to give you ideas of what types of food you could serve at different meal times to get a good balance of nutrients and variety. These menu suggestions assume that you have introduced the stated foods and that you have waited the proper time period to detect an allergic reaction.Do NOT feel as though your baby should be eating solid foods according to any schedule. Your baby will eat as much solid foods as your baby needs - trust your baby's cues.

Breast Milk and/or Formula are THE MOST IMPORTANT sources of nutrition for your infant up to 12 months old. Do NOT replace a nursing or bottle-feeding with a solid food meal and do not feed the solids first until your pediatrician indicates this is right for your baby.

When you look at our sample menus, dont think about serving adult sized portions. Your little one surely could not eat 1 cup of oatmeal with of a banana mashed into it along with cup of yogurt for example. However, your little one might be able to eat cup of oatmeal with a wee bit of banana mashed in with a small drizzle of yogurt to stir in. We do not note amounts of foods because, as we say, all babies are different and will be eating differing amounts of foods.

What is a Food Cube serving? A "food cube" is an ice cube sized serving. Each ice cube is equal to approximately 1 ounce. There are approximately 2 tablespoons in an ounce.

Did you know that your baby does not have to eat rice cereal as a first food? Baby's first taste of solid food should be a single ingredient, age appropriate food. A few wonderful choices for first foods for babies, as many pediatric resources are now acknowledging, are tasty and creamy avocados, bananas and sweet potatoes. These healthy and nutritious foods make really great first foods for baby because they are easy to digest and full of vitamins, minerals, fats and other nutrients a growing baby needs.. This page is full of recipes for fresh homemade first foods for baby and are idea first food recipes to introduce to your baby between the ages of (4) and 6 months old. Many parents still begin to introduce solid foods (complimentary or weaning foods) to their babies prior to the age of 6 months olds. These recipes acknowledge and accommodate this fact. Ideally, babies should have nothing but breast milk and/or formula during the first 6 months of life. Read more about baby being ready for solids and view our list of resources that advocate delaying solid foods.

Nutritious and Tasty & Wholesome Baby Food for First Food Feedings

Avocado - a great first food for baby, avocados burst with essential fats and nutrients that a growing baby needs. Smooth and creamy, avocados are easily digested and well tolerated by most babies! Vitamins: A, C, Niacin, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium 1. Peel and take out the pit of a ripe avocado - do not cook 2. Cut meat out and mash with a fork 3. There should be no need to use a machine as just like bananas, avocados have a very soft consistency and texture. Avocados do not need to be cooked 4. Add formula/breast milk or water to thin or add cereal (if desired) to thicken up. Learn More about Avocado

Bananas - bananas are another great first food for your baby. Research indicates that bananas and their mucosal properties actually help coat the tummy and help aid in digestion. Bananas are sweet, which may help baby more readily accept the first food experience. Learn more about bananas and if it's true that sweet fruits and veggies should not be introduced first. Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Selenium, Magnesium, Calcium 1. Peel a ripe banana - do not cook 2. Place banana in a food processor/food mill or blender and puree 3. You can also mash the banana in a bowl using a regular fork heat in microwave for 25 seconds prior to mashing for extra softness 4. Add formula/breast milk or water to thin or add cereal (if desired) to thicken up.

Organic Brown Rice Cereal - Did you know that baby's first food does not have to be a commercial infant rice cereal? Many pediatric resources are acknowledging the fact that avocado, banana and sweet potato make great first foods for baby. If you decide to make homemade baby cereal, make it with brown rice (organic if preferred). Whole grains are more healthy and nutritious for your baby (and for the whole family). Learn more about whole grains. You may also be interested in reading our Cereal FAQ explaining what types of grains to use, how long they may be stored and more. 1/4 c. rice powder (organic brown rice ground in blender or food processor) 1 cup water 1. Bring liquid to boil in saucepan. Add the rice powder while stirring constantly. 3. Simmer for 10 minutes, whisking constantly, mix in formula or breast milk and fruits if desired Serve warm.

Pears Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium 1. Peel and cut into chunks so as to avoid the little seed portion. 2. Steam gently until tender; 3. Place in a blender/food processor and puree until smooth. You may be able to just use a fork too. 4. Use the leftover cooking water if needed but Pears tend to be very runny and watery without adding liquid Add some baby cereal to thicken if needed.

Acorn or Butternut Squash (winter) (nutrient info for squash of all types may be found at our "Tips on Squash" page) 1. Cut acorn, hubbard, or butternut squash in half, scoop out seeds 2. Place an inch of water in a baking pan, then place squash halves "face" down in the pan. Check on water level while baking 3. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 40 minutes or until the shell/skin puckers and halves feel soft then scoop squash meat out of the shell 4. Place squash "meat" into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 5. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency. 6. You can also peel the squash, scoop out the seeds and then cut into chunks and boil/steam until tender (like when boiling potatoes for mashed potatoes) 7. Follow steps 4 and 5

Yams/Sweet Potato Vitamins: A (24,877 mg ), C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Sodium, Selenium, Phosphorous, Magnesium, Calcium 1. Wash and poke holes in sweet potato with fork then wrap sweet potatoes in tin foil - do not peel for baking/microwaving. (you can also do this in the microwave - only use plastic wrap and cook for 8 minutes on

high or until tender) 2. Place in a 400 degree oven and bake for 30 minutes or until soft. 3. OR 4. Peel sweet potatoes and cut into small chunks 5. Place chunks into a pan with just enough water to slightly cover potato 6. "Steam" boil until tender, be sure to check on the water level. 7. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the sweet potatoes 8. If you have baked your sweet potato, remove skins and use liquid from your preferred source 9. Place sweet potato into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 10. Add the reserved water or other liquid as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency minutes or until a knife inserted near center comes out clean. Learn why a Yam really is NOT a Yam and other information about serving Sweet Potatoes to your Baby

More First Foods & Homemade Baby Food Recipes Mango (6-8 months - sometimes over 8 months - learn more about Mango) Vitamins: A (1262 IU in one cup.), C, E, K, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium, Sodium 1 Ripe Mango Peel, Deseed and mash Mango until smooth Add formula/breast milk or water to thin or add cereal (if desired) to thicken up. Apples (Applesauce) Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium This recipe is written so that you may use any amount of apples you wish. 1. Peel, core and cut apple into slices/chunks 2. Place slices or chunks into a pan with just enough water to slightly cover apples 3. Boil/steam until tender; be sure to check on the water level and stir. 4. Apples may be mashed with a potato masher to achieve a smooth applesauce consistency. If your masher will not achieve a puree type of consistency, then follow steps 5 7 5. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the apples 6. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 7. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin puree 8. Add cereal (if desired) to thicken up the 9. Ask your pediatrician about adding some cinnamon for new tastes. HINT. You may also buy an "Adult" jar of Natural applesauce from your local grocers. Make sure you buy Natural Applesauce however. Read the labels if you are unsure. The only ingredients should be apples and water or just apples. A few companies may add ascorbic acid (vitamin C) or citric acid to their Natural Applesauce; this is fine.

Stage 1 Baby Food Recipes - Make Fresh, Delicious Stage 1 Homemade Baby Food

These Stage 1 Homemade Baby Food Recipes are age appropriate for those babies who are between 4 months and 6 months. Many babies start solid foods between 4 months and 6 months so we have included fruits and veggies that your 4 month old beginning eater will be able to tolerate. Of course these recipes are also just yummy for babies who are older as well! Please keep in mind that current recommendations advise that babies should start solid foods at or closer to 6 months of age. Enjoy the delicious and nutritious Stage 1 Baby Food Recipes Ideas as found below. Some Commonly Offered Stage 1 Baby Foods: Stage 1 Fruits: Apples | Avocados | Apricots | Bananas | Mango Nectarines & Peaches | Papaya | Pears | Plums & Prunes | Pumpkin Stage 1 Veggies: Beans (Green) | Carrots | Peas | Sweet Potato | Squash Stage 1 Grains: Rice | Oatmeal | Barley

What is "Stage 1" baby food? (4) 6-8 Months - Baby Let's Begin to Eat "Baby" cereal and soft cooked thinly pureed fruits and veggies should be baby's first solid food experiences. Single ingredients only and at a space of 4 days apart with introducing each new food. You may skip the cereal and begin with a fruit like avocado or begin with a veggie like butternut squash or sweet potato. Stage 1 Baby Food is a term that applies to baby foods that are highly pureed and strained. These foods are appropriate for babies who are just being introduced to solid foods. The foods in this range are targeted to babies who are between the ages of (4) 6 to 8 months old. Stage 1 baby foods are thin and runny and are foods that are the lowest on the allergy scale. Stage 1 baby foods are typically those foods that are also more easily digested by a tiny tummy. Some of these foods include, sweet potatoes, butternut or winter squash and carrots. The term "Stage 1" was introduced by the Beechnut Baby Food Company to let parents know that these foods are appropriate for their infants who are just being introduced to solid foods.

There is a growing trend of parents skipping "stage 1" foods that are thin and runny purees. Many parents are turning to a more baby-led weaning approach and are offering soft cooked small bits of ageappropriate foods as they begin to introduce solid foods. Your baby might just be interested in this feeding approach! Stage 1 Homemade Baby Food Recipes - Cereal, Fruits & Veggies

Rice Cereal 1/4 c. rice powder (brown rice ground in blender or food processor) 1 cup water 1. Bring liquid to boil in saucepan. Add the rice powder while stirring constantly. 2. Simmer for 10 minutes, whisking constantly, mix in formula or breast milk and fruits if desired 3. Serve warm. Oatmeal Cereal 1/4 c. of ground oats (do NOT use instant or Quick Cook), ground in blender or food processor 3/4 c. water 1. Bring liquid to boil in saucepan. Add the rice powder while stirring constantly. 2. Simmer for 10 minutes, whisking constantly, mix in formula or breast milk and fruits if desired 3. Serve warm. Barley Cereal 1/4 c. ground barley (barley ground in blender or food processor) 1 cup water 1. Bring liquid to a boil. Add the barley and simmer for 10 minutes, whisking constantly 2. Mix in formula or breast milk or juice and add fruits if desired 3. Serve warm Did you know that baby's first food does not have to be a commercial infant rice cereal? Many pediatric resources are acknowledging the fact that avocado, banana and sweet potato make great first foods for baby. For More Information About Homemade Baby Cereal, visit Our Homemade Baby Cereal FAQ

Feeding Baby Stage 1 Baby Foods Start out slowly, preparing a tablespoon sized portion of whatever food you have chosen to begin with. Some parents begin offering their babies solid foods by using their (clean and washed) finger as a spoon. They say that this helps their babies take to solid foods because the "new" spoon and the "new" food all at once seem to confuse baby.

You will probably only manage to have baby eat 1/2 of the tablespoon sized portion the very first times you begin solids. Don't fret if your baby does not "finish" a meal.

Apricot Puree 6-8months+ (using dried un-sulphured apricots) Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Calcium 1 pound dried apricots 2 cups of white grape juice, pear or apple juice. Plain water is ok but the puree may be a bit bitter. 1. Bring liquid and fruit to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. 2. Reserve any left over liquid to use for the puree 3. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 4. Add the reserved liquid as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin puree or 5. Add cereal (if desired) to thicken up 6. Note: puree will not freeze solid, but into slightly soft/slightly frozen cubes.

Have you ever Baked Fruits? If not, I highly recommend it. Baked fruits are naturally sweet, soft and oh so very yummy. Apples/Applesauce (4)6 months+ Try Gala, Braeburn, Rome or Macs) Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium This recipe is written so that you may use any amount of apples you wish. 1. Peel, core and cut apple into slices/chunks 2. Place slices or chunks into a pan with just enough water to slightly cover apples 3. Boil/steam until tender; be sure to check on the water level and stir, T hat's It. Easy Peasy. 4. Apples may be mashed with a potato masher to achieve a smooth applesauce consistency. If your masher will not achieve a puree type of consistency, then follow steps 5 - 7 5. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the apples 6. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 7. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin puree 8. Add cereal (if desired) to thicken up the 9. Ask your pediatrician about adding some cinnamon for new tastes. You may also buy an "Adult" jar of Natural applesauce from your local grocers. Make sure you buy Natural Applesauce however. Read the labels if you are unsure. The only ingredients should be apples and water or just apples. A few companies may add ascorbic acid (vitamin C) or citric acid to their Natural Applesauce; this is fine.

Avocado (yes, avocado is a fruit.) (4)6 months+ Vitamins: A, C, Niacin, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium 1. Peel and take out the pit of a ripe avocado - do not cook 2. Cut meat out and mash with a fork 3. There should be no need to use a machine as just like bananas, avocados have a very soft consistency and texture. Avocados do not need to be cooked. Visit the Avocado Baby Food page for more recipes and Information Baked Apples 6-8months+ 1. Core apple and leave peel on 2. Place a wee bit of butter (if baby is ready for or has had dairy) on the inside of the cored apple (sprinkle a bit of cinnamon in the apple if your desire and if baby is ready for or has had cinnamon) 3. Place in a pan with just enough water to slightly cover apples about an inch of water 4. Bake in a 400-degree oven for 30 minutes or until tender; be sure to check on the water level. 5. Once baked, either cut apple into little bits and serve as a finger food or mash as directed above in the Apples/Applesauce recipe. Banana Applesauce Mush (4)6 months+ 1 apple 1 ripe banana 1. Peel, core and cut apple into slices/chunks 2. Place slices or chunks into a pan with just enough water to slightly cover apples 3. Boil until tender; be sure to check on the water level. 4. Apples may be mashed with a potato masher to achieve a smooth applesauce consistency or you can puree in an appliance as shown above 5. Peel a ripe banana and mash in a bowl with a fork (heating in the microwave for approximately 20 seconds will soften the banana up if needed) 6. Add applesauce to the banana and sprinkle with wheat germ* or crushed cheerios* 7. Puree if necessary but mashing with a potato masher will typically get this mix smooth *8months+ Back to Top Bananas (4)6 months+ Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Selenium, Magnesium, Calcium 1 Banana or however many you wish 1. Peel ripe banana - do not cook 2. Place banana in a food processor/food mill or blender and puree 3. You can also mash the banana in a bowl using a regular fork heat in microwave for 25 seconds prior to mashing for extra softness 4. Add formula/breast milk or water to thin or add cereal (if desired) to thicken up. Mango Madness 6-8months+ Vitamins: A (1262 IU in one cup.), C, E, K, Folate

Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium, Sodium 1 Ripe Mango Peel, de- seed and chunk the mango Place mango chunks in a blender or food processor Add Formula, Breast Milk, or Water and blend or mash until the proper consistency for your Infant is achieved.

How to Cut A Mango: Cut the mango lengthwise, along the side of the mango pit. You will be cutting off its flesh from one side then repeating the same process on the other side. You will then cut the ends off the mango pit. Cut the remaining flesh from the pit. Use a small sharp knife peel the skin from the flesh. Dice or cube as desired. It is easier to make your cubes/dices prior to removing the skin. Make sure you don't cut through it. Once you have made your cube/dice "pattern" simply turn the skin skin inside out and slice the pieces away. *Mango does not need to be cooked as it is typically introduced at an age where baby can tolerate raw fruits. Mango may be steamed to tender and then mashed if you prefer without harming it. You may use mango as a great Baby Finger Foods. Simply peel, de-seed and then cut into dices or chunks that are manageable for your baby. You may wish to coat the mango pieces with "cheerio dust", wheat germ or another cereal "dust" to help baby easily pick up the bits. Papaya 6-8months+ Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Calcium 1 ripe papaya Peel, de-seed and chunk the papaya Place papaya chunks in a blender or food processor Add formula, breast milk, or water and blend or mash until the proper consistency for your Infant is achieved. Some parents who have infants with sensitive tummies will give fruits a gentle steaming to help break down the sugars and fibers for easier digestion. If you feel this is the case for your infant, chunk the papaya and then steam for 5-10 minutes until very soft. Pears, Plums, Peaches and Nectarines too

Pear (Great for Constipation.) (4)6 months+ Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium Peel and cut into chunks so as to avoid the little seed portion. Steam gently until tender if baby is under 6 months.

Place in a blender/food processor and puree until smooth; yYou may be able to just use a fork! Use the leftover cooking water if needed but Pears tend to be very runny and watery without adding liquid. Add some baby cereal to thicken if needed. Plums (4)6-8months+ Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium 2-3 ripe plums Peel and pit the plums Cut into chunks Steam until tender in a scant amount of water if baby is under 6 months. Puree using the leftover cooking liquid. You may need to mix in another fruit as plum pure has a tendency to be rather tart and/or bitter Peaches (4)6-8months+ Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium You may steam or bake peaches; these methods work for nectarines, plums and pears as well. I HIGHLY recommend giving baked peaches a try at least once. You will find they are more tasty when baked. Steam Peaches - Method 1 1. Scrub fruit clean and carve an X into 1 side of the fruit 2. Place X side down in a pan with an inch of water 3. Bring water to a boil and steam until soft and tender 4. Peel skin from fruit and remove pits and/or seeds 5. move to step #6 below Steam Peaches - Method 2 1. Peel fruit 2. Pit the peach 3. Cut the peach into dices 4. Steam until soft and tender then 5. move to step #6 Bake 1. Halve the fruit and place "open" side down in a pan filled with 1 inch of water 2. Bake at 400F until soft and tender and/or puckering of the skin appears. 3. Peel skin from fruit and remove pits and/or seeds then 4. move to step #6Moving to Step 6 6. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the fruits 7. Peel off skin then place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 8. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin puree 9. Add cereal (if desired) to thicken up. Back to Top Prunes 6-8months+ Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium 1 small bag of dried prunes (try to use unsulphured dried fruits whenever possible!)

1. Soak dried prunes in warm water until they plump up or steam gently. 2. Once plump and tender, toss into food processor or blender and begin to puree. 3. Add liquid without sparing any. Prunes tend to become a pasty gluey consistency when pureed and the more water you add, the easier it is to puree to a texture your baby will tolerate. Pumpkin (4)6-8months+ Read more about Pumpkin on the Pumpkin Baby Food page Vitamins: A (12230 IU in 1 cup.), C, K, Folate, Niacin Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium, Iron 1 medium sugar pumpkin, no heavier than 5 pounds 1. Cut sugar pumpkin (the kind meant to be baked and eaten.) in half, scoop out seeds 2. Place an inch of water in a baking pan, then place the halves "face" down in the pan. Check on water level while baking 3. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 40 minutes or until the shell/skin puckers and halves feel soft then scoop squash meat out of the shell 4. Place pumpkin "meat" into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 5. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency. 6. You can also peel the pumpkin, scoop out the seeds and then cut into chunks and boil/steam until tender (like when boiling potatoes for mashed potatoes) then follow steps 4 and 5.

You may also buy a can of pumpkin from your local grocers. Make sure you buy Pumpkin and NOT Pumpkin Pie mix however. Read the labels if you are unsure. The only ingredients should be pumpkin and water or just pumpkin. You do not need to cook canned pumpkin. You may thin the pumpkin with whatever liquid you prefer and then serve or warm and serve. You may also freeze canned pumpkin in ice cube trays if you wish.

Green Beans (4) 6 months+ (this method may be used for Peas as well)* Vitamins A, C, K, Niacin, Folate Minerals:Potassium, Sodium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium 1. If using Fresh Beans, snap the ends off the beans and wash the beans. If using Fresh Peas, open the pods and scrape out the peas from the pod. If using frozen of either Peas or Green Beans, cook according to package directions. 2. Place fresh beans into a steamer basket in a pan with a just enough water to slightly show through in the basket. 3. Steam until very tender; be sure to check on the water level. 4. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the beans.

5. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. It is best to use the setting that makes the finest liquid purees - green bean and pea skins are rather difficult to completely puree. ***Using a blender rather than a food processor or stick mixer might be better as well. *** 6. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency 7. You may wish to push the green beans (or peas) through a sieve or mesh strainer to get rid of any remaining skins. Carrots* 6-8months+ Vitamins A (19,152 IU), C, Folate Minerals:Potassium, Sodium, Phosphorous, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium 1. Peel carrots and cut into small chunks 2. Place chunks into a steamer pan with just enough water visible through the steamer basket 3. Steam until tender 4. Do not reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the carrots if baby is under 8 months old as Nitrates may seep into the cooking water 5. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 6. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency *(See Our article on Nitrates) Garden Vegetable Combo 6-8months+ after all vegetables have been introduced following the 4 Day Wait Rule Green Beans, Summer Squash, Peas and Carrots 1. Combine fresh or frozen green beans and peas, summer and/or zucchini squash and small pieces of chopped carrots. 2. Add enough water to just cover the vegetables. 3. Cook until tender, reserving water. 4. Puree vegetables in blender or food processor, 5. Adding reserved water from the vegetables until mixture is of the desired consistency. Peas Vitamins A (4533 IU), C, Niacin, Folate Minerals:Potassium, Sodium, Selenium, Phosphorous, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium, Zinc 1. If using Fresh Peas, open the pods and scrape out the peas from the pod. If using frozen type of either Peas or Green Beans, cook according to package directions. 2. Place fresh peas into a steamer basket in a pan with a just enough water to slightly show through in the basket. 3. Steam until very tender; be sure to check on the water level. 4. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the peas. 5. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. It is best to use the setting that makes the finest liquid purees - green bean and pea skins are rather difficult to completely puree. Using a blender rather than a food processor or stick mixer might be better as well. 6. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency 7. You may wish to push the peas (or green beans) through a sieve or mesh strainer to get rid of any remaining skins Why cant I get peas and green beans to puree smooth?

If you are using a Food Processor, try the Blender. The Blender seems to work the best for getting Peas into a more fine puree. Peas and green beans are very hard to get pureed into a very fine, smooth consistency. You

can put them in a strainer and work out the skins if using fresh or you can use frozen for a smoother consistency and minimal effort to work out the skins. Another method for getting beans and peas smoother is to immediately plunge them into ice cold water once you remove them from the stove top. Once cooled, puree as usual. You may also use beans/legumes (kidney beans, lentils, split peas etc..) if your doctor says it is ok for babys age. Please keep in mind that you will never be able to achieve the consistency equal to that of the baby food that comes in jars. Some parents choose to leave green beans and peas for later introduction, when baby enjoys texture and is able to eat them as Baby Finger Foods Squash (Winter - Butternut, Acorn, Hubbard) (4) 6 months+ (nutrient info for squash of all types may be found at the Squash for Baby page) 1 medium sized butternut or acorn squash 1. Cut acorn, hubbard, or butternut squash in half, scoop out seeds 2. Place an inch of water in a baking pan, then place squash halves "face" down in the pan. Check on water level while baking 3. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 40 minutes or until the shell/skin puckers and halves feel soft then scoop squash meat out of the shell 4. Place squash "meat" into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 5. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency. 6. You can also peel the squash, scoop out the seeds and then cut into chunks and boil/steam until tender (like when boiling potatoes for mashed potatoes) then follow steps 4 and 5 Squash (Summer/Zucchini) 6-8months+ nutrient info for squash of all types may be found at the "Tips on Squash" page 3-4 small to medium sized yellow squash or zucchini 1. Choose yellow squash or zucchini that are somewhat small in diameter, as these are the most tender. 2. Wash squash thoroughly and cut into small slices or chunks. Do not remove skins. (*You may remove skins however an infant over the age of 8 months old should be able to digest squash puree with skins on) 3. Steam until tender then place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 4. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency Yams/Sweet Potato (4)6 months+ Learn why a Yam really is NOT a Yam. Vitamins A (24,877 mg ), C, Folate Minerals:Potassium, Sodium, Selenium, Phosphorous, Magnesium, Calcium 1. Wash and poke holes in sweet potato with fork then wrap sweet potatoes in tin foil - do not peel for baking/microwaving. (you can also do this in the microwave - only use plastic wrap and cook for 8 minutes on high or until tender) 2. Place in a 400 degree oven and bake for 30 minutes or until soft 3. OR

4. Peel sweet potatoes and cut into small chunks 5. Place chunks into a pan with just enough water to slightly cover potato 6. "Steam" boil until tender, be sure to check on the water level. 7. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the sweet potatoes 8. If you have baked your sweet potato, remove skins and use liquid from your preferred source 9. Place sweet potato into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 10. Add the reserved water or other liquid as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency

Stage 2 Baby Food Recipes - Easy Baby Food Recipes for Babies from 8 to 10-12 months of age.

These Stage 2 Homemade Baby Food Recipes are age appropriate for those babies who are 8 months and older. Some of these Stage 2 Homemade Baby Food Recipes are also appropriate for babies who began to eat solid foods at 6 months old. On this page you will also find more recipes suitable for those babies who are currently eating "Stage 2" baby foods.

What are "Stage 2" baby food recipes? 8-10 Months - Time to explore! Bring on some spices and the softly mashed, or chopped into fine pieces of fruits, vegetables, meats, pasta and dairy such as yogurt and cheeses. Pasta, veggies, and fruit should all be soft cooked and possibly mashed with a fork or masher. (Bananas need only be mashed.) Raw fruits are often introduced at this stage. Meats and proteins such as egg yolk, should be cooked and pureed or chopped into small soft bits. If offering Tofu, you need not cook it first. Ensure dairy offered is easily manageable. Remember, baby will not have molars until sometime around the 14-18 month age range. Foods should be easily mashed between the gums. What does Stage 2 Baby Food Mean Anyway? Stage 2 Baby Food is a term that applies to baby foods that are more thick and textured. Stage 2 Baby Foods also have ingredients that are suited to babies who are over 7-8 months of age such as meats and spices. Some parents define Stage 2 baby foods as baby foods that are chunky. These foods should be appropriate for babies who are beginning to master "chewing" their foods and who have completely lost any form of the tongue thrust reflex. The commercial Stage 2 Baby Foods in this range are targeted to babies who are between the ages of 7-8 to 10 months old. Stage 2 baby foods are foods that are still the lowest on the allergy scale however at this stage, some dairy and/or wheat products are often introduced. Stage 2 baby foods are typically those foods that are more fibrous, a bit more acidic and contain a higher amount of protein. These foods should be well tolerated and digested by this point. Some of these foods include, lentils, blueberries and egg yolks.

Stage 2 Homemade Baby Food Recipes - Cereals 30 Minute Cream of Grain Cereal 1/4 c. freshly ground brown rice or millet with honey or molasses cinnamon (leave out honey for under 1yr and molasses is optional.) pure vanilla extract

1 c. almond milk, sweetened - use plain water for infants.. 1/4 c. raisins (optional) 1. Put almond milk or water, ground grain and raisins in a pot. 2. Bring just to the boiling point, stirring constantly, until the grain flour has absorbed the liquid. 3. Turn off the heat and cover the pot. 4. Put the pot over a double boiler on a low simmer for 20-30 minutes. (or simply turn burner down to low and simmer) Optional: Add sliced bananas, sliced strawberries, blueberries, peaches and/or nut milk (consult your pediatrician about the use of nut milk prior to using it.). From: keat.com Rice Breakfast Pudding 1/2 cup (Brown/or Jasmine) Rice (grind to barley size - don't grind if serving to a Toddler ) 2 cups water 1/4 cup apples sliced into small dices or slivers 1/4 cup raisins (optional) 1/8 cup brown sugar (optional) 2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp ginger 1. Combine all of the above ingredients in a medium saucepan. 2. Cook over medium-low heat for 30 minutes or until rice is soft, fragrant and a bit soupy 3. Stir 1/8 cup milk into the rice, keep on heat for 10 more minutes. Keep a close watch to ensure that the consistency remains soupy but not pasty. 4. Stir frequently to stop sticking to the pot and add more milk or water if necessary. 5. Serve warm then transfer remaining portion to the fridge. Pastina and Bananas (8months+) 1. 2 tablespoons Prince Pastina (little tiny star shaped pastas **wheat based) 2. 1 whole fresh banana) 3. Prepare pastina as directed for hot cereal. Do not add milk. Stir in banana and serve. Add formula or breast milk as desired (1 serving) **A few sources do say to not introduce wheat until after 1, 2 or even 3 years old. The majorities of sources however indicate and agree that wheat may be introduced around the age of 8-9 months old. It is best to wait to introduce wheat until you are certain that your infant has no reactions to rice, oats or barley. Consult your babys pediatrician. For More Information About Homemade Baby Cereal, visit Our Homemade Baby Cereal FAQ and visit our Homemade Baby Cereal Recipes page for more recipes.

Stage 2 Homemade Baby Food Recipes - Fruits Are you wondering about Juice for Your Baby? Read our article to find out about juice and the role it may or may not play in a baby's diet.

FRUITY COMBOS - mix these combos into Yogurt or Cereal or just mix 'em and serve. You can also cook these together for extra Yum. Learn about feeding baby Yogurt and Cheeses Peachy Sweet Potatoes Apples and Carrots Blueberry, Apple, and Pear Sauce Pears and Bananas Bananas and Blueberries Avocado, Peaches and Cream Cheese Apples and Pears Peaches and Bananas Bananas, Blueberries and Pears Apples and Plums Blueberries and Apples Pears, Peaches and Apples Have you ever Baked Fruits? If not, we highly recommend it. Baked fruits are naturally sweet, soft and oh so very yummy. Baked Apples 6-8months+ 1. Core apple and leave peel on 2. Place a wee bit of butter (if baby is ready for or has had dairy) on the inside of the cored apple (sprinkle a bit of cinnamon in the apple if your desire and if baby is ready for or has had cinnamon) 3. Place in a pan with just enough water to slightly cover apples about an inch of water 4. Bake in a 400-degree oven for 30 minutes or until tender; be sure to check on the water level. 5. Once baked, either cut apple into little bits and serve as a finger food or mash and make applesauce. Blueberries** 8-10 months+ Vitamins: A, C, K, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Sodium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium 1. 1/2 pint of blueberries (fresh or frozen) 2. 1/2 c. water 3. Bring water to a boil. Add blueberries and simmer for 15 minutes until soft. 4. Reserve liquid and use a slotted spoon to transfer blueberries to blender/processor/mixer and puree. 5. If needed, add some of the liquid to blueberries. 6. Add cereal (if desired) to thicken up *You can save the liquid to serve as juice or to blend in with cereals etc.. ** Visit the Blueberry Baby Foods page to get more recipes but most importantly, learn why blueberries are fine prior to 12 months of age. Blueberry Banana Yogurt 8-10 months+ 1 cup blueberries 1 whole banana 1 cup plain yogurt 2 tablespoons wheat germ For Babies: Use 1 cup of your already made blueberry puree OR Microwave the blueberries just until the juices start to run, about 30 seconds. Place the banana, yogurt and blueberries in a blender and puree until smooth.

For Toddlers: Slice the banana. Microwave the blueberries just until the juices start to run, about 30 seconds. Place a little yogurt in a dish and top with banana slices, blueberries, wheat germ and serve. This will make 2-3 servings. Kiwi 8-10 months+* Vitamins: A, C, K, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium 1. Peel ripe kiwi 2. Puree or mash with a fork - add cereal (if desired) to thicken and achieve a smooth, thin consistency.Kiwi does not need to be cooked and it should not need to be de-seeded as it is typically introduced at an age where baby can tolerate raw fruits and a bit of texture. *Kiwi is high in Vitamin C and is also acidic, you may wish to wait to introduce it when baby is 10 months or older. Back to Top Melons (cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon) 8-10 months+ Vitamins: A, C, K, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium 1. 1/4 cup sliced, soft, seedless melon, rind removed 2. Puree or mash with a fork - add cereal (if desired) to thicken up the melon achieve a smooth, thin consistency. **Melon does not need to be cooked as it is typically introduced at an age where baby can tolerate raw fruits. Melon may be steamed to tender and then mashed if you prefer without harming it.

Easy, fresh & nutritious homemade baby cereal recipes - your baby will love it! Leave the pasty boxed stuff behind and make these tasty Homemade Baby Cereal Recipes for your baby. There's nothing as healthy or as wholesome and fresh as homemade baby cereals made from whole grains. While the recommended age for starting solid foods is generally 6 months of age, many babies start solids between 4 and 6 months of age. These recipes are appropriate for this age range. Did you know that baby's first food does not have to be a commercial infant rice cereal? Many pediatric resources are acknowledging the fact that avocado, banana and sweet potato make great first foods for baby. Dr. Frank Greer, from the Committee on Nutrition, American Academy of Pediatrics recently noted in an interview that "Rice cereal has traditionally been the first complementary food given to American infants, but Complementary foods introduced to infants should be based on their nutrient requirements and the nutrient density of foods, not on traditional practices that have no scientific basis." "Rice cereal is a less than perfect choice for the first complementary food given to infants. Rice cereal is low in protein and high in carbohydrates. It is often mixed with varying amounts of breast milk or formula. Although most brands of formula now have added iron, zinc, and vitamins, iron is poorly absorbedonly about 7.8% of intake is incorporated into red blood cells." - Read Rice Cereal Can Wait to learn about the new thinking from the AAP. "For most babies it does not matter what the first solid foods are. By tradition, single-grain cereals are usually introduced first. However, there is no medical evidence that introducing solid foods in any particular order has an advantage for your baby." Source: 09/2008 - Starting Solid Foods (Copyright 2008 American Academy of Pediatrics) Always use brown rice when making homemade cereals, it's just more nutritious! What type of Rice do I use for Homemade Baby Rice Cereals?

The type of brown rice that you would want to use for cereals would ideally be a short-grain brown rice. Shortgrain rice cooks up more soft than does long or medium grain rice. The only caveat is that it may become sticky and "pasty" when pureed so keep an watch over the rice when cooking and pureeing/blending it. You may use a blend of any type of rice that you like; ensure that it is whole grain however. Brown jasmine rice and plain brown rice make a nice blend for cereals as do basmati and plain brown rice. If you find that your baby does not like this blend, then consider switching to the plain brown rice type until the palate has become used to solid foods Whisk Whisk Whisk ... For less clumping and more smoothness. Rice Cereal using "powder" Ingredients: 1/4 c. rice powder (brown rice ground in blender or food processor) 1 cup water Directions:

1. Bring liquid to boil in saucepan. Add the rice powder while stirring constantly. 2. Simmer for 10 minutes, whisking constantly, mix in formula or breast milk and fruits if desired 3. Serve warm.

Rice Cereal with whole rice Ingredients: 1/2 c. rice (brown rice, basmati or jasmine) 1 cup water Directions: 1. Bring liquid to boil in saucepan. Add the rice and stir. 2. Simmer for 20 minutes or according to package directions; stir 1/2 way through cooking time. 3. When rice is finished and a bit cool, add it in 1/2 cup measurements with liquid of your choice (breastmilk, formula, water etc.) and puree as needed. Keep a watch as you puree so that the rice does not turn into paste! 4. Serve warm mixed with fruits, veggies and liquid of your choice. May be frozen but upon thawing, may turn a bit rubbery.

Oatmeal Cereal Ingredients: 1/4 cup of ground oats (do NOT use instant or Quick Cook), ground in blender or food processor 3/4 cup - 1 cup water Directions: 1. Bring liquid to boil in saucepan. Add the oatmeal powder while stirring constantly. 2. Simmer for 10 minutes, whisking constantly until cooked. 3. Mix in formula or breast milk and fruits if desired and serve warm.

Barley Cereal Ingredients: 1/4 cup ground barley (barley ground in blender or food processor) 1 cup water Directions:

1. Bring liquid to a boil. Add the barley and simmer for 10 minutes, whisking constantly 2. Mix in formula or breast milk or juice and add fruits if desired 3. Serve warm

Many of our Visitors have suggested that using 2 cups of water per 1/4 cup "cereal powder" has worked well to create a really liquid cereal.

Do I Need to Cook the Rice "Powder" Before I Serve it?

You need to cook the rice-oatmeal-barley powder prior to serving because when you make your own cereal(s) you are taking a whole grain and grinding it into a powder. This powder should be cooked because the grains were not cooked prior to your processing them into a powder. This powder would not be easily digested if left in its "raw" state. Why Doesn't Commercial Baby Cereal Need to be Cooked?

The reason that you don't "cook" commercial baby cereal is that commercial baby cereal is precooked and then dehydrated. Commercial baby cereal is most often made from grain that has been processed and then milled into a flour. You notice this difference when you dump out some "flakes" of commercial cereal(s) and also when you mix up some commercial cereal and find a thin pasty substance in the bowl. Can Homemade Baby Cereal be Stored in the Refrigerator?

Homemade Baby Cereal may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 72 hours maximum. As with thawing frozen homemade baby cereal, you may find the texture changes. Simply warm the baby cereal and then add liquid of your choice, as needed, to reconstitute to a texture your baby prefers. Can Homemade Baby Cereals be Frozen?

Yes, you may freeze homemade cereal. You would use the ice cube tray method (or whatever method of freezing you currently use) as you would for other baby food purees. It tends to be easier to grind and then store the uncooked grains and simply cook a day's worth as you go. It often happens that when you thaw the cereal, it becomes rubbery and does not reconstitute well. We do hear from parents who have great luck in freezing cereal. You may want to try freezing a few portions and see how it works for you.

Storing Grains You Have Ground for Homemade Baby Cereal:

Grains that you have ground should be stored in an airtight container in a dry area of your cupboard or in the

refrigerator. Whole grains may be stored for several months in a cool dry place. If the temperature becomes extremely warm in your home, you may wish to store the grains in the refrigerator. Milled whole grains, such as rice flour, whole wheat flour, oat flour and the like, should be stored in an air tight container and preferably in your refrigerator. You can store them in a cool dry place however ensure that you check on the status of the grains if you use them infrequently. Since these are whole grain flours, the natural oils that come from the grain may become rancid without refrigeration. When purchasing any type of milled whole grain, it's always best to buy smaller quantities to ensure that your whole grains are used prior to them going rancid. The same "rules" apply for rice powder or oat powder, barley powder etc. that you have ground (milled) for your homemade baby cereal. You should store it in an air tight container, in a cool dry place but preferably in the refrigerator if your home is warm. For More Information About Homemade Baby Cereal, Visit Our Homemade Baby Cereal FAQ or individual grain pages found below: Grains for Cereals Rice Oatmeal Barley Buckwheat/Kasha Kamut Millet Pasta Quinoa

Baked Apple Cereal Ingredients: 1 apple (macintosh, gala, braeburn) 1/4 cup ground oats 3/4 cup of water Directions: 1. Peel, core and cut a small apple into small dices 2. Place in a pan with 1/4 c ground oats and 3/4 c water 3. Bring mixture to a slow boil. Simmer covered, checking frequently, until apples are soft and oatmeal is cooked. 4. Be sure to stir and mash while cooking 5. Mix in formula or breast milk or juice to thin if needed - puree if necessary (sprinkle a bit of cinnamon in the cereal if your desire and if baby is ready for or has had cinnamon).

Mixed Grain Cereals and More 30 Minute Cream of Grain Cereal Ingredients: 1/4 c. freshly ground brown rice or millet with honey or molasses cinnamon (leave out honey for under 1yr and molasses is optional.)

pure vanilla extract 1 c. almond milk, sweetened - use plain water for infants.. 1/4 c. raisins (optional) Directions: 1. Put almond milk or water, ground grain and raisins in a pot. 2. Bring just to the boiling point, stirring constantly, until the grain flour has absorbed the liquid. 3. Turn off the heat and cover the pot. 4. Put the pot over a double boiler on a low simmer for 20-30 minutes. (or simply turn burner down to low and simmer) Optional: Add sliced bananas, sliced strawberries, blueberries, peaches and/or nut milk (consult your pediatrician about the use of nut milk prior to using it.). From: http://www.keats.com/news/w96meal.html Oatie Banana Cereal Ingredients: 1/4 cup oatmeal (rolled or ground) 1/2 cup water or milk 1/3 ripe banana 1/4 cup milk (formula may be used here) Directions: 1. Combine oatmeal and 1/2 cup of water or milk. Bring to a boil. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until liquid is mostly absorbed. 2. Remove from heat and cover; let stand for 5 minutes. 3. Mash banana, and add remaining milk or formula, mixing thoroughly. Stir the banana-milk mixture into the cooked cereal. Rice Breakfast Pudding Ingredients: 1/2 cup (Brown/or Jasmine) Rice (grind to barley size - don't grind if serving to a Toddler ) 2 cups water 1/4 cup apples sliced into small dices or slivers 1/4 cup raisins (optional) 1/8 cup brown sugar (optional) 2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp ginger Directions: 1. Combine all of the above ingredients in a medium saucepan. 2. Cook over medium-low heat for 30 minutes or until rice is soft, fragrant and a bit soupy 3. Stir 1/8 cup milk into the rice, keep on heat for 10 more minutes. Keep a close watch to ensure that the consistency remains soupy but not pasty. 4. Stir frequently to stop sticking to the pot and add more milk or water if necessary. 5. Serve warm then transfer remaining portion to the fridge.

Pastina and Bananas Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Prince Pastina (little tiny star shaped pastas **wheat based) 1 whole fresh banana Directions: Prepare pastina as directed for hot cereal. Do not add milk. Stir in banana and serve. Add formula or breast milk as desired (1 serving) **A few sources do say to not introduce wheat until after 1, 2 or even 3 years old. The majorities of sources however indicate and agree that wheat may be introduced around the age of 8-9 months old. It is best to wait to introduce wheat until you are certain that your infant has no reactions to rice, oats or barley. Consult your babys pediatrician. Visit Wheat for Your Baby topic to learn more about Wheat, Gluten and Babies

Fresh and Simple Fruit Recipes for Homemade Baby Food Try these simple and tasty fruit baby food recipes. Your baby will love the taste of fresh fruits and you will love how quick and easy it is to make these fruit recipes. A word about cooking fruits for baby - Most pediatric sources recommend cooking fruits that will be fed to an infant until that infant is about 8 months old. Bananas and avocado are a few of the exceptions. For infants who start solids prior to 6 months old, cooking fruits is really a good idea. Cooking fruits breaks them down thus enabling easier digestion in an immature tummy. An older baby will be better able to handle the fibers and sugars of raw fruits than will the baby who is younger and just starting on solids. Apples/Applesauce (Use Gala, Braeburn, Rome or Macs) Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium This recipe is written so that you may use any amount of apples you wish. We recommend Fuji, Gala, Braeburn or Macintosh Directions: 1. Peel, core and cut apple into slices/chunks 2. Place slices or chunks into a pan with just enough water to slightly cover apples and boil/steam until tender; be sure to check on the water level and stir 3. Apples may be mashed with a potato masher to achieve a smooth applesauce consistency. If your masher will not achieve a puree type of consistency, then follow steps below: 4. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the apples 5. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 6. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin puree - add cereal (if desired) to thicken.Ask your pediatrician about adding some cinnamon for new tastes.

You may also buy an "Adult" jar of Natural applesauce from your local grocers. Make sure you buy Natural Applesauce however. Read the labels if you are unsure. The only ingredients should be apples and water or just apples. A few companies may add ascorbic acid (vitamin C) or citric acid to their Natural Applesauce; this is fine. If your baby is constipated, you might also use the juice that is leftover from the cooking to mix into cereals, or with water in a bottle or sippy cup.

Purees

You may use breast milk or formula to thin out any puree instead of water. Learn more at Thinning Baby

Avocado (yes, avocado is a fruit.) Vitamins: A, C, Niacin, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium 1 ripe avocado Directions: Peel and take out the pit of a ripe avocado - do not cook Cut meat out and mash with a fork There should be no need to use a machine as just like bananas, avocados have a very soft consistency and texture. Avocados do not need to be cooked.

How to Select an Avocado - When selecting an Avocado, you want a dark green color with bumpy texture. The fruit should be firm yet yielding when gently pushed. When an avocado is sliced in half, the flesh color should be a green that gently transforms into a buttery yellow around the pit. Visit our Avocado Topic for more recipes and information

Apple Cado (4)6-8months+ Ingredients: 1/2 of a peeled and pitted avocado 1/4 cup applesauce Directions: Mash the avocado half. Mix mashed avocado with applesauce (homemade or natural) and serve.

Bananas Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Selenium, Magnesium, Calcium 1 ripe banana Directions: 1. Peel ripe banana - do not cook 2. Place banana in a food processor/food mill or blender and puree You can also mash the banana in a bowl using a regular fork heat in microwave for 25 seconds prior to

mashing for extra softness Add formula/breast milk or water to thin or add cereal (if desired) to thicken up. Bananas and banana puree may be frozen. Using a bit of lemon juice will help to prevent the browning of a banana (and most other fruits) when freezing it. It is the citric acid or the ascorbic acid that aids in the preservation of fruits. The exposure to oxygen and the enzymes in a banana (and most other fruits) are what cause it to go from green to yellow, and then brown to black, as it ripens. A blackish or brownish banana is not necessarily rotten or bad.

Banana Applesauce Mush Ingredients: 2 apples (gala, braeburn or mac) 1 ripe banana Directions: 1. Peel, core and cut apples into slices/chunks. 2. Place slices or chunks into a pan with just enough water to slightly cover apples 3. Boil until tender; be sure to check on the water level. Apples may be mashed with a potato masher to achieve a smooth applesauce consistency or you can puree in a blender or food processor. 4. Peel a ripe banana and mash in a bowl with a fork (heating in the microwave for approximately 20 seconds will soften the banana up if needed). Add applesauce to the banana and sprinkle with wheat germ* or crushed cheerios* Puree if necessary but mashing with a potato masher will typically get this mix smooth *8months+

Banana Cado Ingredients: 1/2 of a peeled and pitted avocado 1 small ripe banana Directions: Mash the avocado half and mash the banana Mix mashed avocado with banana & serve

Pears Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium Ingredients: 2 ripe pears (Bartlett, Red or Comice) Directions: Steam gently until tender if baby is between 4-6 months old otherwise peel & mash - removing the seed portion Peel and cut into chunks so as to avoid the little seed portion. Or Cut the pears in half (no need to peel unless your little one has issues with digestion) and cut out the seed/core portion then dice the pear halves. Peel and cut into chunks so as to avoid the little seed portion. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a shallow pot with a steamer basket insert. Add the pears to the steamer basket in the pot and then steam until soft and tender. You may also add the pear dices to wee bit of boiling water and steam them this way if you do not have a steamer basket. Using a scant amount of water ensures that you are not boiling them. Place in a blender/food processor and puree until smooth. You may be able to just use a fork too. Use the leftover cooking water if needed but Pears tend to be very runny and watery without adding liquid. Add some baby cereal to thicken if needed.

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Apples & Pears Ingredients: 1 apple cored & peeled 1 pear cored & peeled Directions: Dice apple & pear and simmer together until tender. Mash or puree as needed.

Baked Apples Macintosh Apples - any number you desire Directions: 1. Core apple and leave peel on 2. Place a wee bit of butter (if baby is ready for or has had dairy) on the inside of the cored apple (sprinkle a bit of cinnamon in the apple if your desire and if baby is ready for or has had cinnamon) 3. Place in a pan with just enough water to slightly cover apples about an inch of water 4. Bake in a 400-degree oven for 30 minutes or until tender; be sure to check on the water level. 5. Once baked, either cut apple into little bits and serve as a finger food or mash as directed above in the Apples/Applesauce recipe.

Apple Peach Banana Ingredients: 1 peach pit & peel 1 apple cored & peeled ripe banana 1/4 cup of water Directions: 1. Dice apple & peach and simmer together in a small pot with water until tender. 2. Mash the banana into the apple & peach mix and then puree as needed.

Apricot Puree (using dried, un-sulphured apricots) Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Calcium Ingredients:

1 pound dried apricots 2 c. white grape juice or apple juice. Plain water is ok but the puree may be a bit bitter. Some babies actually like a bitter taste however. Consider using water or juice if you disagree with the juices or if baby cannot have juice. You can always mix in another fruit such as peaches or bananas and leave out the juice entirely. Directions: 1. Bring liquid and fruit to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. 2. Reserve any left over liquid to use for the puree 3. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 4. Add the reserved liquid as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin puree or 5. Add cereal (if desired) to thicken up 6. Note: puree will not freeze solid, but into slightly soft/slightly frozen cubes.

Are you wondering about Juice for Your Baby? Read our article to find out about juice and the role it may or may not play in a baby's diet.

Mango* Creamy Puree Vitamins: A (1262 IU in one cup.), C, E, K, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium, Sodium If your infant is currently not eating yogurt and/or you do not wish to use any juice, simply peel, de-seed and mash the mango with some water until the proper consistency for Your Infant is achieved. Ingredients: 1 Ripe Mango Plain or Vanilla Yogurt OR Water, Apple or Pear Juice Directions: Peel, seed and mash mango until smooth Add Yogurt or Water or Juice until the proper consistency for Your Infant is achieved. *Mango does not need to be cooked as it is typically introduced at an age where baby can tolerate raw fruits. Mango may be steamed to tender and then mashed if you prefer without harming it. HINT. You may use mango as a great Baby Finger Foods. Simply peel, de-seed and then cut into dices or chunks that are manageable for your baby. You may wish to coat the mango pieces with "cheerio dust", wheat germ or another cereal "dust" to help baby easily pick up the bits.

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Papaya Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Calcium Ingredients: 1 ripe papaya Directions: To prepare a papaya (ensure it is fully ripened.), peel, de-seed and then mash into a consistency your baby will tolerate. Some parents who have infants with sensitive tummies will give fruits a gentle steaming to help break down the sugars and fibers for easier digestion. If you feel this is the case for your infant, chunk the papaya and then steam for 5-10 minutes until very soft. Ideas for serving Papaya to your Baby: Mash and mix with banana and avocado Make a Papaya, banana, yogurt smoothie Mix papaya into chicken and rice for a tropical chicken dinner

Plums, Peaches and Nectarines too Plums Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium Ingredients: 5 ripe plums Directions: Peel, pit and cut into chunks then steam until tender in a scant amount of water. Puree using the leftover cooking liquid. You may need to mix in another fruit as plum pure has a tendency to be rather tart and/or bitter.

Peaches Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium Steam or Bake or Blanch Peaches - these methods work for nectarines, plums and pears as well. We HIGHLY recommend giving baked peaches a try at least once. You will find they are more tasty when baked. Why not try baking for all fruits? Steam Peaches - Method 1 1. Scrub fruit clean and carve an X into 1 side of the fruit 2. Place X side down in a pan with an inch of water 3. Bring water to a boil and steam until soft and tender 4. Peel skin from fruit and remove pits and/or seeds 5. move to step #6 below Steam Peaches - Method 2 1. Peel fruit 2. Pit the peach 3. Cut the peach into dices 4. Steam until soft and tender then 5. move to step #6 Bake 1. Halve the fruit and place "open" side down in a pan filled with 1 inch of water 2. Bake at 400F until soft and tender and/or puckering of the skin appears. 3. Peel skin from fruit and remove pits and/or seeds (you may also leave the skin on your baked peaches - the skin may simply melt into the fruit.) 4. move to step #6 "Blanch" 1. Bring 3 or 4 cups of water to a rolling boil 2. Add cleansed peaches or nectarines to the boiling water and boil the fruit for 3-5 minutes 3. Remove fruit to a bowl of cold water, allow to cool for 2 minutes 4. Slip off the skins and then take out the pit 5. move to step #6 Moving to Step 6 6. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the fruits 7. Peel off skin if you have not done this already. Place fruit(s) into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 8. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin puree 9. Add cereal (if desired) to thicken up. (prints all 4 methods)

Peachy Mangos

Ingredients: 3 peaches 1 mango Directions: 1. Peel, pit and cut peaches into chunks 2. Peel, de seed and cut mango into chunks 3. Steam fruits together gently until tender if needed 4. Place in a blender/food processor and puree until smooth or mash with a fork and let baby try to use a spoon or her fingers.

Plums with Applesauce Ingredients: 2 plums 1 large apple Directions: 1. Peel, pit and cut plums into chunks 2. Peel, core & dice apple 3. Simmer plums & apple together in a saucepan until soft & tender Mash or puree as needed add a splash of apple juice if too bitter

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Prunes Vitamins: A, C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium Ingredients: Dried prunes - any amount you desire - try 2 cups full Directions: 1. Soak dried prunes in warm water until they plump up or steam gently. 2. Once plump and tender, toss into food processor or blender and begin to puree.

3. Add liquid without sparing any. Prunes tend to become a pasty gluey consistency when pureed and the more water you add, the easier it is to puree to a texture your baby will tolerate. Note: Prune puree, like apricot puree, will not freeze solid, but will freeze into slightly soft/slightly frozen cubes. Prunes are great to help babies with constipation. Try this for babies from 4 months old +.

Pumpkin Vitamins: A (12230 IU in 1 cup.), C, K, Folate, Niacin Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium, Iron Ingredients: 1 medium sized sugar/baking pumpkin (about 5-7 pounds) Directions: 1. Cut sugar pumpkin (the kind meant to be baked and eaten.) in half, scoop out seeds 2. Place an inch of water in a baking pan, then place the halves "face" down in the pan. Check on water level while baking 3. Bake in a 375-425 F degree oven for 40 minutes to 1 hour, or until the shell/skin puckers and halves feel soft then scoop squash meat out of the shell 4. Place pumpkin "meat" into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 5. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency. 6. You can also peel the pumpkin, scoop out the seeds and then cut into chunks and boil/steam until tender (like when boiling potatoes for mashed potatoes).

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Pumpkin & Pears Ingredients 1 ripe pear, peeled & cored & diced 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned) Directions: Mash the pear and then mix in the pumpkin puree if needed.

Peary Pumpkin Peaches Ingredients: cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned) 1 pear, peeled & cored & diced 1peach peeled, pitted & diced Directions: Combine all food (steam pear and peach together if need be) and mash or puree if needed.

You may also buy a can of pumpkin from your local grocers. Make sure you buy Pumpkin and NOT Pumpkin Pie mix however. Learn more about Cooking with Pumpkin

Blueberries** (Read our Blueberry Information page) Vitamins: A, C, K, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Sodium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium Ingredients: 1/2 pint of blueberries (fresh or frozen) 1/2 c. water Directions: 1. Bring water to a boil. Add blueberries and simmer for 15 minutes until soft. 2. Reserve liquid and use a slotted spoon to transfer blueberries to blender/processor/mixer and puree. 3. If needed, add some of the liquid to blueberries. Add cereal (if desired) to thicken up *You can save the liquid to serve as juice or to blend in with cereals etc.. Serve raw and pureed or raw and smooshed if preferred.

Yummy Blueberry Applesauce

Ingredients: 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries 2 medium apples Directions: 1. Peel, core & dice apples. 2. In a saucepan, add blueberries and apples with 1 cup of water. 3. Bring water to a boil then simmer for 15 minutes until soft. Puree or mash as needed. Add yogurt or cereal or both for a yummy breakfast, lunch or snack.

Blueberry Peach Surprise Ingredients: 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries 2 peaches cup oatmeal Directions: 1. Peel, pit & dice peaches. 2. In a saucepan, add blueberries, oatmeal and peaches with 1 1/2 cup of water. 3. Bring water to a boil then simmer for 15 minutes until soft and oatmeal has absorbed all the liquid. Stir frequently. Puree or mash as needed. Add yogurt or cereal or both for a yummy breakfast, lunch or snack. *The color of this will look very icky*

Blueberry Banana Yogurt Ingredients:

1 cup blueberries 1 whole banana 1 cup plain yogurt 2 tablespoons wheat germ For Babies: Use 1 cup of your already made blueberry puree OR Microwave the blueberries just until the juices start to run, about 30 seconds. Place the banana, yogurt and blueberries in a blender and puree until smooth. For Toddlers: Slice the banana. Microwave the blueberries just until the juices start to run, about 30 seconds. Place a little yogurt in a dish and top with banana slices, blueberries, wheat germ and serve. This will make 2-3 servings.

Learn about Introducing Yogurt to your baby.

Kiwi Vitamins: A, C, K, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium Ingredients: 1 ripe kiwi Directions: 1. Peel ripe kiwi 2. Puree or mash with a fork - add cereal (if desired) to thicken and achieve a smooth, thin consistency. Kiwi does not need to be cooked and it should not need to be de-seeded as it is typically introduced at an age where baby can tolerate raw fruits and a bit of texture. *Kiwi is high in Vitamin C and is also acidic, you may wish to wait to introduce it when baby is 10 months or older. Visit our Kiwi Page for more recipes and information about Kiwi.

Kiwi Banana Tango Ingredients: 1 ripe kiwi peeled & diced 1/2 ripe banana peeled 1/2 ripe mango peeled & diced Directions:

Mash all fruits together and then blend or puree as needed. Make it Creamy Kiwi Banana Tango by adding yogurt and/or cereal.

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Melons (cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon) Vitamins: A, C, K, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium Ingredients: 1/4 cup sliced, soft, seedless melon, rind removed Directions: Puree or mash with a fork - add cereal (if desired) to thicken up the melon achieve a smooth, thin consistency. **Melon does not need to be cooked as it is typically introduced at an age where baby can tolerate raw fruits. Melon may be steamed to tender and then mashed if you prefer without harming it.

More Fun Fruit Baby Food Recipes

Fruity-Pops Here are some ideas to get you making healthy teething/ice pops for your older baby or child. Visit our Introducing Yogurt to Baby page to learn about yogurt in your baby's diet. Buy Ice Pop Trays and offer these healthy pops to your toddlers and older kids as well. Cooling Baby Banana Yogurt Pops Ingredients: 1 cup banana puree (or 2 very ripe bananas) 1 cup plain yogurt Directions: Blend and/or puree until you have a smooth liquid

Pour mixture into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Pop out a cube or 2 and add to a baby safe feeder. Viola. Healthy Baby Pops. Variations: Blueberry Yogurt Pops Peach Yogurt Pops Papaya Yogurt Pops

Mango Pops Ingredients: 3/4 peach nectar or plain water 2 1/2 cups frozen mango pieces 1 16 ounce container of plain yogurt Directions: Blend and/or puree until you have a smooth liquid Pour mixture into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Pop out a cube or 2 and add to a baby safe feeder. Viola. Baby Pops.

Apple Ice - Yummy for Toddlers Ingredients: 5 cups peeled and sliced Granny Smith or Macintosh apples 1 cup water 3/4 cup apple juice (100% juice only.) 1 drip lemon juice Directions: 1.) In large saucepot, simmer apples, water, and juice until apples are tender -- about 20 minutes. Once tender, transfer to blender or food processor and add 1 drip lemon juice. Puree mixture until smooth 2.) Transfer mixture to large freezable container and freeze until almost solid. Add mixture back to the food processor of blender and puree until chunks break up and mixture is fluffy. Refreeze until firm to make Apple Ice for Toddlers 3) Skip #2 and simply freeze mixture in ice cube trays and then pop out a cube or 2 and add to a baby safe feeder. **Some babies enjoy holding and manipulating ice cubes on a hot day. If you don't mind the mess, let baby have the "ice pops" while sitting in the highchair**

Tofu-Fruit Mush Ingredients: 4oz firm tofu 1 ripe banana, peeled 1/4-cup (frozen) blueberries, peaches or *strawberries 3 tbs of Wheat Germ Directions: 1. Puree all ingredients in a blender or food processor until a fluffy type texture is achieved. 2. Serve by spoon or spread on toast. This mix is GREAT for learning how to spoon feed. This mix will "cling" to the spoon and help eliminate baby's frustration with food falling off the spoon. You may also freeze this mix and call it "Ice Cream"

Vegetable Baby Food Recipes for Making Homemade Baby Food Vegetable Purees that your baby will Love.

These simple and easy Vegetable baby food recipes are for Homemade Baby Veggie Pures. Tasty Homemade Baby Food Vegetable Pures and Baby Vegetable Recipes, there's nothing as yummy, healthy, wholesome and fresh as homemade baby veggie pures. Your baby will love the tastes of fresh veggies. You will love the ease and simplicity of the vegetable recipes. Fresh Vegetable Baby Food Puree Recipes Avocado Avocado is actually a fruit - you will find this recipe double posted to our Fruit Recipes page Vitamins: A, C, Niacin, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium 1 Ripe Avocado Directions: 1. Peel and take out the pit of a ripe avocado - do not cook 2. Cut meat out and mash with a fork 3. There should be no need to use a machine as just like bananas, avocados have a very soft consistency and texture. Avocados do not need to be cooked. You may use Breast Milk or Formula to thin out any puree instead of water. Learn more at Thinning Baby Purees

How to Select an Avocado When selecting an Avocado, you want a dark green color with bumpy texture. The fruit should be firm yet yielding when gently pushed. When an avocado is sliced in half, the flesh color should be a green that gently transforms into a buttery yellow around the pit. Visit our Avocado Topic for More Information

Green Beans

(this method may be used for Peas as well)*

Vitamins: A, C, K, Niacin, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Sodium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium Ingredients: 1 pound fresh or 16 ounces of frozen green beans Directions: 1. If using Fresh Beans, snap the ends off the beans and wash the beans. If using Fresh Peas, open the pods and scrape out the peas from the pod. If using frozen of either Peas or Green Beans, cook according to package directions. 2. Place fresh beans into a steamer basket in a pan with a just enough water to slightly show through in the

basket. 3. Steam until very tender; be sure to check on the water level. 4. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the beans. 5. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. It is best to use the setting that makes the finest liquid purees - green bean and pea skins are rather difficult to completely puree. ***Using a blender rather than a food processor or stick mixer might be better as well. *** 6. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency 7. You may wish to push the green beans (or peas) through a sieve or mesh strainer to get rid of any remaining skins.

Squash (winter like acorn, butternut or hubbard) (nutrient info for squash of all types may be found at "Squash for Baby Food Recipes" page) Ingredients: 1 or 2 medium to large sized winter squash (or as many as will fit in your oven.) Directions: 1. Cut acorn, hubbard, or butternut squash in half, scoop out seeds 2. Place an inch of water in a baking pan, then place squash halves "face" down in the pan. Check on water level while baking 3. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 40 minutes or until the shell/skin puckers and halves feel soft then scoop squash meat out of the shell 4. Place squash "meat" into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 5. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency. 6. You can also peel the squash, scoop out the seeds and then cut into chunks and boil/steam until tender (like when boiling potatoes for mashed potatoes) then follow steps 4 and 5

Yams/Sweet Potato Learn Why a Yam is NOT a Yam. Vitamins: A (24,877 mg ), C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Sodium, Selenium, Phosphorous, Magnesium, Calcium Carrie wrote to tell us how she bakes her Sweet Potatoes "I baked for about 45 minutes at 410 F on the lower rack of the oven. The taters were so yummy. Here's my tip, run them under water and then poke holes with a fork then run under water again then wrap and bake. The water helps cook them - works with baking white potatoes too. - 20 March 2008 Ingredients:

2 or 3 medium sized sweet potatoes Directions: 1. Wash and poke holes in sweet potato with fork then wrap sweet potatoes in tin foil - do not peel for baking (you can also do this in the microwave - only use plastic wrap and cook for 8 minutes on high or until tender I recommend that you can skip the plastic wrap and simply wet the sweet potatoes and move to #2!) 2. Place in a 400 degree oven and bake for 30-60 minutes or until soft. 3. or 4. Peel washed and cleansed sweet potatoes and cut into small chunks 5. Place chunks into a pan with just enough water to slightly cover potato 6. "Steam" boil until tender, be sure to check on the water level. 7. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the sweet potatoes 8. If you have baked your sweet potato, remove skins and use liquid from your preferred source 9. Place sweet potato into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 10. Add the reserved water or other liquid as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency

Squash (summer) (nutrient info for squash of all types may be found at our "Squash" page) Ingredients: Yellow and/or zucchini squash - as many as you want Directions: 1. Choose yellow squash or zucchini that are somewhat small in diameter, as these are the most tender. 2. Wash squash thoroughly 3. Cut into small slices or chunks. Do not remove skins. (*You may remove skins however an infant over the age of 8 months old should be able to digest squash puree with skins on) 4. Steam until tender then place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 5. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency - you may not need to add water as summer squash tends to be watery enough.

Carrots* Vitamins: A (19,152 IU), C, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Sodium, Phosphorous, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium

Ingredients: 1 pound of fresh carrots (you may also use frozen) Directions: 1. Peel carrots and cut into small chunks 2. Place chunks into a steamer pan with just enough water visible through the steamer basket 3. Steam until tender 4. Do not reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the carrots if baby is under 8 months old as Nitrates may seep into the cooking water 5. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 6. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency *(See Our article on Nitrates)

Garden Vegetable Combo Ingredients: fresh or frozen green beans, peas, summer and/or zucchini squash, thinly sliced pieces of potato, and small pieces of chopped carrots Directions: 1. Combine fresh or frozen green beans and peas, summer and/or zucchini squash and thinly sliced pieces of potato, and small pieces of chopped carrots. 2. Add enough water to just cover the vegetables. 3. Cook until tender, reserving water. 4. Puree vegetables in blender or food processor, 5. Adding reserved water from the vegetables until mixture is of the desired consistency.

Peas (green)

(this method may be used for Green Beans as well)*

Vitamins: A (4533 IU), C, Niacin, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Sodium, Selenium, Phosphorous, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium, Zinc Ingredients: 1 pound of fresh or frozen peas Directions:

1. If using Fresh Peas, open the pods and scrape out the peas from the pod. If using frozen type of either Peas or Green Beans, cook according to package directions. 2. Place fresh peas into a steamer basket in a pan with a just enough water to slightly show through in the basket. 3. Steam until very tender; be sure to check on the water level. 4. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the peas. 5. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. It is best to use the setting that makes the finest liquid purees - green bean and pea skins are rather difficult to completely puree. Using a blender rather than a food processor or stick mixer might be better as well. 6. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency 7. You may wish to push the peas (or green beans) through a sieve or mesh strainer to get rid of any remaining skins.

Why cant I get peas and green beans to puree smooth? If you are using a Food Processor, try the Blender. The Blender seems to work the best for getting Peas into a more fine puree. Peas and green beans are very hard to get pureed into a very fine, smooth consistency. You can put them in a strainer and work out the "skins" if using fresh or you can use frozen for a smoother consistency and minimal effort to work out the "skins". Hint: Once cooked, try immediately plunging your hot peas and green beans into very cold water. For some reason, this helps you puree a thin food with little to zero skins. Perhaps this is due to the cold water stopping the cooking of the veggies. You may also use beans/legumes (kidney beans, lentils, split peas etc..) if your doctor says it is ok for baby's age. Please keep in mind that you will never be able to achieve the consistency equal to that of the baby food that comes in jars. Some parents choose to leave green beans and peas for later introduction, when baby enjoys texture and is able to eat them as Baby Finger Foods.

Asparagus Preparation: Prep the asparagus by holding one asparagus spear with one hand in the middle of the spear and the other hand at the stem. Bend the spear until it snaps. Toss out the lower end that snapped off. Repeat until all your asparagus is "snapped". A few people recommend peeling asparagus - we have done this only once and found it very very time consuming and not worth the trouble. The snapping method works just fine. You may however wish to experiment with both methods. Cooking Asparagus for baby: 1. Fill a large pot (large enough to accommodate a steamer basket) with about 3 inches of water - or until the water peeks through the holes of the steamer basket. 2. Place asparagus, "flower" side up into a steamer basket. Steam asparagus until very tender and mushy or baby food puree. Puree the asparagus when finished steaming.

3. Add liquid as needed to make a puree your baby will tolerate. (For adults, you want to steam it more "al dente" than you do for making baby food) Hint: I suggest that you serve asparagus as a finger food to an older baby. Many people find that asparagus gives them a bit of gassiness and bloating. Also, your baby's urine may change to a very bitter smell and quite possibly change color due to the asparagus.

Beans/Legumes - Dried (lentils, split peas, black beans etc) Visit Lentil Baby Food Recipes for Yummy Lentil Baby Food ideas Ingredients: 1 pound dried beans Directions: 1. Purchase the beans at your food shop 2. Follow basic cooking directions on the package many choose not to soak the beans and the beans cook fine 3. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the beans if you wish to puree them 4. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 5. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin puree 6. Add veggies such as carrots, squash etc if desired. Hint: You may also wish to use a homemade chicken or vegetable stock to cook the beans in. Ensure that no salt is added to the stock.

Broccoli (same method for Cauliflower) Vitamins: A (4533 IU), C, E, K, Niacin, Folate Minerals: Potassium, Sodium, Selenium, Phosphorous, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium Ingredients: 2 heads of fresh broccoli (you may also use frozen) Directions: 1. Wash broccoli under cool water. 2. Chop stems and florets into small pieces; using just the florets will many times yield a smoother puree. Steam until tender.

3. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 4. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency

Eggplant Ingredients: 1 or 2 eggplants Directions: 1. Wash and peel eggplant. 2. Cut into 1 inch pieces and steam until tender and mushy. 3. OR slice eggplant in quarters and bake in a 375 degree oven for approx. 30 minutes or until tender. 4. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 5. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency

When to add Onions, Celery, Leeks, and other "Exotic" Foods to your Baby's food repertoire? Potato (White) Ingredients: White potatoes - try Russet for less starchy and pasty mashed potatoes. Directions: 1. Peel potatoes and cut into small chunks 2. OR bake in the oven 3. Place chunks into a pan with just enough water to slightly cover potato 4. Boil until tender, be sure to check on the water level. 5. Reserve any left over water to use for thinning out the potatoes 6. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. 7. Keep a close watch on the potatoes while you are pureeing as they may turn into wallpaper paste if pureed too much 8. Add the reserved water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency. You may also use breast milk or formula to make the puree if you wish.

Spinach - Steamed** (May be used for Kale and Collards also)

Ingredients: 1 pound of fresh spinach - washed and trimmed if necessary Directions: 1. Thoroughly cleanse fresh spinach and pick out damaged leaves 2. Steam in a pot with a steamer basket insert (water should just peek through the holes of the basket). 3. Leaves will shrink and appear wilted when done. (DO NOT USE COOKING WATER TO PUREE.) 4. Drain and puree spinach in blender or food processor, 5. Add fresh water until mixture is of the desired consistency. **Nitrate risk. Spinach puree MUST be immediately eaten, frozen or stored in the refrigerator. Studies done on spinach and nitrates in particular have shown that with improper storage and preparation, the nitrate levels may actually increase. Proper preparation and immediate use or storing via freezer method will help eliminate this risk in leafy vegetables.

Sauted Spinach** 10 months+ (May be used for Kale and Collards also) Ingredients: 1 pound of fresh spinach - washed and trimmed if necessary Directions: 1. Thoroughly cleanse fresh spinach and pick out damaged leaves 2. Heat olive oil in a frying pan 3. Place spinach in the pan with the heated olive oil and saut until tender. Leaves will shrink and appear wilted when done. 4. Puree spinach in blender or food processor, 5. Add fresh water until mixture is of the desired consistency. Add some spices such as garlic cloves or powder, basil or onion powder if baby is able to have these spices.

**Sweet Potato Custard Ingredients: 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato 1/2 cup mashed banana (about 2 small) 1 cup evaporated skim milk 2 Tbs packed brown sugar

Break from the ordinary for a nice treat!

2 beaten egg yolks (or a cup egg substitute) 1/2 tsp salt Nonstick cooking spray, as needed 1/4 cup raisins (optional) 1 Tbs sugar 1 tsp ground cinnamon Directions: In a medium bowl, stir together sweet potato and banana. Add milk, blending well. Add brown sugar, egg yolks, and salt, mixing thoroughly. Spray a 1-quart casserole with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer sweet potato mixture to casserole dish. Combine raisins, sugar, and cinnamon; sprinkle over top of sweet potato mixture. Bake in a preheated 325 F oven for 40-45 minutes or until a knife inserted near center comes out clean.

Homemade Meat Baby Food Recipes - Nutritious Homemade Meat Baby Foods Are Better than Jarred. Please note: Meats may be introduced anytime between 7-8 months of age with the advice of your pediatrician. Many pediatric authorities, specifically in Canada, the EU and the U.K. recommend meat as one of baby's first solid foods but not as THE first food. In the U.S. the recommendation to start meats earlier than 8 months is also becoming more common. Easy, Fresh & Nutritious Meat Baby Food Recipes that your baby will Love. Try the Beef, Chicken & Vegetable Stock/ Broth recipes too.

You may add veggies or fruits to any of the meat baby food puree recipes as you like. The additions of fruits and/or veggies may make the meats more palatable for baby's first introduction to meats. Beef, Pork or Veal Pure (Basic) Ingredients: 1 cup cold and cooked boneless beef, pork or veal - chopped into chunks no bigger than 1 inch 1/4 c cooking juice (save the juices that you cooked the meat in) or plain water Directions: Place meat chunks in blender or food processor and puree until a powdery mix is formed. Slowly add water and puree further until a smooth consistency is created. Add as much liquid as needed to make a consistency appropriate for your baby. You may add veggies or fruits to this puree as you like.

Chicken Pure (Basic) Ingredients: 1 cup cold and cooked boneless chicken - chopped into no bigger than 1 inch pieces 1/4 c cooking juice (save the juices that you cooked the meat in) or plain water Directions: Place chicken chunks in blender or food processor and puree until a powdery mix is formed. Slowly add water and puree further until a smooth consistency is created. Add as much liquid as needed to make a consistency appropriate for your baby. You may add veggies or fruits to this puree as you like.

Egg Yolks Read the Egg Allergy Information page for more information about egg allergies and using eggs in baked or other foods.

Ingredients: Eggs - as many or as few as you like. Try to buy natural or organic eggs whenever possible. Directions: 1. Hard-boil an egg 2. Peel shell away and cut in half 3. Scrape or pop out the yolk 4. Mash the yolk and mix in formula, breast milk, yogurt, applesauce or whatever you choose that is appropriate for your baby. OR 1. Crack an egg and separate the white from the yolk (you may use the shell for this or use an egg-separator) 2. Warm olive oil or butter in a frying pan 3. Scramble the yolk in a bowl with formula, breast milk, juice or whole milk and transfer to frying pan 4. Cook over medium heat, scrambling constantly, until thoroughly cooked

** You may also add items such as pureed (or small diced & soft cooked) broccoli, carrots, peas etc...makes great finger food.

Fish Pure (Basic) Read the Introducing Fish article here Ingredients: 1 cup cooked boneless white fish 1/4 c or plain water Directions: Place fish in blender or food processor and slowly add liquid while pureing until a smooth consistency is created. Add as much liquid as needed to make a consistency appropriate for your baby. Add in veggies or even fruits if you like!

Turkey Pure (Basic) Ingredients: 1 c cold and cooked boneless turkey - chopped into no bigger than 1 inch pieces 1/4 c cooking juice (save the juices that you cooked the meat in) or plain water Directions:

Place turkey chunks in blender or food processor and puree until a powdery mix is formed. Slowly add water and puree further until a smooth consistency is created. Add as much liquid as needed to make a consistency appropriate for your baby.

Tofu Read Ideas and Information about Tofu and Feeding Babies Tofu Selecting Meats for Baby Food Recipes - Prepared ANY meat by baking/roasting it. Some good cuts are: Chicken - Breasts (higher in protein and lower in fat) and Thighs/legs (higher in iron and higher in fat) Beef - Eye of Round roast, Top Sirloin, Lean Fresh Ground beef Pork - Tenderloins, Pork Loin Roast (boneless - center cut), Center cut Pork Chops Turkey - Breasts, Thighs, Legs, Ground Turkey (note the same rules applies for white/dark meat with turkey as chicken) Veal - any cut will suffice Ham - while really pork, Ham is not the same as eating Pork Tenderloin for ex. A fresh home baked ham is the best. Check all labels for Sodium Nitrite and Salt content prior to purchasing.

EASY Meats and Protein "Dinners" and Combinations for Babies Baby's First Omelet Ingredients: 2 Egg Yolks Milk or Formula Pured or Chunky Veggies Cheese Directions: Prepare a small frying pan with a pat of butter or a dab of olive oil and heat Scramble egg yolks & Milk or Formula in bowl then pour egg mixture into heated pan. Scramble egg mixture until almost cooked and add veggies. Cook until egg mixture is no longer runny. Add small bits of shredded cheese (Swiss, American, Cheddar or Parmesan) Scramble again when cheese has melted. Serve with Fruit Dices, Yogurt, and/or Petite Toast Points with Fruit Pure Spread. Great for Lunch or Dinner too. Ensure that the Baby Omelet has cooled enough for Baby to eat. (Please use only those ingredients that baby has eaten without any allergic reactions.)

Baby's First Beef Stew Ingredients: 1/2 cup cubed cooked beef 1 peeled potato cup shelled fresh or frozen peas 1 peeled carrot 1 stalk of celery 1/4 cup uncooked pasta (try ditalini or other small pasta sizes) 4 cups of water Directions: Wash vegetables thoroughly and chop very fine. Simmer the veggies for 20 minutes or until softened Add the macaroni and cook for 10 minutes longer or until very soft. Drain but save the water and use to mash into the stew Mash or puree the mix until it is of a consistency adequate for baby

Beef or Veal Dinner Ingredients: 1 lb beef or veal, tender and lean, cut in 1" pieces 1 celery stick, chopped 3 carrots peeled and diced 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut in 1/4 inch dices 1 tablespoon minced onion 1 tablespoon minced garlic Directions: Put the meat in about 1 cup of water in a saucepan and simmer for 45 minutes or until cooked Add celery, carrots, potato, garlic and onion. Cook for 35 minutes or until veggies are tender. Take pot off the heat and let cool a few minutes. Discard vegetables and serve as a "side" or add to puree. Put about 3/4 cup of the meat in the blender with 1/3 cup of the cooking water. Puree until smooth. Add the reserved veggies. Repeat with the remainder of the meat Back to Top

Apples & Chicken Ingredients: 1/3 cup chopped & cooked boneless chicken* 1/4 cup cooked apple (no skin or seeds), very soft You can also use a 1/4 cup of Natural applesauce

Directions: Puree chicken with cooked apple in a food processor or blender until desired consistency for baby is achieved.

Brown Rice Chicken & Peaches Ingredients: 1/2 cup cooked boneless chicken - chopped 1/4 cup cooked brown rice 1 ripe peach 1 tb juice (white grape or apple juice may be used or use water) 1 tb milk and 2 ts wheat germ Directions: Mix all ingredients together, transfer to blender/food processor and puree or chop to make textured for older babies

Creamed Chicken & Potato adapted From "Baby's First Helpings" by Chris Casson Madden Ingredients: 2 tsp Sweet butter or margarine 1 tsp Unbleached flour 1/4 c Low fat milk 1/4 c Chicken, cooked, boned and-shredded 1/4 Potato, baked and cubed (try using sweet potato.) 1 tbls Grated white cheddar cheese Directions: Melt butter in small heavy pan over low heat. Stir in flour and blend well and then add milk and stir until smooth. Cook over low heat until mixture begins to thicken, then add chicken and potatoes. Stir for about 2 to 3 minutes more or until heated through. Feel free to add a few vegetables. Add cheddar and stir until melted.

Chicken Casserole adapted from First Meals by Annabel Karmel Ingredients: 1 tbsp vegetable oil 2 chopped carrots 2 sliced leeks, white part only 1 chicken breasts, cut into chunks 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped

2 peeled, chopped parsnips boiling water Directions: Heat oil in pan, add carrots & leeks, & saut until softened, (about 6 mins.) Add chicken and saut, turning occasionally, till seared, but not browned. Add potatoes & parsnips & just cover w/boiling water. Cover & simmer for 15 mins, or till everything is tender and cooked through. Blend to a puree, or leave chopped for older babies.

Baby's Yummy Fish Dinner (consult a pediatrician regarding introducing fish and read the Introducing Fish to Babies page.) Ingredients: 1 filet of any white fish such as cod, haddock etc. (unbreaded and cooked) 1/8 c or whole milk 1 tbsp melted butter 1/2 tsp salt 1/8 cup mashed peas 1/8 c mashed carrots 1/8 c mashed potatoes Directions: Combine all ingredients and blend/puree until creamy - Serve warm

Tofu Ingredients: 1 Package of Firm or Extra Firm Tofu Directions: Cut tofu into small bite-sized cubes and dust it with crushed cheerios, wheat germ or crushed graham crackers Blend it up with a banana and wheat germ and serve by spoon. You may blend it with any type of fruit(s) like apples, strawberries, blueberries or pears Cube it and toss it into (sodium free) soups or broth and give the cubes to baby Mash tofu with cottage cheese and seasoning to make a sandwich spread. Create your own tofu burgers with mashed tofu, bread crumbs, chopped onion and your favorite seasonings according to baby's age and stage of course. Use the silken tofu and add fruits and fruit juice to create a Fruit Smoothie

Creative Baby Food Combinations & Meal Ideas Making baby food combinations is one of the most fun things about cooking homemade baby foods. At this stage, you are able to combine several foods to make really tasty "recipes" such as apples, pears and sweet potato. Don't shy away from mixing food that your palate thinks should not be mixed together, your baby's palate is a clean slate and she won't know any better. Please insure that your combos are age appropriate for your baby - while there are suggested age ranges noted, you should determine if they suit your baby's needs. Do I still need to follow the "4 day wait rule" when I make baby food combinations? You can begin making combinations when you have introduced at least one of the foods separately and have checked for food allergies. When you have introduced your baby to a variety of foods and you know that no allergies are present, you are free to begin combining different foods together. For example, if you have introduced apples and acorn squash, you can combine them and add one new food to the combination. In this example, should your baby have a reaction, you would know it was the new food added to the "old" foods that may be the culprit. (See Also Meals for Fingers & It's Mealtime Baby. links)

Vegetable Baby Food Combination Ideas Baby Food Combinations For Beginners Squashy Sweet Potato Blend acorn or butternut squash together with sweet potatoes Squashy Apple Sweet Potato Blend apples, acorn or butternut squash together with sweet potatoes Green Beans and Apples or Pears Blend green beans with apples and/or pears Baby Food Combinations For Intermediates Spicy Squash or Sweet Potatoes Add some cinnamon and/or nutmeg to baby's squash or sweet potatoes Green Beans and Potatoes Blend white potatoes and green beans together - add a bit of pear or applesauce for extra Yum Sweet Pea Stew Mix Peas and Carrots with Applesauce, Rice or Oatmeal and Yogurt. Carrot Stew Mix Apples and Carrots with Rice, Oatmeal and Yogurt.

Sweet Potato Pie Mix sweet potato, yogurt, cereal and a dash of cinnamon, top with powdered Cheerios - mix well

Fruit Baby Food Combination Ideas (you may cook some of the fruits together or blend already prepared fruits.) Baby Food Combinations For Beginners Apple Cereal Blend applesauce together with oatmeal or rice cereal Pumpkin Cereal Blend pumpkin puree together with oatmeal or rice cereal Banana-'Cado Blend Avocado and Bananas for a great meal or add the blend to baby's cereal. Apple-Pear Sauce Blend Apples and Pears (yummy when both are cooked together.) Pumpkin Bananas Blend pumpkin puree together with bananas Pumpkin Bananas Applesauce Blend pumpkin puree together with bananas and applesauce Baby Food Combinations For Intermediates Creamy Apple Pie Combine cereal, yogurt and applesauce together adding a dash of cinnamon, top with powdered Cheerios - mix well Pumpkin Pie Blend pumpkin puree together with cereal, yogurt and add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg, top with powdered Cheerios - mix well Blueberry (Yogurt) Medley Mix Blueberry, Apple, and Pear Sauce. Add yogurt if appropriate. Sprinkle with Powdered Cheerios (optional) are better for health and the environment.

Meats and Protein Baby Food Combination Ideas (8 months and Older unless advised by your pediatrician) Add rice, noodles, or barley for a "hearty" meal. Turkey/Chicken/Beef Dinner

Blend turkey or chicken or beef with applesauce and squash for a yummy meal. Blend turkey or chicken or beef with sweet potatoes and/or applesauce Blend turkey or chicken or beef with sweet potatoes and carrots Blend turkey or chicken or beef with applesauce and/or carrots Blend turkey or chicken or beef with pumpkin and squash Tofu Dinner Blend tofu, applesauce and squash together for a yummy meal. Blend tofu, avocado and pears together Blend tofu, blueberries and bananas together

Easy Homemade Baby Food Meal Ideas for simple and easy baby meals. These ideas for making Baby Meals are very simple and use ingredients you likely have right now. The recipes will give baby a variety of nutrients and will help encourage your baby to self-feed. Please keep in mind that your baby should only be offered ingredients that are soft, easily mashed and age appropriate for YOUR baby. Read our tips and hints for offering your baby finger foods and learn about the developmental readiness needed for your baby to enjoy baby finger foods. Grilled Cheese and Shredded Meat or Veggie* 1. Prepare grilled cheese sandwich as you would for an adult 2. Puree, chop or shred meat chunks into tiny bits or crumbles and puree or chop veggies 3. Place meat between the cheese layers 4. Grill the sandwich and cut into little pieces; serve when cooled.

Twins' Rice Balls (Inspired by my twins who took to mashing and rolling their rice meals.) Ingredients: Cooked rice Veggie or Fruit of Choice Meat of Choice Directions: 1. Cook rice as you normally would 2. Puree rice until it achieves an almost paste-like consistency (or just until the grains are small if your baby can handle more texture) 3. Add veggie and/or fruit of your choice and puree a bit more 4. Add a meat of your choice and puree a bit more 5. Mixture should be a bit pasty but not so thick that it cannot be easily eaten by baby 6. Shape into little balls and serve either heated or as is. You may also serve this on the tray or plate and offer a utensil. This mixture is great for those practicing with spoons; the food will cling.

article.

Having trouble transitioning to more textures? Read our Transition to Texture & Table Food

J&J's Baby Meat Balls* This recipe is a great way to use up infant cereal Ingredients: 1 cup lean ground Turkey, Beef or Chicken 1/2 cup plain baby cereal (boxed type) - you may use bread crumbs,oat or wheat bran if you prefer 1/4 cup Wheat Germ

Pureed veggies or fruits - enough to moisten and make the meat/cereal stick together - like meatballs Spices as desired Directions: 1. Place lean ground beef/turkey or chicken into a mixing bowl 2. Add the cereal and wheat germ to the meat and combine 3. Add pureed veggies and/or fruit to moisten the mixture - as much as needed to moisten and bind the mixture 4. Mix together as you would when making adult" meatballs. 5. Bake in an oven at 400 degrees until brown and cooked thoroughly Cover with tinfoil, be sure not to burn the meatballs as they will become tough on the outside and baby may not be able to eat them. (*Ground turkey, rice cereal, wheat germ, pureed sweet potato, dash of cinnamon for example)

Pasta Rings* Ingredients: Ditalini or other small pasta Veggies, Cheese, Meats Directions: 1. Cook ditalini (small round rings of pasta, easy to pick up for 10 months and older) pasta according to package directions 2. Drain pasta 3. Place pasta in a bowl and toss with: butter and grated cheeses cubed cooked veggies cubed cooked meats or whatever your imagination and babys age/taste desires. 4. Serve in bowl or on baby tray

Baby "Cereal" Pancakes Ingredients: 1 cup whole wheat flour 1/2 cup baby barley cereal (or other baby cereal) 1 cup formula (or another liquid such as milk) 1/2 cup mashed banana (or fruit of your choice) 1 tbs melted margarine or butter (unsalted type) 3 egg yolks 1/2 cup baby oatmeal apple juice (about 1/2 cup) Use water if you prefer

Directions: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, dash of vanilla or other flavorings if you wish. Mix all ingredients together and add enough juice to make pancake consistency. Cook on cook top in frying pan as with "regular" pancakes.

Mac-n-Cheese with Pastina Ingredients: Pastina Cheese of your choice Milk (yogurt, formula or breast milk may be used as well) Directions: 1. Cook pastina according to package directions for the cereal 2. As pastina is cooking, add cubes of Colby and American Cheese (cheddars and other stronger cheeses may be used according to babys age/taste preferences) 3. Melt cheeses and stir thoroughly while cooking 4. Add 2 or 3 tablespoons of whole milk when cheeses are melted and stir thoroughly 5. As baby gets older and eats more table foods, you can also add meats and veggies as well these additional chunkier foods will enable easier pick-up for tiny fingers 6. Serve warm

French Fried Turnips & Nuggets Ingredients: 4 medium turnips 2 Tbs olive oil 1/4 cup grated parmesan 1 tsp chopped rosemary Salt and pepper (omit salt for baby.) Directions: Preheat oven to 450. Cut turnips into 1/2 sticks and toss in a bowl with olive oil, parmesan, rosemary, and salt and pepper to taste. Spread turnips out on an oiled sheet pan, and bake until golden, about 20 minutes Serve with meatballs or other protein source like tofu cubes (plain or lightly sauteed). Makes a great snack too.

Broccoli & Cheddar Cheese Nuggets Ingredients:

1 16-oz Package frozen broccoli, cooked, drained, and chopped 1 cup Seasoned bread crumbs (you could try using baby cereal if you want, we know it works well with "baby meatballs") 1 cups Shredded cheddar cheese (please use real cheese and not a "processed cheese food" product. Try tomato & basil cheddar.) 3 Large eggs - Most pediatricians say it's ok to use whole egg in a baked good when baby is over 8-9 months old without allergies. We would recommend that you substitute 5 egg yolks for the whole eggs if serving this to those under 1 yr. Ask YOUR pediatrician. Directions: 1. Heat oven to 375 and lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil and set aside. 2. Combine all remaining ingredients and mix well. *Add seasonings if you like - garlic powder, pepper, extra basil & oregano for example 3. Shape mixture into nuggets or fun shapes such as squares or squigglies etc..and place on baking tray. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, turn nuggets over after 15 minutes. Serve warm Suitable for those who have had the ingredients and for those who can handle texture and mash foods with their gums. Great for Moms & Dad too!

Scrambled Tofu with Mushroom and Green Pepper We suggest this yummy dish for those babies over 8 months old. You may substitute veggies such as sweet potato dices and carrots, to make this suitable for those babies not yet ready for mushrooms or peppers. This is a versatile recipe. Ingredients: 2 tbs (25 mL) olive oil 1 cup (250 mL) chopped sweet green pepper 1/2 cup (125 mL) sliced fresh mushrooms 1 small red onion, diced 1 package (175 g) Petes Tofu ToGo Thai Tango (Use plain tofu for babies...) 2 tbs (25 mL) soy sauce (Use plain water with a pinch of powdered ginger for babies) 1 small tomato, diced Directions: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and saute' onion for 3 minutes, stirring often. Add green pepper and mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes more. Squeeze sauce (or ginger water for babies) over tofu into bowl. Mash it with a fork or crumble with your fingers. Add to skillet with sauce/ginger water. Add soy sauce if making for adults. Cover over medium heat, stirring often until tofu is heated through, about 2 minutes. Add tomato. Cook for 1 more minute. Serve warm Courtesy of Sunrise-Soya. Visit their website for more great and unique recipes that may be made suitable for babies as well as Toddlers.

Nana's Creamed Peas & Nuggets Ingredients:** 4 cups peas, fresh, frozen or canned as a last resort 1 cup milk 2 tablespoons flour 2 tablespoons butter salt and pepper to taste (Salt is optional. try garlic powder instead.) pieces of chicken, fish, pork or beef Directions: Melt butter in a large sauce pan. Whisk in flour and allow to cook for 1 minute. (you are making a rue.) Slowly add milk, whisking the whole time to prevent lumps. Add (salt) and pepper and other spices as you find appropriate. Cook until sauce begins to thicken. Add peas, stir and cook until peas are heated through (about 5-7 minutes) Add meat Serve warm alone or over multi-grain toast or brown rice. (squish peas down if needed) **Other veggies may be added if you desire, however - ensure that ratio of veggies equals 4 cups.** Suitable for those 10 months + or those who are able to handle milk in cooked foods.

Pasta & Garden Vegetable Combo Ingredients: Green beans, peas, summer squash, carrots, potatoes Pasta of your choice Directions: 1. Combine fresh or frozen green beans and peas, summer and/or zucchini squash and thinly sliced pieces of potato, and small pieces of chopped carrots. 2. Add enough water to just cover the vegetables. 3. Cook until tender, reserving water. 4. Puree vegetables with cooked pasta in blender or food processor, using the "chop" option 5. Add water from the vegetables until mixture is of the desired consistency.

Cheese Sauce for Mac-n-Cheese Make a roux. The roux is the basis for many cheese sauces and gravies. Use equal parts butter and flour - milk as needed to achieve the saucy texture you desire - cheese as needed but not too much to make the sauce thick In medium saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour to make a thin-ish paste. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring

constantly, then whisk in milk a little at a time to make a white sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer. Remove pan from heat and stir in cheese or keep pot on low heat and stir constantly until cheese is melted and a cheesy sauce is attained. Add pasta. When we make it for the family, we use the following: 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons flour 1 to 1 1/2 cups milk 4 to 8 ounces of cheese (Cheddar, Jack and Colby together are very good.) Cheese Sauce for Mac-n-Cheese is really an experimental thing.

One Bowl Baby Food Meal Ideas and Recipes for Fingers and Spoons. Quick and Easy 1 Bowl Meals Making meals for your baby by using a combination of ingredients you have on hand, or have already prepared for a meal is quick and simple. It's so easy to feed your baby nutritious meals all in one bowl. Give these ideas a try and you should save time and gain some nutrition for your baby. Please keep in mind that your baby should only be offered ingredients that are soft, easily mashed and age appropriate for YOUR baby. Make Your Own Combo Dish (for babies over 8 months) Ingredients: Cooked and cubed meat Rice, Potato, Noodles or Other Grain Veggies Liquid and/or Yogurt Directions: 1. 1 cup cooked, cubed or diced meat (cut off fat) 2. 1/2 cup cooked rice, potato, noodles or macaroni 3. 2/3 cup cooked, diced vegetables 4. 3/4 to 1 cup liquid (formula, broth or water) Combine ingredients and blend until smooth or chop for those who are accustomed to more textures.

Elaines Jasmine Rice (6mos and up) You can add meats and veggies to this rice dish and serve as a meal for baby. It will also puree well. This recipe makes a traditional congee. It will be soupy so when you read that it calls for 12 cups of broth/stock, you have read correctly and there is no error in measurements. Ingredients: 12 cups Chicken or Vegetable broth 1 1/2 cup jasmine rice Ginger Directions: 1. Combine 12 cups of chicken or vegetable broth with 1 1/2 cups of jasmine rice in a large stockpot. 2. Add a couple of slices of fresh peeled ginger for extra flavor. (Ginger is a natural tummy soother) 3. Bring to a boil. 4. Turn heat down to a simmer and cook for about 1 1/2 hours or until rice turns very smooth and creamy. Stir occasionally. 5. The rice will break up to a porridge-like consistency. 6. Cool the mixture, remove the ginger slices and spoon rice into ice cube trays and freeze overnight then break cubes into freezer bags and store in freezer for up to 2 months. This will freeze well - if you freeze it in portions without additions such as meats or veggies, then you can change the dish at every meal.

Beef & Noodle Dinner Ingredients: Cooked and cubed meat Noodles Veggies Liquid Tomato Paste (10-12 months) Directions: 1. Cook whole wheat or plain egg noodles according to package directions.** 2. In a small saucepan combine fresh or frozen peas, small pieces of chopped carrot, and small slices of celery. 3. Add enough water to cover. Cook until tender, reserve water. 4. In blender or food processor, combine small pieces of fully cooked beef, vegetables, noodles, and add in 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste. (Tomato paste is optional and should be left out for babies under 10 months old using milk and butter will make this a creamy mix in place of the tomato paste. You may also use a natural or salt free broth) 5. Puree, until the mixture is the desired consistency, for smaller babies or chop as needed for the older/toddler baby. **You may use cooked rice or shaped pasta in place of the noodles

Rice and Lentil Dinner Ingredients: Brown rice Lentils Apples Carrots Onions Directions: 1. Cook brown rice and lentils, according to package directions. I make 2 cups rice and 2 cups lentils for this recipe - with 3 apples and 4 carrots 2. In a small saucepan combine small pieces of chopped apples and carrots. (you may also add a bit of onion and celery) 3. Add enough water to just cover. Cook until tender, reserving water. 4. Combine rice, lentils, apples, and carrots in food processor or blender. 5. Pulse and/or puree, adding reserved cooking water from the carrots and apple, until the mixture is the desired consistency, for smaller babies or chop as needed for the older/toddler baby. ** If you are making a big batch, you will need more apples and carrots. For example, 3 apples and 4 carrots for 2 cups rice & lentils tends to work well.

Spring Veggies and Pasta Ingredients Elbow macaroni or ditalini pasta 1. Cook elbow macaroni or ditalini according to package directions.** 2. In a small saucepan combine small pieces of chopped carrots, fresh or frozen peas, fresh or frozen green beans, zucchini or summer squash and fresh or frozen spinach. 3. Add just enough water to cover. Cook until vegetables are tender, reserving water. 4. Combine macaroni, carrots, peas, green beans, spinach, and a small chunk of soft tofu in blender or food processor. Add reserved water for pureeing until mixture is of the desired consistency. 5. Puree for smaller babies or chop as needed for the older/toddler baby. You may use a natural chicken or vegetable stock (Visit our Homemade Stock Recipes to make your own.) as a substitute for the plain water. Using stock to cook the pasta in makes for a more flavorful dish.

Chicken Noodle Dinner Macaroni Carrots & Peas Uncooked or Cooked Chicken - cubed 1. Cook elbow macaroni or ditalini according to package directions. 2. In a small saucepan combine small pieces of chopped carrots and fresh or frozen peas. If using uncooked chicken, dice into cubes and add to saucepan 3. Add just enough water to cover the veggies (and meat if cooking). Cook for 15 minutes or until chicken is done - reserve the water. You may also use a natural or salt free broth 4. In blender or food processor, combine fully cooked chicken breast pieces, carrots, peas, and macaroni. Puree, until the mixture is the desired consistency, for smaller babies or chop as needed for the older/toddler baby.

Vegetable Beef Dinner 1 small potato (white or sweet) - peeled and diced Carrots & Peas - a 1/2 cup of each Uncooked or Cooked Beef - cubed 1. In a small saucepan combine small pieces of chopped carrots, diced potato and fresh or frozen peas - add cubes of raw beef if you will not be using cooked beef (you may use ground beef if desired) 2. Add enough water just to cover. 3. Cook until tender and beef is fully cooked, approx. 15 minutes - reserve liquid. 4. Combine small pieces of fully cooked beef with the potatoes, carrots, and peas 5. Puree, adding reserved water until the mixture is the desired consistency, for smaller babies or chop as needed for the older/toddler baby.

Tofu & Veggies 1/2 block of firm tofu veggies of your choice olive oil 1. Saut Cubes of Tofu in Olive Oil, adding spices as you desire 2. In a small saucepan cook fresh or frozen peas (or carrots, green beans, cubes of squash) as directed or until soft and tender 3. Combine Tofu and Veggies, sprinkle with grated cheese and a dab of butter; serve warm.

How to Puree and Store Homemade Baby Food - a quick introduction Preparing homemade baby food puree is not only fun, it's also very simple. You will be surprised to see that it really will take less time to puree baby food than you imagined. Don't want to puree? Check out Baby Led Weaning page. Pureeing homemade baby food is very simple. Cook the food, let it cool a bit, toss it into a blender or food processor and puree away. You can also use a stick mixer or an immersion blender. Puree and blend your baby foods as your creativity and your baby's age allows. Don't be afraid to puree sweet potatoes together with apples for example. And don't be afraid to use breast milk and/or formula. These 2 ingredients will give a nutrition boost as well as offer baby a familiar taste! Jump to these How to Make Baby Food Puree Topics Below: Freezing Baby Food Puree When to put the Puree into the Freezer/Refrigerator Storing Baby Food Puree in the Refrigerator Appliances to Use for Making Baby Food Puree

How To Make A Baby Food Pure 1. Start by cooking the vegetable/fruit either by steaming, baking, microwaving or boiling. Steaming maintains the most nutrients. Steaming, baking and boiling all allow for big batches of foods to be made at one time. Microwave if you have a small appliance or for when you plan to puree only a full ice tray of food. It is best to microwave in glass. Many parents prefer to not use a microwave (ourselves included); we suggest that you steam or bake as the preferred cooking method. Read all about the various Cooking Methods and Baby Food 2. Take the cooked vegetable or fruit and remove them into the machine you have decided to use for pureeing. 3. Set aside the liquid that the vegetable/fruits were cooked in. This will be the liquid you add to make the puree. Adding this liquid also helps to preserve any nutrients that may have leached into the water during cooking. (Do not use reserved water from carrots or other high nitrate veggies for a baby under 7 months old. Read more about Nitrates ) You may also thin with Formula, Breast Milk or Plain Water. 4. Set your machine to puree or grind and begin to mash the vegetables or fruits. 5. As you are pureeing or blending, add the liquid or plain water. You may use formula or breast milk if you so desire. These liquids give a little nutritional boost and add a familiar taste for baby.

Pureeing without adding any liquids is also a good option. Many parents prefer to thin their foods before they will serve them to their babies. We tend to prefer this as well.

Should I add liquid to thin the purees BEFORE or AFTER I freeze the purees? What should I use?

You may thin your purees either before or after freezing them. Using the cooking water to thin purees is really great as you will be adding back in any nutrients that may have leached out. For some vegetables like carrots, (see our article on Nitrates), you should not use the cooking water to thin the purees. Formula and/or breast milk are great for thinning out purees as they not only add nutrients, they add the familiar taste that your baby is accustomed to. It really is an individual choice and is dependent on what you will be using as your liquid (previously frozen breast milk for example should never be re-frozen.). Many parents find it easier to thin their purees first and then freeze. When baby moves on to more texture, it may be easier to simply freeze the purees and then thin upon thawing if needed. Read more about using Formula and/or Breast Milk to thin puree. NOTE: For every type of machine you may use to puree, the secret seems to be in how much food you put in the container baskets to begin with. No appliance will do a good job if over stuffed. Fill the containers less than half way full and add a scant amount of liquid to begin with. How To Freeze the Baby Food Pure Never freeze homemade baby food in glass that is not specifically labeled as "safe to freeze", for example old baby food jars are not meant for freezing. 1. Once you have a nice liquid baby food puree you will then transfer the puree into ice cube trays for freezing/storage. 2. Fill each cube with the puree, as though you were filling the tray with water to make ice cubes. 3. Cover the tray with plastic wrap (foil may be used however is not recommended as shards of the foil may be left on/in the food cubes) and put it in the freezer. Repeat this process until you have filled all the trays and no puree remains. (Tupperware and OXO brands (prices from $3.99 to $7.00) make ice cube trays with lids if you would prefer getting trays with lids) 4. Each cube is equal to approximately 1 ounce of food. 5. Once the cubes of puree have set and are frozen, take the trays out of the freezer and transfer the cubes into freezer bags. 6. Be sure to label the bag with the date of preparation as well as the type of food. The baby food cubes should be used within a month of freezing. 7. When it is time to feed baby, simply take out the number of food cubes needed and thaw and then reheat. Read the Freezing Baby Food page to learn about other important information. We have also compiled a chart of foods that freeze well and those that do not. Back to Top

SUGGESTED APPLIANCES TO USE FOR THE 3 "STAGES" OF BABY FOOD

Stage "1" for the thin watery purees that make baby's first solids

Use a Blender, a good Hand/Wand/Stick Mixer, a Vita-Mix or a Food Processor. Use the "liquefy" and/or "pure" settings.

Stage "2" for thicker purees as baby moves onto more texture

A Blender, a good Hand/Wand/Stick Mixer, a Vita-Mix, a Food Mill/Grinder, a "Ricer", a Potato Masher or a Food Processor should take you through this stage as well.

Adjust the settings on your machine to "blend", "mix" and "pure" using more of a pulse than a continual whir.

Stage "3" and beyond - for chunky, thick purees and "table foods"

A Blender, a Vita-Mix, a Food Mill/Grinder, a "Ricer" , a Potato Masher or a Food Processor should take you through this stage as well. Adjust the settings on your chosen appliance to "grind", "mix" and/or "chop", again you should use more of a pulse than a continual whir.

Storing Homemade Baby Food Pure in the Refrigerator How long can freshly made homemade baby food stay in the refrigerator? It is recommended that fresh pureed homemade baby food be stored no longer than 48 hours (many food safety authorities say that 72 hour is fine.) in the refrigerator. This time limit ensures that the possibility of bacteria growth in the puree is kept to a minimum and that the food does not take on the "taste of the fridge". This "rule" applies for veggies, fruits, meats etc. If you do not plan to freeze your homemade baby food, we would suggest that you make the puree on a day to day, or every other day, basis. For example, one sweet potato may be baked and then you may freeze one half without pureeing it and then puree the other half. This method will help cut down "waste" and also allow for food safety. Experts say that it takes an infant between 15 to 21 instances of trying a food before a true like or dislike is

established. If you are just beginning to introduce solid foods, you really will not be able to determine if your baby has a true dislike for a food until much later. Freezing pures allows you to go back and try a "rejected" food over again. Even if you will be strictly following the 3-4 day wait rule, we still recommend freezing baby food purees for optimal food safety.

If you do make small batches and store in the refrigerator, please keep in mind that you should not feed your baby from the container and then re-store. Saliva may contaminate the food and bacteria may evolve. Always take the portions you will serve from the container and transfer to a feeding bowl. back to top

When Should the Pure be put into the Freezer or Refrigerator? Visit our Freezing Baby Food page to learn about Freezing Methods and the foods that freeze well. While the professional food jury is still a bit divided, the most highly recommend food safety advice on storing foods from the majority of food sources is this: Refrigerate or freeze perishable foods promptly.. Harmful bacteria can grow rapidly if foods aren't properly cooled. Refrigerate or freeze perishable foods within two hours of purchasing or preparing them. If the room temperature is above 90 F, refrigerate perishable foods within one hour. Freeze ground meat, poultry, fish and shellfish if you don't expect to eat it within two days, and freeze other beef, veal, lamb or pork within three to five days. (read the Mayo Clinic Freezing Information page) Some say that immediately transferring HOT foods to the freezer is NOT good because that hot food will affect the temperature of the foods around it and quite possibly the temperature of the whole freezer. I recommend transferring the food you have cooked to the fridge and then to package for freezer storage within 2-3 hours. You may safely leave prepared foods in the fridge for up to 48 hours (72 MAX) so it is up to you whether you want to immediately move your foods to the freezer.

Cooking Baby Food - What are the best cooking methods for preparing homemade baby food? When venturing into the world of baby food making, one of the most often asked questions is "How should I cook the foods that I will be making for my baby to maintain the most nutrients and flavor?" There are several ways that you can cook foods for homemade baby food. This page will discuss the ways of cooking that are best for fruits, veggies and meats.

Cooking Fruits and Veggies for Homemade Baby Food Baking/Roasting and Steaming are the preferred methods to use when cooking homemade baby food (and your food too!) with boiling in scant amounts of water being the second best method. Foods such as sweet potato, white potato, carrots, parsnips and squash, peaches and pears are wonderfully flavorful when baked. ** Most pediatric sources recommend cooking fruits for babies who are under 8 months old. Bananas and avocado are an exception. For infants who start solids prior to 6 months old, cooking fruits is a good idea. Cooking fruits breaks them down thus enabling easier digestion in an immature tummy. An older baby will be better able to handle the fibers and sugars of raw fruits than will the baby who is younger and just starting on solids. There are many babies who do quite well with raw fruits from 6 months of age on so use your best judgement and consult your pediatrician about the need to cook fruits. Visit Baking Fruits for Baby for some tasty baked fruit recipes and ideas. Cooking Meats for Homemade Baby Food Baking is preferred as the most nutrients are retained. Typically, meat purees are best made with plain water as using the natural juices may make the taste too strong for baby; adding a fruit or veggie puree is a great way to introduce the flavor of meats. Crock pot or Slow-Cooker to Cook Meat for Baby Food - Using a crock pot or a slow-cooker to make meats for baby is a wonderful way to make a multi food combination meal. You may toss any foods that you want into the crock pot with the meat. One of our favorite things to do is to take 3 chicken breasts (diced), a few carrots (diced and peeled), a diced onion and some other veggies and toss the whole lot into the pot. Add 4 or 5 cups of water and seasonings of your choice. All you need to do is turn the crock pot or slow-cooker on low and within 6-8 hours you have a nice meal. If you poach or use a crock-pot (cook meats in liquids) and then throw away the juices, you are tossing out some nutrients as well so be sure to try and add those back into the finished meal!

I have included information regarding cooking in the microwaving due to the fact that many parents prefer to cook their foods this way. I believe that baking and steaming are the best cooking methods for optimal nutrient retention; microwaving food should be a last option whenever possible.

Methods of Cooking Food Below is an outline of the different methods of cooking food and how nutritional content is affected. It covers all forms of cooking. Steaming - This is one of the most preferred methods of cooking. By this method, nutrient loss in minimal. Left over water may be used as stock and for pureeing. The longer any type of food is exposed to high temperatures and immersed in water, the higher the nutrient loss. (Can you imagine the nutrient loss in commercial baby foods that are cooked at sky-high temperatures to help prolong shelf life?.) Steaming as a cooking method helps foods retain their levels of water soluble vitamins too. Vitamin C is an important water soluble vitamin that helps aid in the absorption of iron. Steaming allows the foods to be surrounded by steam rather than soaked in water. Boiling and Stewing - The disadvantage; it leads to loss of nutrients (esp. water soluble vitamins (B&C) and minerals). Loss can be limited by using the needed amount of water for cooking/for required time. Left over water could be used as stock and for pureeing. Baking or Roasting - Baking or Roasting is cooking by dry heat in the oven. The advantage - large quantities of food can be cooked and there is a limited loss of nutrients and the food is easily digestible. Microwave Cooking - The disadvantages of microwave cooking are that food is cooked in small quantities and some foods may lose nutrients at a very high rate. The flavor and nutritive values of most vegetables are good in comparison with other methods. You may use a microwave for cooking if you prefer - the main disadvantage to this is that large batches of foods typically cannot be made at one time; many people find that the use of a microwave is unhealthy and potentially dangerous. The amount of nutrients that are "destroyed" by a microwave varies by the type of food that you are cooking. There are some foods whose nutrients are retained better when microwaved than when steamed or boiled for example. Broccoli is said to be one food that may lose a vast majority of its nutrients when microwaved, more so than any other vegetable. However the study done on broccoli and the microwave is being negated due to the faulty methodology used. Pressure Cooking - Loss of nutrient is less in this method since only little water is used. Frying - Do frying only if required. Shallow frying is much better than deep frying. Deep frying at high temperature can produce toxic chemicals such as peroxides, aldehydes, ketones, hydroperoxidases, cyclic monomeres etc. Preferably avoid reusing the fried oil. We prefer to "fry" in a small amount of olive oil - rather like sauteeing. Grilling - In this method, if the food is burnt with coals and fire, it can cause carcinogenic effect. Babies and small children should not be served grilled foods constantly.

Welcome to the Freezing Homemade Baby Food page. Learn about safely freezing homemade baby food for your little foodie. There are some important freezing guidelines that you must follow. This page outlines some common questions asked about freezing homemade baby food and even provide a chart of the foods that will and will not freeze nicely (Homemade Baby Food Cubes Freezing Chart - opens in a new page) How long will baby food [cubes] keep in the freezer & refrigerator? For optimal quality and nutrient retention, keep frozen baby food cubes in the freezer for a maximum of 3 months. Baby food cubes are safe to remain in the freezer from 3 to 6 months. Using baby food cubes within 1 month to 3 months is really more prudent. Due to the amount of water crystals that tend to build up with baby food purees, and due to the fact that nutrients may leach/evaporate upon thawing because of the water crystals, it is more prudent to use your frozen baby foods cubes as soon as possible - 3 months of storage tops. We always recommend using within 1 month if at all possible. Many authoritative guidelines will say that most fruits and veggies will keep from 8 to 12 months in the freezer. This is mostly true of foods that are frozen in their natural state. This is also assuming that the freezer remains at a constant sub-zero temperature. Storing foods in a deep freezer is best should you wish to keep frozen foods for that time frame. Remember that when certain books give freezer time guidelines, they rely on the typical guidelines for fruits/veggies that have NOT been cooked and turned into purees. How long with baby food cubes keep in the refrigerator? In the refrigerator, it is recommended that fresh pureed homemade baby food be stored no longer than 48 hours (many food safety authorities say that 72 hour is fine.). This limit ensures that bacteria growth in the puree is kept to a minimum and that the food does not take on the "taste of the fridge". This "rule" applies for veggies, fruits, meats etc. If you do not plan to freeze your homemade baby food, I suggest that you make the puree on a day to day, or every other day, basis. For example, one sweet potato may be baked and then you may freeze one half without pureeing it and then puree the other half. This method will help cut down "waste" and also allow for food safety.

Can I safely use frozen vegetables or fruits to make baby food purees and refreeze them?

YES. You can refreeze frozen veggies & fruits. Using frozen fruits and vegetables is the second best option to using fresh foods. The process of flash-freezing (foods being frozen at a very low temperature and frozen very quickly) actually preserves and allows for optimal nutrient retention.

One of the most commonly asked question is "Can I safely use frozen vegetables or fruits to make baby food purees and refreeze them?". There are no studies or research to show that refreezing is negative and/or may adversely affect health. The caveat is that you must cook the foods prior to refreezing them. Frozen vegetables and fruits are NOT COOKED prior to being frozen. Picked at the peak of freshness, a vast majority of frozen veggies are flash frozen either right in the fields or in the warehouse close by. "Fresh" veggies may sit around in trucks and warehouses and criss-cross the country before it even makes it to your table. Frozen veggies are NOT cooked when packaged and so they must be cooked prior to eating. Please be sure to read the label of your frozen veggie bags as a few brands of frozen veggies may be pre-cooked; you would not want to refreeze these. The fact is, cooking foods deplete more nutrients than does freezing foods. Contrary to myth, freezing foods (fruits and vegetables in particular) does NOT deplete 100% of that food's vitamins and minerals. The process of freezing, if kept at a constant 0 degree temp does not contribute to a TOTAL loss of nutrients - if it did, then the majority of the population would be malnourished as we rely on and eat a large amount of frozen foods. If you ever forget what the "rule" is, remember this example : you can take out a roast that was frozen uncooked & raw, thaw it, cook it and then freeze the leftovers for another meal. Once you have thawed the leftovers, you should never re-freeze the leftover-leftovers. The package says not to refreeze. Question received from one of our visitors: Q. Just reading the section on using frozen food to make baby food and then refreezing. I was just concerned because on the package (Green Giant Peas) it says to not refreeze thawed product. Do you know why that is?? A. You should never refreeze a thawed product, that is correct. Refreezing thawed products may affect the taste and quality (and possibly very minutely, the nutritional value) of the product. You should ALWAYS cook a thawed product prior to re-freezing it. Cooking a thawed product will allow you to then re-freeze it for one cycle. Keeping a bag of frozen veggies or fruits on makes it simple for you to serve up a meal. You don't have to puree the whole bag, just cook and use a handful at a time.

Freezing Homemade Baby Food - The Ice Cube Tray/Freezer Bag Method: Using this method, you spoon or pour your baby food purees into regular ice cube trays and then cover with plastic wrap. Prior to using your ice cube trays, you want to thoroughly cleanse them with warm soapy water and/or run them through the dishwasher on the sanitize setting. Some parents have even submerged their ice cube trays in boiling water for sanitizing (note: please make sure that the manufacturer of the trays indicates it is ok to boil the trays.) The ice cube tray method of storing homemade baby food offers you many advantages.

Each cube is approximately 1+ ounces, allowing you to have an idea of the amount of food your baby is consuming. There is minimal waste as you use only 1 cube at a time and will not have to toss away much food; such as you toss away when using commercial foods.

Another advantage is that you probably have ice cube trays on hand and will not need to go out and buy them.

Once the purees have been frozen in the trays, you simply pop out the cubes and use as needed. Using this method also allows you to make several trays at a time so your time spent in the kitchen making baby food is decreased. You may transfer the baby food cubes into freezer bags, freeing up your trays for the next batch of food as well as freeing up some freezer space. If using the freezer bag method for your food cubes, be sure to label the bags with the type of food and also date the bags. This will help you to quickly grab a cube from a bag of veggie and a bag of fruit without having to guess what you have in the bags. It also allows you to keep track of the length of time the food cubes have been in the freezer. Learn more about Homemade Baby Food Storage Methods

My baby food cubes are frosty and have ice crystals on them - Do my homemade baby food cubes have freezer burn? Don't be alarmed if you see ice crystals forming on your baby food cubes. As mentioned earlier, this is NOT freezer burn rather it is the excess liquid used to make the puree that rises and freezes at the top of the cubes. These crystals or frost are not dangerous and will not make your baby food cubes inedible or harmful. Freezer Burn - What is it and How may I spot it? Freezer burn looks like grayish brown spots on the frozen item. It appears as a leathery type texture and is easily noticeable. Crystals on frozen foods are not freezer burn but are a result of any excess liquids being frozen and forming ice crystals. Freezer burn does not make a frozen food harmful; it simply makes the areas affected very dry. The only thing that may suffer in foods that have a lot of freezer burn is the quality. You can cut away the burned portions and still be able to use the unaffected area of the food. Freezer burn results when excess air in the frozen package descends on the food. Try to eliminate air pockets in the packages you will be freezing to help stop freezer burn.

Can I use glass jars for freezing homemade baby food? Can I use Gerber/Beechnut glass jars?

Glass that is not specifically manufactured for freezing has the unfortunate ability to crack, leave behind tiny, microscopic shards and fragments and also is prone to bursting. Baby food jars are not manufactured for freezing or for extreme heating. BALL, makers of home canning products, manufactures 4 ounce jars specifically for freezing as do other manufactures. Many people do freeze in baby food jars but I do not advocate this whatsoever. After all, you're making baby's food because you want the best nutrition and health for your little one; why take a risk by freezing in jars? There

are glass jars on the market that are specifically manufactured for freezing and those jars should pose no hazards at all. Gerber containers do not have any specific markings or labeling to indicate that they are good for either temperature extremes. I have emailed Gerber and they have said that they do not recommend using their containers for storage at either temperature extremes such as freezing or extreme heat (microwaving). Feel free to Gerber as they were very quick with their reply to us. I do not advocate freezing foods in any container that is not specifically labeled for freezing. There are certain "grades" of plastics that are specifically manufactured to withstand high temperatures and/or freezing. You may look on the bottom of the containers for the plastic symbol and then look the symbol up here at American Plastics Council. Please note that these codes do not necessarily mean that the container you are using is 100% safe for heating or freezing; the codes will give you a baseline to help with your decision.

What is the "rule" for freezing Meat Purees or Meat Combinations? Meat Purees and Meat "Dinners" that you have mixed may be frozen just as you would fruits or veggies or combinations. It is safe to freeze meats that have been frozen when raw and uncooked, thawed, cooked and then pured. You should not freeze meat purees from meats that have been frozen when raw, thawed, cooked and then frozen and then, thawed again. If you ever forget what the "rule" is, remember that you can take out a raw frozen roast, thaw it, cook it and then freeze the leftovers for another meal. Once you have thawed the leftovers, you must use them within 48 hours; you should never re-freeze the leftoverleftovers.

Can I Use Previously Frozen Breast Milk or Formula to Make and then Freeze Baby's Vegetable or Fruit Purees? You should not use Previously Frozen Breast Milk to thin pures that you will then be freezing into baby food cubes. Breast Milk should never be re-frozen in any way or form. Using formula to thin and then freeze Pures is acceptable. Formula You may freeze purees that have been mixed with formula. Formula should not be frozen in the form of bottles or cans. For example, you should not freeze formula bottles that you have mixed nor should you stock up on premixed formula and freeze that. As the formula companies note, freezing formula causes a separation of the fats from the liquid and texture suffers. There is no health risk to freezing formula, just texture and quality. Think of it as the same as freezing a gallon of milk - its not dangerous but it makes the quality of the milk suffer. The Enfamil website notes:

"Freezing of any Enfamil formula is NOT recommended. Freezing infant formula can lead to physical property changes like fat separation, which may prove difficult for sensitive infants to digest. Freezing will not extend the expiration date of the formula." "Freezing of our products may cause loss of desirable appearance and functionality (though not nutrition), and is not recommended." Clinical Frequently Asked Questions, Storing Enfamil The International Formula Council Notes: Should Infant Formula Be Frozen? The use of infant formula after freezing is not recommended. Although freezing does not affect nutritional quality or sterility, physical separation of the products components may occur. http://www.infantformula.org/faqs.html#14 It might be easier to freeze your purees without adding any extra liquids. If need be, thin your puree food cube(s) when it comes time to feed your baby. Should you decide to do this, you simply thaw the "un-thinned" food cubes and then thin the food cubes to the desired texture that your infant requires.

here are many safe and convenient ways to store homemade baby food - learn more! Now that you have made your baby food, you want to store it in the most sanitary yet convenient way possible. Should you bother with ice cube trays, store it in the refrigerator, drop it on wax papered cookie sheets for freezing or use glass jars? After you have made the decision on how to store your baby food, how will you organize it? Outlined below are the varied methods for storing homemade baby food along with their pros and cons. Storing Homemade Baby Food Using the Ice Cube Tray - Freezer Bag Method Using this method, you spoon or pour your purees into regular ice cube trays and then cover with plastic wrap. Prior to using your ice cube trays, you want to thoroughly cleanse them with warm soapy water and/or run them through the dishwasher on the sanitize setting. Some parents have even submerged their ice cube trays in boiling water for sanitizing (note: please make sure that the manufacturer of the trays indicates it is ok to boil the trays.) The ice cube tray method offers you many advantages: Each cube is approximately 1+ ounces, allowing you to have an idea of the amount of food your baby is consuming. Another advantage is that you probably have ice cube trays on hand and will not need to go out and buy them. Further, there is minimal waste as you use only 1 cube at a time and will not have to toss away much food; such as you toss away when using commercial foods. Using the ice cube tray method to store homemade baby food also allows you to make several trays at a time so your time spent in the kitchen making baby food is decreased. Once the purees have been frozen in the trays, you simply pop out the cubes and use as needed. If you've made big batches, pop out the cubes and store them in freezer bags. You simply transfer the baby food cubes into freezer bags, freeing up your trays for the next batch of food as well as freeing up some freezer space. If using the freezer bag method for your food cubes, be sure to label the bags with the type of food and also date the bags. This will help you to quickly grab a cube from a bag of veggie and a bag of fruit without having to guess what you have in the bags. It also allows you to keep track of the length of time the food cubes have been in the freezer. Storing Homemade Baby Food in the Refrigerator Storing your baby food in the refrigerator is probably one of the least convenient and safe way to store homemade baby food. It is recommended that baby food be stored no longer than 48 hours in the refrigerator so as to reduce the risk of (bacterial or other) contamination on the food. If you choose to store your baby food in the refrigerator, please be sure to take individual servings from the container. NEVER feed your baby directly from the original container and then re-store. Saliva may contaminate the food. Using the Wax Paper/Cookie Sheet Method to Store Homemade Baby Food

This method involves dropping your purees into "clumps" on a cookie sheet that has been covered in wax paper; much like you do when making cookies. This method requires a lot of freezer space and would also require that you transfer the frozen food into another storage item. Should You Use Glass Jars or Recycled Baby Food Containers to Store Homemade Baby Food? You should NEVER freeze anything in glass containers unless the glass container is specifically labeled for freezing. Freezing in glass may cause bursting. It may also cause tiny fractures in the glass and may leave behind microscopic glass shards that you may never see. Freezing homemade baby food in the plastic containers that some commercial baby food makers now use is a better choice. However, some plastics are made specifically to withstand heat and freezing temperatures so ensure that your recycled plastic containers are labeled as "ok to freeze". BALL, makers of home canning products, manufactures 4 ounce jars specifically for freezing as do other manufactures. All things considered, freezing in ice cube trays and then transferring to freezer bags is to me, the easiest, most time-saving and convenient method of storing homemade baby food - even when you have twins!

How to Naturally Thicken Homemade Baby Food Purees - Easily Make Thin Baby Food Purees Thick

Many parents find that sometimes, the fresh baby food purees they have made are a bit too runny and thin. There are also instances when thawed baby food cubes will be more thin and runny than when they went into the freezer. You may even find your baby has decided it's time for more texture and you want to use up the thinner "stage 1" baby food purees what you already have. Thickening up baby food purees is easy and simple and there are a variety of foods that you can use. Whether you do it before or after freezing is simply a personal decision. There is no "correct" way to thicken up thin or runny baby food purees. I have found that thickening AFTER the baby food puree cubes have been thawed often works out best. 6 times out of 10, thawed baby food purees will be more runny than the foods was before it went into the freezer. As noted on our page about thinning homemade baby food purees, it often happens that when you have put a nice puree of zucchini or pears into the freezer, the thawed food is more runny and thin than when it was freshly made and then frozen. Freezing changes the cellular structure of many foods and thus many foods that are frozen to perfection wind up a different texture when they are thawed.

Homemade Baby Foods that may become runny or thin The most common fruits and veggies that may become too thin are as follows:

Blueberries Mango Melons - Cantaloupe, Honey Dew etc. Papaya Pears Peaches Plums Summer (Yellow) squash Zucchini Eggplant

What to use to Thicken Up Thin, Runny or Watery Baby Food Purees Try adding a few of these items to thicken up those baby food that you find are too runny:

yogurt banana cottage cheese egg yolks (cooked - hard boiled or even scrambled) wheat germ tofu baby cereal - either homemade or commercial (keep a box of commercial baby cereal on hand for thickening purees or teething biscuits.)

lentils or legumes such as split peas, or navy beans - cooked and pureed sweet potato white potato

How to Easily Thin Your Homemade Baby Food Purees - When and How to Thin Baby Food Purees

Should I thin baby food purees before I freeze them? This is probably the most often asked question about thinning foods for baby food puree. Whether you thin out baby food before or after freezing is simply a personal decision. There is no "correct" way that thinning baby food purees should be done. I have found that thinning AFTER the baby food puree cubes have been thawed often works out best. Sometimes when you put a nice puree of zucchini or pears into the freezer, the thawed food is more watery, runny and thin than when it was freshly made and then frozen. Freezing changes the cellular structure of many foods and thus many foods that are frozen to perfection wind up a different texture when they are thawed. Pears and zucchini are just a few of the foods that may end up more runny.

Ways to Change the Texture and Thin Homemade Baby Food Purees Save and use the cooking liquid Cooking foods either by boiling or steaming will cause some of the foods' nutrients to leach into the cooking water. Reserving the cooking water and using it to puree baby food is a great way to retain those nutrients. The cooking water will add the nutrients back into your baby's foods. ***Do NOT use the cooking water from carrots to thin baby food. Read more about Nitrates and Homemade Baby Food*** Breast milk is Great for thinning baby food Using breast milk to thin your baby food puree is a great way to boost the nutrients in baby's food as well as add a familiar taste. Please do NOT use previously frozen breast milk to thin purees that you will freeze. Previously frozen breast milk should never be refrozen. Infant Formula As noted on several of the Wholesome Baby Food pages, it is not advisable to freeze infant formula because the fat will separate; this will occur when you freeze whole cow milk. It is safe to add infant formula to homemade baby food purees that you will freeze. As the infant formula companies note, nutritional value of the formula is not compromised when it is frozen nor are there any safety issues. "Freezing of any Enfamil formula is NOT recommended. Freezing infant formula can lead to physical property changes like fat separation, which may prove difficult for sensitive infants to digest. Freezing will not extend the expiration date of the formula." "Freezing of our products may cause loss of desirable appearance and functionality (though not nutrition), and is not recommended." Clinical Frequently Asked Questions, Storing Enfamil Stock Up Another great way to thin baby food purees is to make your own stock. Not only are homemade stocks yummy and convenient, they are also very nutritious. You can make a batch of stock, freeze it in small portions (like in

ice cube trays) and then use the amount needed when thinning your baby food purees. A yummy veggie stock will add a nice taste to a chicken and rice puree. Here are a Few Foods that are good to thin before freezing A few common fruits and veggies that are good to "pre-thin" are as follows:

Sweet Potatoes Carrots Winter Squash (butternut, acorn, hubbard etc.) Peas Lentils Rice

What is the Best Way to Heat or Thaw Homemade Baby Food Cubes?

Thawing and Heating of Homemade Baby Food When thawing or heating baby food cubes, take out as many cubes that you will feed your baby for 1 or 2 days. Remember to thaw only the amount of food that you will use in a period of 1-3 days as you should not refreeze any leftover food. Transfer the cubes to a storage container and let the cubes thaw in the refrigerator or you may wish to transfer the cubes to a glass bowl and then thaw them in the microwave. We'll discuss the various methods of heating and thawing homemade baby food below. Whatever method you choose, please do be sure to always test the temperature of the foods you will be feeding your baby!

Heating Homemade Baby Food Microwave Heating Many parents love the ease and convenience of the microwave for both heating and thawing homemade baby food. Whether or not you use the microwave to heat or thaw your homemade baby food is a decision only you can make. To heat the baby food in the microwave, always transfer the amount of food you will be heating to a glass microwave safe container. You should not use plastic to heat foods in the mircowave. Heat the food in 15 second increments and stir after each heating. When the food has reached the temperature you desire, be sure to give one final stir so that no hot pockets are left to burn baby's mouth. Stove Top Heating of Homemade Baby Food When heating baby food on the stove top, choose a smaller saucepan and place the food into the sauce pan. Gently heat the food using a low setting. Using the lower heat setting will ensure that you do not burn the food. Do NOT store leftover food from a container that your baby has been eating from. Saliva will contaminate the food and storing leftovers may cause food poisoning.

Microwave Thawing of Homemade Baby Food Always warm baby food cubes in a glass bowl and not in plastic containers as research indicates glass is safer. If you are using a microwave to thaw or reheat baby food cubes, be sure to stir food to ensure no hot-pockets are left to burn baby. Many parents do not like to use the microwave for a variety of reasons. It is up to you to decide if heating or thawing your baby food cubes in the microwave is right for you and your baby. If you do not wish to use a microwave to thaw your baby food cubes, you may thaw your baby food cubes in the refrigerator over night (ensure that the cubes remain a closed container and not in an uncovered bowl) as mentioned.

Refrigerator Thawing of Homemade Baby Food Cubes Thawing baby food cubes in the refrigerator will take longer than using a microwave or the floating/submersion method. You may thaw your baby food cubes in the refrigerator over night (ensure that the cubes remain a closed container and not in an uncovered bowl). This method may take up to 12 hours so do be sure to plan accordingly!

Submersion or Warm Water Thawing of Baby Food Cubes Thawing baby food cubes using this "submersion method" should take between 10-20 minutes. You may place the cubes in a small bowl and then place the bowl in a larger bowl filled with hot water. You can also do this with a pan of warm water on the stove; add the smaller bowl to a pot of water that you have warmed. Thawing food on your kitchen counter is never recommended as bacteria or other contaminants may get into the food. You should not feed your baby from the container and then re-store the container that baby has been fed from. Saliva may contaminate the food and bacteria may evolve. Always take the portions you will serve from the container and transfer to a feeding bowl. Please keep in mind that reheating and serving baby food cubes is warm is NOT necessary. Baby food cubes may be served at room temperature once they have been thawed and then heated.. Many babies enjoy room temperature foods. How Long is it Safe to Keep Thawed Baby Food in the Refrigerator Thawed homemade baby food is just like other food that you have cooked, frozen and then thawed. The homemade baby food that you have thawed may safely be kept in the refrigerator for 72 hours maximum. Ensure that the thawed baby food is kept in a sealed container to avoid contamination.

Taking Homemade Baby Food to Daycare - How to Prepare Homemade Baby Food for Daycare Many parents wonder if they should even try to make homemade baby food if their babies will be going to daycare or will have other caregiver issues. So how do you send homemade baby food to daycare or to the babysitter - it's as easy as packing some cubes! Some think that sending homemade baby food to daycare will put an additional burden on the facility or the caregiver; in most cases, homemade baby food is just as convenient as commercial jar baby food. Here are a few tips for sending homemade baby food to the babysitter's or to the day care providers: Daily: You can thaw the required number of food cubes the night before. You can either thaw them in the container you will send to the daycare or transfer them in the morning to another container. Pack the needed cubes and other foods/bottles in a mini-cooler. Daily: In the morning, transfer the needed cubes, in their frozen state, to the container you will send to the daycare. Allow the cubes to thaw while at the daycare, in the refrigerator. 2-3 Days Worth: Thaw 2 days worth of food cubes, in separate containers. Send the food to the daycare in containers with the dates and description of the food(s). Don't forget to include a "Use By" date. Remember, thawed cubes will be safe for 48 hours and some food safety authorities even say 72 hours. It's Thermos Time!: Thaw and warm the foods that you will be sending to daycare and pack them in a thermos. The foods will stay warm for up to 7 hours! Weekly: Prepare separate food cubes solely for the use of the daycare or babysitter. Freeze the homemade baby food as you usually do then set aside some cubes. Transfer the cubes to bags that will go to the daycare or babysitter. I find it most convenient to use a thermos, plastic storage containers or glass containers when taking homemade baby food anywhere. Glass is ideal if the center or provider will be heating up the foods!

Traveling with Homemade Baby Food is easier than you may think Traveling with Homemade Baby Food is easier than you may think. At the same time, it does take some preplanning and calculation. Depending on where you are going, how long you are staying and what types of "creature comforts" will be available, you may not have to rely on a single ounce of commercial baby food. Our tips below address camping, air travel, day trips and restaurant outings. A good hint that will help ease traveling with baby - with or without homemade baby food, is to try to serve some meals at room temperature. Serving meals at room temperature will allow your baby to become accustomed to food that is not "hot". You never have to worry about a meal being rejected because it is not heated. "Homemade" Baby Food to Go - The Traveling Trio Many parents feel that if they make homemade baby food, then they will be restricted to staying home because it would be difficult to travel with homemade food. We become so accustomed to cooking, pureeing and storing that we often think of toting along containers of cubes. I find that the many parents don't even think of the easiest method of taking homemade baby food to go - the banana, the container and the fork. Think of it as the traveling trio! If you are going on a day trip, or on a plane, the traveling trio is probably all that you will need for your little one. So grab your small food tote and toss in a banana, a fork and a container with a lid. When it comes time to feed baby, peel the banana, mash it in the container with a fork and VIOLA, fresh baby food to go! You could also take along an avocado or even a prebaked sweet potato to mash up for baby's meal. ** Taking fresh food through an airport security check point might be a bit difficult however most shops within the departures terminal will have bananas for sale. Travel with Frozen Baby Food Cubes - Storage and Packing For those of you who are adventurous enough to go camping with your wee one, take along a mini-cooler packed full of the frozen food cubes you will need. This will require you to plot out how many cubes of each particular food you will feed to your baby during the given time frame you will be away from home. If you have been using the freezer bag storage method - simply take out each freezer bag of food cubes and arrange in the cooler with ice packs. As the cubes are already frozen, they should be able to withstand a journey of 6 hours with minimal thawing. You can also take your cubes to a hotel as many hotels provide minirefrigerators. The food cubes should keep for approximately 5 days if stored in a refrigerator. Baby Food Cubes do travel well and may be thawed/heated as you do at home if appliances are available OR may be thawed over a gas stove or camp fire via the submersion method. If using a camp stove or camp fire warm a pot of water over the fire and place the number/types of food cubes needed into a container that will not melt and thaw the cubes. Be sure to keep a close watch on the cubes as they are thawing so as to avoid overheating. Travel with Other Types of Foods for Feeding Baby - Storage and Packing Cereals will also travel well and you may either take your ground grains and cook as needed or take cereal that has been frozen in ice trays and prepare as usual. Fruits are a bit tricky when taking along on a vacation. Unless they are already pureed and frozen into cubes, be sure to purchase fruits that are "almost" ripe. If you take along fully ripened fruits, you may find they will rot or go bad before you are able to use them.

Vegetables will travel well and if you will be preparing them during your stay, we recommend peeling, and if possible, cutting/dicing prior to leaving your home. Store them in an airtight freezer bag and if possible, fill the bag with some water to help maintain freshness. This method works will if you will be going on a camping trip. Another option is to purchase fresh vegetables wherever you will be staying and prepare them as needed. Dairy/Eggs should be of the dry powdered kind, especially if you will be camping and won't have access to refrigeration. If you will have full refrigeration where you are going to be staying, purchase your needed dairy and eggs at your destination and point of stay. Air Travel, Day Trips and Restaurant Outings: Air Travel with Baby Formula, Breast Milk, Juice, and Other Liquids "The TSA (Transportation Safety Administration) has outlined the following regulations when traveling with infant related items: Medications, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint. All items including formula, breast milk, and juice will be inspected, however, you or your baby or toddler will not be asked to test or taste breast milk, formula, or juice. Our Security Officers may test liquid exemptions (exempt items more than 3 ounces) for explosives. Click here to learn more about TSA restrictions." You may also pack your baby food cubes in a container with ice and check the container in at the airport. Please be sure that you let the ticket-agent know that your container has ice and baby food cubes in it. Ensure that the container may be easily opened and inspected if needed. We do not recommend taking frozen baby food cubes with you when traveling outside of the United States to a foreign country. Many foreign countries have restrictions on bringing food items such as fruits and vegetables into their countries. Travel with Homemade Baby Food - Most Recommended Tools You May Need Manual Food Grinder will allow you to grind as you go. This is great for when you will be eating out in restaurants as well. You will be able to order fruits and veggies and grind them up fresh right there. Extra Storage Containers/Freezer Bags for when you leave your quarters to go day-tripping. It is also good to have extras if you need to divide servings and save them for another feeding. Whisk or Potato Masher in case you need to further mash or mix up foods to the right consistency. If all of these Tips seem too overwhelming or cumbersome, don't hesitate to pack jars of commercial baby food and boxes of commercial cereal. If you decide to go this route, we suggest serving your baby some commercial baby foods a week or so prior to your journey. There are babies that will refuse to eat commercial baby foods, especially if they have been brought-up thus far on only homemade baby food. You do not have to use only commercial during this time, simply offer either a fruit or veggie or cereal for one meal along with your homemade baby food.