Have you been dependent on baby food sold at grocery stores? Did you try to compute how much money and time you spent on baby food? Are you also sure of the nutritional content of your bottled baby food?
As reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, making your own baby food is easy, efficient and economical. Instead of spending money on pre-packaged baby food, you can use fresh fruits, veggies, grains and meat that you have in your grocery list. You know exactly what nutritional benefits you're feeding your baby if you prepared it yourself.
You can always customize the food that you want to feed your baby. In that case, the baby gets used to the food you're feeding him.
Parents magazine encourages moms to make their own baby food since all that is needed is a saucepan and a blender or food processor to get started.
According to Parents magazine, Here are Some 3 Easy to Make Baby Food:
1. Curried Carrot and Red Lentil Puree
Introducing your kids to different spices and textures at an early age is a smart way to raise an adventurous eater. Lentils and curry are a winning combo that your whole gang will love.
Makes: 3 cups
Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Prep: 15 mins
Cook: 20 mins
Cool: 10 mins
2. Even Pears Get the Blues (Pear and Blueberry Puree)
Blueberries are often referred to as a "superfood," and for good reason. They're high in antioxidants, fiber, Vitamin A and Vitamin C. They make a great puree for wee ones and a terrific on-the-go snack for the toddler set. Coupled with pears (also high in fiber and Vitamin C) and a dash of cinnamon, this puree is a nutritional hit. It's also great as a smoothie or as a mix-in for oatmeal or your favorite hot breakfast cereal.
Makes: 3/4 cup
Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 5 mins
Cool: 5 mins
3. Minty Peas
Why serve your baby plain old boring pea puree when you can brighten it up with the vibrant flavor of fresh mint? Mint is not only a flavor enhancer for peas; it also aids digestion.
Makes: 2 cups
Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Prep: 15 mins
Cook: 6 mins
You can find hundreds of baby food recipes in the Internet and you can choose what nutritional benefits you want to get out of the baby food.
Happy cooking!
