Puree, Purah

Baby cereal as a baby's first food is becoming a thing of the past.  I still think it is a great first food because it is gentle on the tummy, easy to puree, and easy to make very small amounts so little is wasted.

But what baby doesn't like variety?

Here are some of my favorite 'early' foods for babies just starting out on solids (4-8 months).  I like them because they are soft on the tummy, and either simple to prepare or easy to freeze.  {Remember to puree completely and wait 4 days between introducing new foods in case of allergies!}

* Applesauce (unsweetened)

* Avocado

* Banana

* Butternut squash

* Carrots

* Cereals (rice and oatmeal)

* Pears

* Plums

* Pumpkin (buy canned for simplicity)

* Sweet potato

Applesauce, avocado, banana, cereals, and pumpkin do not need to be cooked.

Carrots, pears, peas, plums, and sweet potatoes can be steamed, (Ziplock Zip'N Steam microwave bags are excellent), peeled and pitted, and then mashed with a fork.

Butternut squash should be cut in half lengthwise, pitted, and placed "face" down in a baking dish with an inch of water.  Bake at 400 degrees F for about 40 minutes.

Notice green vegetables are missing from this mix?  They are a PAIN to puree.  In my opinion, not worth the effort.  I do green vegetables Gerber style!