Baby Food How-To

I have had lots of inquiries about the baby-food-making process, so I thought I'd post some ideas for those interested. I have consulted a lot of books, but I really think most of it is common sense. One of the books that was given to me was Top 100 Baby Purees (by Annabel Karmel). This has a lot of good ideas, and isn't too difficult to get through. I also used Super Baby Food, and Feed Me, I'm Yours which both have a little more information.

To get started, (and before you buy any equipment), I'd start with a food that is easily digested, and slightly sweet (my lactation consultant recommended sweet potato (cooked), banana, or avocado) mixed with a little bit of baby's usual milk. You can mash any of these with a fork or spoon until mushy. With any of the leftovers, you can use the "plop and freeze" method, taking 1 or 2 tablespoons of the mixture, putting it on wax paper and freezing. After it's frozen, I put the blobs in freezer bags, and label and date them. I am pretty sure most food is good for about 2 months if frozen in this manner.

If you find that the preparation isn't too cumbersome, I'd suggest investing in some ice cube trays for any batches you make. I use the stackable Orka Ice cube tray, with silicone bottoms and lids. I found them at Amazon, and each "cube" is one tablespoon (which makes it easy for measuring purposes). Of course, any ice cube tray will do. I have also found that a blender is super for pureeing, especially since I don't have a food processor. Either works, but it's much easier than fork mashing. Aferward, I put the mixture in the ice trays, freeze, then transfer to the freezer bags. For single serving meals, my mom got me a hand grinder that works really well if you want to whip up something small. When she is older, I imagine we'll use this a lot to make "our dinners" work for her.

Pretty easy, right? The idea is that after she gets used to eating food, We'll be able to grind up whatever we're eating, and the whole "batching process" won't even be necessary. I have found that it is relatively inexpensive to make (compared to jarred food) and I like knowing a little more about what I am feeding her. Plus, it gives me an excuse to try all those vegetables at the market I've never had the nerve to buy :)