Avocados are now considered one of nature’s best first solids for infants. Avocados contain high levels of fibre, vitamins, iron, potassium and other minerals essential for baby’s healthy growth and fortunately babies seem to love the taste and texture of the mashed fruit. Mashed or pureed avocados can be served with a wide variety of other fruit or vegetables to babies (from 4- 6 months old) and older infants.
The avocado needs no cooking, just scoop out, puree or mash, and serve on its own or with cereals and / or other fruit. No need to rush out and buy a food processor if you don’t have one. A fork or a sieve work just as well. When first introducing to baby, you may ‘thin’ the mixture by adding formula or breast milk. Here are 9 easy ways to use avocados as baby’s first food.
Try these five recipes to introduce avocados to your baby:
1. Avocado Fruit Puree
Peel, core and dice an apple or a pear. Simmer until soft in a small saucepan with a little water. Puree or mash with a fork until smooth. Peel and mash half an avocado (remove seed) and mix with the fruit.
2. Avocado and Banana
Select a small ripe banana and a small ripe avocado. Peel banana and slice. Peel avocado, remove seed, slice and mash both fruits with a fork or use a food processor. Quick and easy!
3. Avocado Fruit Salad
You will need a half of each of the following fruits: small avocado, small banana, small papaya (pawpaw), and a kiwifruit. Peel all, dice and place in a bowl. Puree, or can be served diced to older babies. Serve topped with yoghurt or a little honey.
