When it comes to feeding our little ones, we want to ensure that they’re getting all the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. As babies enter the 9-12 month age range, their dietary needs shift to focus on more complex macronutrients and a wider variety of flavors. That’s why it’s essential to introduce new recipes that are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional value. In this article, we’ll explore 18 nutritious baby recipes that cater specifically to the needs of babies in this age group. From sweet potato and carrot purees to quinoa apple cinnamon porridge, these recipes will provide you with a wealth of options for healthy growth and development. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or a new mom, these recipes are sure to become staples in your baby’s diet.
Sweet Potato and Carrot Puree
This sweet and smooth puree is a perfect way to introduce your little one to the flavors of sweet potatoes and carrots. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a nutritious and delicious baby food that’s perfect for mealtime.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 tablespoon breast milk or formula (optional)
– Salt-free seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the sweet potato and carrot chunks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Allow the roasted vegetables to cool slightly.
5. Blend the cooled vegetables in a blender or food processor until smooth.
6. If desired, add breast milk or formula and blend until well combined.
7. Season with salt-free seasoning if needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Avocado Banana Mash
A creamy and nutritious breakfast or snack option, this Avocado Banana Mash combines the healthy fats of avocado with the natural sweetness of banana.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 ripe avocado
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey or maple syrup to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the banana into chunks and place them in a bowl.
2. Peel the avocado and remove the pit, then mash it with a fork until mostly smooth.
3. Add the mashed avocado to the bowl with the banana chunks.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the mixture and stir until combined.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed by adding honey or maple syrup.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Spinach and Pear Baby Food
This recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to introduce your little one to the world of fruits and veggies. The sweetness of the pears pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of spinach, making it a great first food for babies.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and cored
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon breast milk or formula (optional)
– Water (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your blender or food processor to warm temperatures.
2. Add the pear to the blender and puree until smooth.
3. Add the spinach leaves and blend until well combined and the spinach is fully incorporated.
4. If desired, add breast milk or formula to thin out the mixture to your baby’s preferred consistency.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Quinoa Apple Cinnamon Porridge
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the sweetness of apples and cinnamon, creating a deliciously healthy breakfast or snack. Perfect for chilly mornings or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or any sweet variety)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, apple, butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and the apple is tender (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve warm, garnished with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Butternut Squash and Pea Puree
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the vibrant freshness of peas, resulting in a deliciously creamy puree perfect for accompanying meats, grains, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, nutmeg, or cumin for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove squash from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Scoop flesh into a blender or food processor, along with peas, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting the squash) + 2-3 minutes (blending)
Blueberry Oatmeal for Babies
This simple and nutritious recipe is perfect for introducing your baby to the world of oatmeal. With the sweetness of blueberries, this dish is a great way to get your little one started with healthy eating.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or breast milk
– 1 tablespoon mashed ripe banana
– 1 tablespoon pureed blueberries (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional: 1 teaspoon honey (for babies over 8 months)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine oats and water/breast milk. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
2. Remove from heat and stir in mashed banana and pureed blueberries.
3. Let cool to room temperature or slightly warm before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tips:
– For babies under 8 months, omit the honey.
– You can adjust the amount of blueberries to your baby’s taste.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Broccoli and Cauliflower Mash
Get ready to enjoy a deliciously healthy twist on mashed potatoes! This Broccoli and Cauliflower Mash is a perfect side dish for any occasion, packed with nutrients and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, broken into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or grated cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss broccoli and cauliflower with 1 tablespoon of butter and season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large pot, combine roasted broccoli and cauliflower, remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, and milk or heavy cream.
5. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy, adding salt, pepper, and any desired flavorings as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Stew
Lentil and Vegetable Stew Recipe
Summary: A hearty and nutritious stew made with red lentils, a variety of colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Zucchini and Apple Puree
This unique puree combines the natural sweetness of apples with the subtle flavor of zucchinis, creating a delicious and healthy snack or side dish. Perfect for toddlers and adults alike!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 large apple (any variety), peeled and chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chopped zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the zucchinis in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted zucchinis, chopped apple, honey (if using), and cinnamon (if using).
5. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Mash
This comforting dish combines tender chicken with creamy sweet potato mash, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add sweet potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Place chicken back in the skillet with sweet potatoes. Transfer everything to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove from oven, mash sweet potatoes with butter, and serve alongside chicken.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peach and Yogurt Blend
This refreshing summer treat combines sweet peaches with creamy yogurt, perfect for a hot day or as a light snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced peaches and honey. Mix until the peaches are well coated with the honey.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the yogurt, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Fold the yogurt mixture into the peach mixture until well combined.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration only)
Pumpkin and Coconut Milk Puree
This smooth and creamy puree is a perfect fall treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of coconut milk. It’s a great addition to your holiday menu or a delightful snack for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), cooked and mashed
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the mashed pumpkin, coconut milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level to your liking.
4. Transfer the puree to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! This puree is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Beetroot and Apple Mash
This vibrant mash combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of beetroot, creating a unique and delicious side dish perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and chopped
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the chopped beetroot in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pan, sauté the chopped apple in butter until caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once the beetroot is cooked, let it cool slightly then mash with roasted garlic (optional).
5. Add the caramelized apples, heavy cream or milk, and salt to taste. Mix well.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Turkey and Rice Porridge
A comforting and nourishing breakfast or brunch option, this Turkey and Rice Porridge is a twist on the classic porridge recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced turkey breast and cook until lightly browned, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the cooked rice, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the porridge has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mango and Chia Seed Pudding
A refreshing and nutritious dessert that combines the sweetness of mango with the omega-rich goodness of chia seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chia seeds
– 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chia seeds and soak them in almond milk for at least 30 minutes to allow them to gel.
2. If using sweetener, add it to the chia seed mixture and stir well.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the diced mango and vanilla extract.
4. Fold the mango mixture into the chia seed pudding until well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of sweetener to your taste.
– Use fresh mango for the best flavor and texture.
– You can also add other fruits, nuts, or spices to create unique variations.
Green Bean and Potato Puree
A delicious and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any meal. This puree combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the earthiness of potatoes, all blended together in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or grated cheddar cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the green beans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with butter, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
3. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted green beans, cooked potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add garlic powder or grated cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pear and Millet Baby Cereal
Wholesome pears and nutritious millet come together in this simple recipe to create a tasty and healthy baby cereal that’s perfect for little ones. This homemade baby food is easy to prepare and can be customized to your child’s taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup rolled millet
– 1 tablespoon breast milk or formula (optional)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the diced pears and millet.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add breast milk or formula if desired to achieve your child’s preferred consistency.
4. Thin out the mixture with water if necessary.
5. Spoon the baby cereal into an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to serve immediately.
Cod and Carrot Puree
This cod and carrot puree recipe is a great way to prepare a healthy and delicious meal. The combination of flaky cod, sweet carrots, and creamy potatoes will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place cod fillets on the sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss carrots and potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a separate baking sheet.
4. Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Remove cod from oven when cooked through (about 12-15 minutes).
6. Blend roasted carrots and potatoes with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Serve alongside baked cod.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 nutritious baby recipes suitable for 9-12 month olds to support healthy growth. From classic combinations like Sweet Potato and Carrot Puree, to sweet treats like Avocado Banana Mash, this collection has something for every little one. Enjoy wholesome meals with Quinoa Apple Cinnamon Porridge, Butternut Squash and Pea Puree, and many more! These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for busy parents seeking a healthy start for their babies. Try them out and give your little one the best possible foundation for a lifetime of good health!
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