We’re at that stage where James is on three meals a day. That means exactly what all mamas with young babies know it means: The pressure is on. Gone are the days when all I needed were my boobs and a nappy or two. Also it’s been over five years since I pureed a meal and while I never thought things could change that much in this department I am actually discovering all sorts of new information and food combinations.
Honestly I can’t remember what I used to serve Georgie when he was seven months old. There was a lot of Weetabix and porridge involved and of course bananas and apples. Oh and I remember a lamb dish I prepared when he was around nine months old. The most disgusting thing I have ever managed to make. Suffice to say I had all the time in the world to cook and experiment.
With James time is an issue. I want something that’s healthy, quick and portable because I take him with me everywhere I go and I go out ALOT. So I’ve nailed down some of his favourite food combinations that are easy to put together.
Avocado + Banana: Avocado was James’ first food. We sat him in his little seat, turned on the radio and all the cameras and oohed and aahed for a good 20 minutes while he ate four spoonfuls. Interesting fact about James’ first moment with food: While we fed him avocado, Pearl Jam’s ‘Gone’ was playing on the radio. A song from their album referred to as The Avocado Album! Ha! James’ godmother and I are huge Pearl Jam fans as you probably know from here and here. So yes to avocado with banana and even a dash of almond milk. And of course Pearl Jam on the radio.
Sweet potato + Pear: I made a batch of sweet potato puree and was about to leave the house when I realised there was no way it would be enough for my little man. So I grabbed a pear I had roasted the previous day and blended it with the potato. I added some cinammon and since then it’s been one of his favourite meals.
Chicken + Apple: James’ had his first serving of chicken this past weekend. I got my hands on some fresh organic fillets and roasted them with some olive oil. I then added some organic applesauce. Yum! Other combinations with chicken included courgette, carrot and sweet potato.
Butternut squash +Pear: I love butternut squash. My local health food store sells it in pieces too so I don’t have to roast a whole one when all I need is a little bit for James. So roasted butternut squash and a little sprinkle of cinammon and that’s it. I’ve also added almond milk on one or two occasions.
Apple + Peas: I tried peas and potatoes with a dash of almond milk but he hated it. So I gave this combo a go and success. You can even add some baby spinach to this one.
Butternut squash + Brown Rice: You could also make this with quinoa. I added some almond milk to help smooth out the rice texture.
So there you have it. Easy, healthy and excellently mixed and matched. What I’ve learnt this time around is that really almost anything goes (always check with your doctor before serving something new) and preparing food for a baby can actually be interesting. What are your baby’s favourite first food combinations? I’d love to hear some new ideas!
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