How to Cook Carrots for Baby Led Weaning
Baby led weaning (BLW) is an age-appropriate way to introduce babies to solid foods and encourages them to try different tastes and textures. Carrots make an ideal first food for baby led weaning because they are full of vitamins and minerals, as well as being a source of iron.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Carrots for Baby Led Weaning
- Peel the carrots if you choose to do so, making sure to remove any parts with green which can be tough or bitter for babies.
- Chop the carrots into coins no thicker than the diameter of a 10 pence piece or sticks no wider than a £1 coin.
- Steam the carrots over boiling water with a steamer for 8-10 minutes until tender enough for a knife to pierce through them with no resistance.
- Blend if required, adding a little water or breastmilk/formula to help create an appropriate texture.
- Coolby running the carrots under cold water and stirring. This will make suitable for a baby to eat it.
Tips for Feeding Carrots to Baby
- Whenever you are introducing a new food, always check with a health professional first as recommended.
- Be sure to cut the carrots into manageable pieces. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and cut into smaller pieces.
- Drinking water should be the main drink at mealtimes as babies can get dehydrated easily.
- Blend as required to produce a smooth texture that baby can swallow comfortably and easily.
- Encourage tasting and playing with the food as this helps develop hand-eye coordination, movement, and encourages eating.
- Be mindful of any foods that aren’t suitable for babies due to choking hazards, as recommended by your health professional.
Introducing solid food to babies is a big milestone that parents look forward to doing. Carrots are an ideal food for baby led weaning due to their nutritional content and versatility to cook. By following this guide, you can ensure that your baby is getting the best start to eating solid foods.