When both my kiddos started eating solid foods at exactly six months old, I immediately introduced vegetables and fruits through homemade baby food that I lovingly prepared in my kitchen. I personally find homemade baby purees and mashes easier, tastier, and cheaper than store bought varieties. In addition to sweet potatoes and green beans, one of the first baby foods that I made for my son was peas.
Peas are very low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. The green vegetable is also a good source of protein, vitamin A, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, phosphorus, and copper and a very good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, thiamin, and manganese. I used the entire pea pod to increase the amount of fiber and nutrients in my homemade baby food.
To make my homemade baby food, I started with raw pea pods and some fluoride-free baby water. After washing and chopping the peas, I combined the pieces in a glass bowl with some water. I then cooked the pea pods in my microwave to tenderness. (You can also use the stove, but I prefer the ease of the microwave.)
After allowing the cooked pea pods to cool slightly, I spooned the veggies into my Baby Bullet with some additional water. I then blended the mixture into a thin puree. (For older babies, use less water for a thicker mash.) Once puréed, I spooned the peas into freezer containers and ice cube trays for easier freezing. After the puree froze, I moved the frozen cubes into freezer safe baggies for easier storage. Now as my son needs baby food, I simply thaw a few cubes of frozen peas in the refrigerator or microwave.
Does your baby like peas? Do you make your own baby food? Also try combining peas and green beans for a fun flavor combination.
Image Credits
Baby Food Recipes: Peas © 2015 Heather Johnson
Baby Water and Pea Pods © 2015 Heather Johnson
Cooked Pea Pods © 2015 Heather Johnson
Pureeing the Cooked Pea Pods © 2015 Heather Johnson
Homemade Pea Baby Food in Silicone Ice Cube Tray © 2015 Heather Johnson