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| My "go to" baby food cooking tools |
When I make baby food, my rule is to make as much as possible at once. I like to have the basics stored in the freezer and handy - plain pureed squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, peas/green beans, chicken and turkey and lots of fruits. I use the single foods to create different combination "meals" but I also like to a have number of pre-made meals for the hubby and Nana to be able to just pop into a bowl when I am not around.
Storage can be an issue, I found the best way to store food is to pour purees into an ice cube tray as soon as it is done, freeze it overnight and then pop out the little cubes of food and store in plastic freezer bags. I like to write name of the food and date it was made on the bag, and sometimes directions for the hubby, too. For things like pancakes or mini pizzas I freeze them flat individually on baking sheets or plates, once frozen I store them in plastic freezer bags also.
The quickest way to defrost is to microwave the cubes, I am not a huge fan of the microwave - I just feel that is zaps some of the nutrients - but hey, I am a busy mom and need the convenience. I am sure there are better ways, if you have any, please share!
To get information on how to make baby food, allergenic foods, food safety, food charts as well as some great recipes head over to wholesomebabyfood.com - I learned a lot from this site and encourage everyone to visit it!
To get information on how to make baby food, allergenic foods, food safety, food charts as well as some great recipes head over to wholesomebabyfood.com - I learned a lot from this site and encourage everyone to visit it!
There are several "must have" items in my kitchen for making baby and toddler food. There are also some "nice to have" items that just make things a little easier (in the photo above from left to right):
The Beaba Babycook is a nice to have item. I used the heck out of this little gadget when my son was 6 months to about 1 year old. It steams and purees in the same bowl. It is the quickest, cleanest way to make your own baby food. I use it now as a food processor because it has a great blade - I have even used it to make milkshakes in when my blender broke! If you can, get one. If you can't, you don't really need it :)
These are super cheesy, but I love my ove gloves! I don't use regular potholders at all anymore. In my book, these are a must-have!
Biscuit cutters in various sizes, work great as basic cookie cutters and to make toddler size sandwiches with no crust.
These are super cheesy, but I love my ove gloves! I don't use regular potholders at all anymore. In my book, these are a must-have!
Biscuit cutters in various sizes, work great as basic cookie cutters and to make toddler size sandwiches with no crust.
The cusinart mini-prep or full size food processor is great to puree foods that are fresh, baked, steamed or sauteed.
A good sharp paring knife and peelers - this serrated peeler in particular, I call it the "fuzzy fruit peeler". It makes peeling peaches, apricots and plums a breeze because it has a serrated blade.
A food mill is the good old low-tech standby. This one is made by green sprouts, but there are many brands that make good ones. I bring this with me when I go places so that my son eats the same food as we do. This is great for when your child is older and does not need as smooth of puree.
Lidded ice cube trays are a must must must-have. I could not do without these. I tried the fancy baby food storage containers, but they just took up too much room in my freezer. When I am out of the lidded ones, I use an open ice cube tray - but then you have to use plastic wrap over the top and ice gets all over the food.
A good, food safe counter-top cleaner. I love Mrs. Meyers products because they smell good and I feel totally OK using them around my baby. Bleach and ammonia cleaners are a no-no in my house with a little boy who has lung issues :) Tip - Mrs. Myers products are waaaay cheaper online than at the grocery store!
Another must-have, a cute little apron to cook with. Because let's face it, we all feel better when we cook in one - if we are slaving away over a hot stove at least we can look cute while we do it ;)
