Comfort food is a wonderful thing and I like to cook it. My youngest son is 8-months-old now and ready for eating food with soft chunks in it - a step up from purees - so that he can practice chewing (even though he's still completely toothless!). I made him this blend of beef and veggies that tastes just like shepherd's pie. The whole house smelled yummy when it was baking in the oven, and he loved every bite from his tiny spoon.
Here's how I made it:
1/2 lb lean ground beef
4 1/2 cups potato, peeled and chopped into chunks
2 cups carrot, peeled and chopped into rounds
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup peas (I used frozen)
2 cups water
While the oven preheated to 375 degrees (F), I assembled my beef, potato, carrot, onion, and peas in a large ceramic casserole dish.
I covered my casserole dish with foil (so that the veggies would retain their moisture) and popped it in the oven for 45 minutes until the veggies were fork tender.
Next, I scooped all my cooked beef and veggies into my blender and added the water. There was enough food that I needed to do this in two steps, so I added one cup of water each time. Then I used the chop feature on my blender so that it ended up with a soft, chunky consistency. This step could also be done with a food processor or, if aiming for a smoother consistency, pureed in a blender.
Some of this baby food went right into a container in the fridge to be used within a couple days. The rest was spooned into silicone muffin trays and popped in the freezer for future meals. I store the blocks in freezer bags once they're frozen and warm them up in a small saucepan at mealtime.
I love feeding the baby. His enthusiasm, his little kicking feet, his mmms! He can't say thanks yet but he sure shows it. And those are the moments I cook for.
Are you feeding a baby these days? What is your little one enjoying from their tiny spoon? Got tips for making baby food? Share away!
