There are many different methods for starting your baby on solid foods. And if you’re going the cereal route, why not make it at home? With these simple baby food cereal recipes, you’ll know exactly what ingredients you’re feeding your baby.
How to make baby rice cereal
Rice cereal has long been the traditional first food for babies, but according to the American Association of Pediatrics, there is no reason rice must be the first food. In fact, it’s best to introduce your infant to a variety of foods as he starts solids, like pureed fruits and veggies, or even meat. If you’d like start with rice cereal, here’s how to make it yourself.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup organic brown rice
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
- Using a food processor or blender grind the brown rice until it is a powder (this will take about a minute).
- Bring 1/2 cup of water to a boil.
- Sprinkle in 2 Tbsp. of the brown rice powder.
- Whisk continuously for 30 seconds. Then whisk occasionally for 4 to 5 minutes or until the mixture is thick and creamy.
Editor’s Tips:
- The rice powder can be stored in a sealed container for about a month.
- After mixing the powder with water, you can thin the cereal further with formula or breast milk.
- Don’t be afraid to add some flavor with mashed bananas or other pureed fruits!
How to make baby oatmeal cereal
Oatmeal cereal is a great choice for baby’s first food. It’s rich in protein, gluten-free (if you get the certified GF variety) and full of antioxidants. Before you spend money on a ready-made box, here’s how to whip up a batch yourself.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Using a food processor or blender, grind oats into a fine powder.
- Bring water to a boil in a small saucepan.
- Add oat powder.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes.
This cereal will thicken as it cools, but you can thin it out with breast milk or formula.
How to make baby food cereal with formula or breast milk
For baby’s first feeding, mix 1 Tbsp. cereal with about 4 to 5 Tbsp. of formula or breast milk. Because it’s Baby’s very first solid meal, you’ll want the cereal to be fairly runny, almost a liquid. This helps make the transition from liquids to solids a little easier. As your little one gets more familiar with eating solids, you can start mixing the cereal to a thicker consistency.
When your baby’s ready for finger foods, try these top picks.
The post The Only Baby Food Cereal Recipes You Need to Know appeared first on Taste of Home.
Erica Young