This recipe for pear baby food is quick to make (hello, busy parents!), and introducing it as early as four months is a tasty way to sneak in vitamins and fiber. Read this guide before you start introducing solids.
Are Pears Good for Babies?
Yes! They are easy to digest and loaded with essential minerals and nutrients, like potassium, vitamin C and folate. Pears are also a great healthy snack for grown-ups—satisfy your pear cravings with this mouthwatering pear tart.
How to Select the Right Pears
Look for pears that are firm and have no blemishes, bruises or other marks. Test for ripeness by pressing your finger against the top of the pear. There should be a small amount of give, but no softness anywhere else on the fruit.
It’s okay to buy unripe pears, though, because they will keep ripening at home.
How to Make Pear Puree
Ingredients:
- For this recipe, all you need is a pear or two!
Instructions
Step 1: Prep your fruit
Start by spritzing your fruit with a DIY produce wash made from lemon juice, vinegar and water. Peel with a vegetable peeler or paring knife. While pear skin is relatively easy to digest, it may still be difficult for infants.
Editor’s Tip: While all types of pears will work, the flavor and texture of Bartlett pears make it one of our favorites.
Step 2: Steam the pear
Core and roughly chop the pear into pieces that your food processor can handle. Place fruit in a steamer for three to five minutes, or place into a pot with about a cup of water, heat to high and cover with a lid. Stir occasionally, until pear is soft, about 20 to 30 minutes.
If your pear is already ripe and soft, you can skip this step.
Step 3: Perfectly puree
Let your steamed pears cool before placing into a food processor like this and whirring until smooth. You can also mash the mixture by hand.
What to Add to Your Puree
While delicious by itself, pear puree is the perfect vehicle for a little extra spice. With a dash of ginger powder or cinnamon, even mom won’t be able to resist a few spoonfuls!
You can slip in additional fruits and veggies, too. We recommend steamed butternut squash or carrots, as long as your baby is old enough to tolerate them.
How to Store Pear Baby Food
The puree can be refrigerated, as well as frozen. To freeze, pour it into ice cube trays or your container of choice, and let it cool before placing it in the freezer. When needed, thaw it at room temperature, or warm it on the oven or microwave.
The post How to Make Pear Baby Food appeared first on Taste of Home.
Kim Bussing