Healthy & Special Diets > Recipes for Specific Life Stages > Baby Food Recipes (Homemade) > Nutrient-Rich Baby Food Combinations
Avocado & Banana Mash
A simple and creamy combination providing healthy fats, potassium, and essential nutrients for your growing baby. Avocado offers healthy monounsaturated fats crucial for brain development, while banana provides potassium and a natural sweetness. Suitable for babies around 6 months and older.
Ingredients
- 1/2 ripe Avocado
- 1/2 ripe Banana
- 1-2 tablespoons Breast Milk/Formula (optional)
Preparation
Peel the avocado and banana. Ensure the avocado is ripe and soft.
Mashing
In a small bowl, mash the avocado and banana together using a fork until smooth. If you prefer a very smooth consistency, you can use a blender or food processor.
Adjusting Consistency
If the mixture is too thick, add breast milk or formula one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. This is especially helpful for younger babies who may prefer a thinner puree.
Serving and Storage
Serve immediately. Due to the avocado's tendency to brown, it's best to prepare this mash just before serving. If you must store it, place it in an airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to minimize oxidation. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. However, the texture and color may change.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Calories: Approximately 120-140 kcal Fat: 8-10g (primarily healthy monounsaturated fats) Carbohydrates: 15-18g Potassium: High
Other Important Considerations for Nutrition
Avocado is a great source of healthy fats, but it's also relatively high in calories. Start with small portions and gradually increase as your baby's appetite grows. Always supervise your baby during feeding and introduce new foods one at a time to monitor for any allergic reactions. Consult with your pediatrician for personalized feeding advice.
FAQ
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Can I freeze this puree?
Freezing is not recommended due to the avocado's texture changing upon thawing. It becomes mushy and may not be as appealing to your baby. -
My avocado is not perfectly ripe. Can I still use it?
It's best to use a ripe avocado for optimal flavor and texture. An unripe avocado will be difficult to mash and may have a bitter taste. If it's just slightly firm, you can try placing it in a paper bag with a banana or apple for a day or two to help it ripen. -
How can I avoid the avocado from browning?
The browning is due to oxidation. Add a squeeze of lemon juice (only a little) but make sure your baby like the taste before prepare it.