At this time of year the picking for seasonal fruits to feed your baby can be slim. However, when the kids and I went to our local farmer's market this past weekend, a myriad apples in tons of varieties were abundant: Pink Ladies, Golden Delicious, Gala, Fuji and more -- all sweet, crispy and delicious. Apples are one of those fruits that make the most delicious homemade baby food because when pureed, their texture is smooth and sweet -- perfect for brand new eaters.
I came up with this Apple Walnut Puree recipe for Parents Magazine as a part of an article on nuts for kids of any age. In the last few years there has been quite a bit of controversy about giving kids nuts before the age of 1, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recently changed their stance on the issue, suggesting that it is safe for babies to be consuming nuts as a part of their diets.* As long as nuts are in the form of a smooth nut butter or pureed very fine (whole or pieces of nuts still present a choking hazard to children under the age of 4), they are an excellent source of protein and important for babies growing bodies. Walnuts in particular are rich in Omega 3's.
This puree is so delicious that my kids, even though they are past the puree stage, eagerly devoured it. I don't know why I was surprised. When you think about how much most kids love apple sauce, it makes total sense why this puree should be an easy sell to any little one from 8 months or older since it's just like a nutty applesauce. And given that I caught my husband finishing the last batch I made the kids, I'd wager you may even win over some older fans as well.
*If your family has a history of food allergies or if you have any concerns, I highly recommend speaking to your pediatrician befor
e offering nuts to babies or kids.
Apple Walnut Puree (Makes 6 Serving)
Ingredients
- 2 apples, cored and peeled (pink lady, fuji, or gala are all good choices)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, shelled & halved
- 1/8 teaspoons cinnamon
Preparation
- 1. Place apples and walnuts in a steamer pot over boiling water.
- 2. Cook for 7 minutes or until apples are fork tender.
- 3. Place apples, walnuts, cinnamon and 3 tbsp of the water from the steamer pot in a food processor and puree for 3 minutes or until smooth.
- 4. Cool and serve.
- *If your family has a history of food allergies or if you have any concerns, I highly recommend speaking to your pediatrician before offering nuts to babies or kids.
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