Creative Broccoli Puree Combinations with Fruits and Protein for Babies – Part 2

By Erika Barabás

Let’s explore delicious and nutritious broccoli puree combinations with fruits and proteins! These recipes offer balanced flavors and nutrients perfect for babies ready for more complex meals.

As your baby becomes comfortable with vegetables, it’s time to introduce them to the exciting world of fruits and proteins. Broccoli’s slightly bitter flavor pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of fruits and the protein-rich benefits of meats and legumes. These purees are perfect for babies 6+ months who are ready to discover new textures and flavors.

1. Broccoli and Apple Puree

Best for: 6-8 months (Starting solids)

The sweetness of apples helps balance out the bitterness of broccoli, making this a perfect introduction to fruit-based purees.

Ingredients:

• 1 small bunch of broccoli (cut into florets)
• 1 apple (peeled, cored, and chopped)
• Water, breast milk, or formula (for blending)

Instructions:

• Prepare the Apple: Peel and chop the apple into small pieces.
• Cook the Vegetables: Steam the broccoli until tender. Steam or boil the apple pieces until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
• Blend: Blend both the apple and broccoli together with water, breast milk, or formula to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Cool and Serve: Let the puree cool to room temperature before serving.

2. Broccoli and Banana Puree

Best for: 6-8 months (Mild, naturally sweet combination)

Bananas are soft, easy to digest, and full of potassium, making them the ideal fruit to pair with broccoli.

Ingredients:

• 1 small bunch of broccoli (cut into florets)
• 1 ripe banana (peeled)
• Water, breast milk, or formula (for blending)

Instructions:

• Prepare the Banana: Peel the banana and break it into chunks.
• Cook the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli until tender, about 7-8 minutes.
• Blend: Combine the steamed broccoli and banana in a blender. Add water, breast milk, or formula as needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Cool and Serve: Allow the puree to cool before serving.

3. Broccoli and Chicken Puree

Best for: 8-10 months (Protein introduction)

Chicken is a lean protein that, when paired with broccoli, creates a well-rounded meal for babies transitioning to solid foods.

Ingredients:

• 1 small bunch of broccoli (cut into florets)
• 1 small boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Water, breast milk, or formula (for blending)

Instructions:

• Prepare the Chicken: Boil or steam the chicken breast until fully cooked (about 10-12 minutes).
• Cook the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli until tender.
• Blend: Combine the chicken and broccoli in a blender and blend until smooth. Add liquid as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
• Cool and Serve: Allow the puree to cool to room temperature before serving.

4. Broccoli and Lentil Puree

Best for: 8-10 months (protein introduction)

The combination of lentils and broccoli creates a well-rounded meal that supports your baby’s muscle development, immune system, and digestive health.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup dried lentils (green, brown, or red)
• 1 small bunch of broccoli (cut into florets)
• 2 cups water or baby-friendly vegetable broth
• A small amount of breast milk, formula, or water for blending (optional, for added creaminess)

Instructions:

• Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any dust or impurities. Add the lentils and water in a small saucepan (about 2 cups of water for every 1/4 cup of lentils). Let the lentils cook for about 20-30 minutes (depending on the type of lentil). Red lentils cook faster than green or brown lentils.
• Steam the broccoli: While the lentils are cooking, steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Steaming helps preserve the nutrients and makes it easier for babies to digest.
• Blend: Place the cooked lentils and steamed broccoli into a blender or food processor. Add a little liquid (breast milk, formula, or water) to help with blending, especially if you want a smoother consistency. You can also use the cooking water from the lentils or a small amount of baby-friendly broth.
• Cool and serve: Allow the puree to cool to room temperature before serving to your baby.

Lentils provide a great source of plant-based protein, iron, and fiber. Iron is essential for your baby’s cognitive development and preventing anemia. Lentils also help with digestion due to their fiber content.

Ensure that the puree is well-blended for younger babies. For older babies, you can leave the puree slightly chunky.

Joyful cooking, and enjoy exploring these creative broccoli puree combinations with your baby!

Creative Broccoli Puree Combinations with Vegetables for Babies – Part 1