Baby and toddler recipes

🍎 Beetroot and apple pink first purée

An earthy beetroot purée lifted with cooked apple, in a colour babies love to look at. Beetroot is a source of folate and introduces a deeper, earthier flavour early on.

From 6 monthsPrep 10 minCook 35 minFreezes wellNone of the 14 major allergens

Makes about 8 ice cube portions

Ingredients

  • 2 small raw beetroot (about 150g) Beetroot (peeled and diced small)
  • 1 eating apple Apple (peeled, cored and chopped)
  • 3 to 4 tbsp water

Method

  1. Simmer the diced beetroot in a small pan of water for 25 minutes.
  2. Add the apple and cook for 8 to 10 minutes more until both are very soft.
  3. Blend until smooth with a little of the cooking water.
  4. Cool to warm before serving.

Serving it to your baby

Pop a bib on and expect pink everything; beetroot can also colour nappies and wee pink or red, which is harmless. As baby gets more confident, mash instead of blending and stir into plain yoghurt.

For the rest of the family

Roast extra beetroot for an adult salad with goat's cheese and walnuts.

Storing and reheating

Cool quickly (within an hour), then keep in a covered container in the fridge for up to 2 days, or freeze in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight, reheat until steaming hot all the way through, stir, then cool to warm before serving. Never reheat more than once.

Weaning with OBubba

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Questions parents ask

Why is my baby's nappy red after beetroot?

Beetroot pigment can pass straight through and colour poo and wee red or pink. It is harmless and fades within a day or two.

Can I use vacuum-packed cooked beetroot?

Yes, as long as it is plain and not in vinegar. Check the label for added salt or sugar, then blend with the cooked apple.

OBubba gives general information based on UK guidance. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose anything. Every baby is different. If your baby has a known allergy, severe eczema or a medical condition, speak to your doctor or health visitor before starting solids. Learn baby first aid, and in an emergency call your local emergency number (999 in the UK).