First foods database

🫘 Refried beans for babies: when and how to serve it

Can babies eat refried beans? Yes, from about 6 months, if they are homemade or a low-salt variety. Refried beans are smooth, spreadable and rich in plant protein and iron, which makes them an easy spread for tortilla strips and toast.

From 6 monthsLow choking risk when prepared wellIron rich

Good source of: Protein, Iron, Fibre, Folate

How to serve refried beans by age

6 to 9 months

Make your own by cooking pinto or black beans with onion, garlic and mild cumin, then mashing with a little oil and water until smooth. Spoon-feed, or spread thinly on soft tortilla strips or toast fingers.

9 to 12 months

Spread on soft quesadilla triangles with grated cheese, or serve as a dip for steamed vegetable sticks.

12 months and up

Refried beans in family burritos, tacos and bean bowls. Tinned refried beans vary a lot in salt, so check labels.

Choking safety

Smooth refried beans are low risk. Spread thinly, as a thick layer of sticky paste can be hard to clear from the mouth.

Gagging is common and noisy while babies learn to eat. Choking is usually silent. Always stay with your baby while they eat, sitting upright. How to help a choking baby (NHS).

Good to know

Many tinned refried beans are salty and some contain lard: check labels.
Pair with vitamin C rich foods, such as tomato or pepper, to help iron absorption.

Easy ideas

Refried beans on soft tortilla strips
Bean and cheese quesadilla triangles
Refried beans with avocado and rice

Goes well with

🌯Tortilla wrapFrom 6 months · Gluten 🥑AvocadoFrom 6 months 🧀CheddarFrom 6 months · Milk 🍚RiceFrom 6 months

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Questions parents ask

Can babies eat refried beans?

Are tinned refried beans OK for babies?

Some are high in salt. Choose a low-salt version or make your own, which is quick with tinned beans in water.

Can refried beans make babies windy?

Beans can cause a little wind. Start with small amounts and build up.

Sources

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).