Healthy & Special Diets > Recipes for Specific Life Stages > Baby Food Recipes (Homemade) > Stage 1 Baby Food (Purees)

Green Bean Puree: A Nutritious Choice

Introduce your baby to the goodness of green beans with this simple and nutritious puree. Green beans are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to your baby's diet. This recipe is easy to prepare and provides a smooth texture that's perfect for babies starting solids. Green beans are rich in Vitamins A, C, and K, important for growth and development.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
8-10 minutes
Servings
Approximately 1 cup
Ingredients
  • 1 cup Fresh or Frozen Green Beans
  • 2-4 tablespoons Water or Breast Milk/Formula

Preparation

Wash the green beans thoroughly. If using fresh green beans, trim the ends. If using frozen green beans, no preparation is needed.

Cooking

Steam the green beans. Place the green beans in a steamer basket over simmering water. Steam for 8-10 minutes, or until the green beans are tender. Alternatively, you can boil the green beans in a small amount of water until tender. Ensure the green beans are cooked until very soft to make them easy to puree.

Pureeing

Transfer the cooked green beans to a blender or food processor. Add 2 tablespoons of water, breast milk, or formula. Blend until smooth. Add more liquid, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Ensure there are no lumps for a smooth texture. For a younger baby, achieving an ultra-smooth puree is critical.

Serving and Storage

Let the puree cool slightly before serving. Test the temperature to ensure it's not too hot for your baby. You can store the leftover puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To freeze, portion the puree into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw frozen puree in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave using the defrost setting. Always ensure the puree is heated thoroughly and cooled before feeding.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: Approximately 30 kcal Carbohydrates: Approximately 7g Fiber: Approximately 2g Sugars: Approximately 2g Protein: Approximately 2g Vitamin A: Good source of Vitamin A. Vitamin C: Good source of Vitamin C. Vitamin K: Excellent source of Vitamin K.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing solid foods to your baby. Introduce new foods one at a time, waiting a few days between each new food to monitor for allergies. Observe your baby for any signs of allergies or sensitivities. Start with small amounts (1-2 tablespoons) and gradually increase the portion size as your baby gets used to the taste and texture. Choose organic green beans whenever possible to minimize pesticide exposure.

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FAQ

  • Can I use canned green beans?

    Fresh or frozen green beans are preferred over canned due to the lower sodium content. If using canned, choose low-sodium or no-salt-added varieties and rinse them thoroughly before cooking.
  • What if the puree is too thick?

    Add a little more water, breast milk, or formula, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
  • My baby is constipated. Can green bean puree help?

    Green beans contain fiber, which can help with constipation. However, consult with your pediatrician if your baby is experiencing frequent or severe constipation.