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

Sweet Potato Puree: A Gentle Start

This simple sweet potato puree is a perfect first food for babies. It's naturally sweet, easily digestible, and packed with essential nutrients like Vitamin A and fiber. Follow this easy recipe for a smooth and delicious puree that your baby will love. Sweet potatoes are a great source of beta-carotene, which is important for vision and immune system development.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
20-25 minutes
Servings
Approximately 1 cup
Ingredients
  • 1 medium Sweet Potato
  • 2-4 tablespoons Water or Breast Milk/Formula

Preparation

Thoroughly wash and scrub the sweet potato. Peeling is optional; however, for a smoother puree, especially for younger babies, it's recommended to peel the sweet potato.

Cooking

Cut the sweet potato into 1-inch cubes. Steaming is the preferred method to retain the most nutrients. Place the sweet potato cubes in a steamer basket over simmering water. Steam for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potato is very tender and easily pierced with a fork. Alternatively, you can boil the sweet potato cubes in a small amount of water until tender, or roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until soft.

Pureeing

Transfer the cooked sweet potato cubes 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. For a very smooth puree, you may need to scrape down the sides of the blender several times.

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 90 kcal Carbohydrates: Approximately 20g Fiber: Approximately 3g Sugars: Approximately 6g Protein: Approximately 2g Vitamin A: Significantly high, providing over 100% of the daily recommended intake for infants. Vitamin C: Good source of Vitamin C.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing solid foods to your baby. Observe your baby for any signs of allergies or sensitivities, such as rash, hives, or digestive upset. Introduce new foods one at a time, waiting a few days between each new food. This allows you to easily identify any potential allergens. Start with small amounts (1-2 tablespoons) and gradually increase the portion size as your baby gets used to the taste and texture.

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FAQ

  • How do I know if my baby is ready for sweet potato puree?

    Signs of readiness include being able to sit up with support, having good head control, showing interest in food, and being able to move food from a spoon to their throat.
  • Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

    Yes, frozen sweet potatoes can be used. Make sure they are plain sweet potatoes without any added ingredients. Cook them according to package directions and then puree as directed.
  • My baby doesn't seem to like it. What should I do?

    It may take several tries for your baby to accept a new food. Try offering it again a few days later. You can also mix it with a food they already enjoy, such as breast milk or formula.