TERRIFIC RECIPES TO TRY

I. Sweet Potato Puree

Age to introduce: 6 months

Wash, peel, and chop 2 large or 3 medium sweet potatoes. Place sweet potatoes and 2 tablespoons water into a microwave-safe dish. Cover with plastic wrap. Cook 8-10 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes. Place sweet potatoes and cooking liquid in a blender or food processor, along with about 1/2 cup water. Puree. Add more water, if needed. Alternatively, prick sweet potatoes with a fork and bake in an oven until done. Scoop out meat and puree with water to form a smooth puree. Set aside a portion to serve baby. Spoon the rest into ice cube trays and freeze. Variation: When serving baby, add a serving of pureed apples or mashed bananas.

II. Carrot-Banana Smoothie

Age to introduce: 8 months

In a blender, puree freshly chopped carrots and chunks of frozen banana with fresh carrot juice or water. Variation: Replace banana with frozen mango chunks.

Age to introduce: 10 months, or finger-food age

Puree approx. 1/2 cup cooked peas with a small amount of water in a food processor. Mix in with your favorite pancake mix and prepare as directed. Freeze leftover pancakes. Variation: Pureed carrots, broccoli, and other vegetables also work.