Pumpkin Chickpea Yum-Yum Purée
A creamy and nutritious purée combining the goodness of chickpeas and pumpkin for a delightful flavor and smooth texture that babies will love.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (unsalted, rinsed well)
- 1/2 cup cooked pumpkin or butternut squash purée (unsalted)
- 1/4 cup water (or breast milk/formula)
- Pinch of ground cumin (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Chickpeas: If using canned chickpeas, rinse them thoroughly under running water. This helps remove excess sodium.
Step 2: Soften Chickpeas (Optional): For extra softness, simmer the rinsed chickpeas in a small saucepan with water for 5-10 minutes. This makes them easier to purée.
Step 3: Peel Chickpea Skins (Optional): Gently squeeze a few chickpeas between your fingers to remove the outer skins. This will result in a smoother purée, but it's not essential.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the softened chickpeas and cooked pumpkin purée.
Step 5: Add Water (or Milk/Formula): Add 1/4 cup of water (or breast milk/formula) to the blender. This will help create a smooth consistency.
Step 6: Add Cumin (Optional): If desired, add a tiny pinch of ground cumin for a warm, earthy flavor.
Step 7: Purée Thoroughly: Blend the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy. Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
Step 8: Adjust Consistency: If the purée is too thick, add more water (or breast milk/formula) one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. It should be easily spoonable.
Step 9: Taste Test (for Adult): Before serving to your baby, taste the purée to ensure it's smooth and there are no lumps. Adjust the cumin if needed.
Step 10: Serve: Spoon a small amount of the purée into a clean bowl and offer it to your baby. Start with small bites and observe their reaction.
Step 11: Storage: Store any leftover purée in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Step 12: Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the purée in small, individual portions using an ice cube tray or small freezer-safe containers.
Step 13: Reheating: When ready to use, thaw the purée in the refrigerator or microwave. Add a little water (or breast milk/formula) if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
Step 14: Check Temperature: Always check the temperature of the purée before feeding it to your baby to ensure it's not too hot.
Safety Notes
- Adult supervision required during preparation and feeding.
- Ensure chickpeas are thoroughly cooked and soft to prevent choking.
- Introduce new foods one at a time to identify potential allergies.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 80 kcal per serving
Protein: 3g
Carbs: 15g
Fat: 1g