Chicken, Broccoli & Potato Mash
A nutritious and balanced mash perfect for introducing new flavors and textures to babies around 8-9 months. It combines familiar favorites like potato and chicken with broccoli for added vitamins and fiber.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup small broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small potato, peeled and diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/4 cup cooked boneless chicken, finely shredded or diced (about 1 oz)
- 1 tsp olive oil or unsalted butter (optional)
- A pinch of dried basil or dill (optional)
Instructions
Peel and dice the potato into small, even pieces. This ensures even cooking.
Place the diced potato in a small saucepan and cover with water.
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the broccoli florets to the saucepan with the potatoes.
Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until both the potatoes and broccoli are very tender and easily mashable. Broccoli should be soft to the touch.
Drain the potatoes and broccoli thoroughly, removing all excess water.
If using raw chicken, cook by boiling or steaming until cooked through. Finely shred or dice the cooked chicken into very small pieces.
In a bowl, combine the drained potatoes, broccoli, and shredded or diced chicken.
Add the olive oil or unsalted butter (if using) to the bowl. This adds healthy fats and improves the texture.
Using a fork or potato masher, mash all the ingredients together until you reach a desired consistency. For younger babies, a smoother mash is ideal; older babies can handle slightly chunkier textures.
If the mash is too thick, add a tablespoon of the cooking water or warm formula/breast milk to thin it out.
Add a tiny pinch of dried basil or dill (if using) to enhance the flavor. Mix well to distribute the herbs evenly.
Allow the mash to cool slightly before serving to ensure it is not too hot for the baby.
Before serving, check the temperature to ensure it is safe for the baby. Offer small spoonfuls and encourage chewing/gumming.
Safety Notes
- Adult supervision required during all cooking and feeding stages.
- Ensure the potato and broccoli are cooked until very soft to prevent choking.
- Check the temperature of the mash before serving to avoid burns.
- Cut chicken into very small, easily manageable pieces.
- Be aware of potential allergic reactions when introducing new foods. Start with small amounts and observe the baby for any adverse reactions.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: Approximately 100 kcal per serving
Protein: 8g
Carbs: 12g
Fat: 3g