Add some spice and flavor to baby food

Babies like a little flavor. I mean, how would you like bland purees day in and day out? If you haven't ever made homemade baby food read this handy guide: How to make quick and healthy homemade baby food. Then add some spices or herbs - here are some basic baby rules when adding spices to homemade (or jarred) baby food...

• Go by the single food item rule for spices. For example, your baby should only have carrots for a couple of days before you give her pears. This allows you to see if a food allergy pops up. Follow this same rule for spices and herbs. Don't add both mint and cilantro to your baby's food, until you know she can have both.
• When using fresh herbs, make sure you chop them up small.
• When using dried herbs and spices a tiny pinch is all you need. A little dried spice goes a long way. I wouldn't use more than 1/8 teaspoon of any herb or spice per 1/2 cup baby food.
• Some herbs and spices have added benefits for your baby. Mint and ginger can sooth a sore tummy and nutmeg has been shown to calm your mood. See more health benefits of herbs and spices.
• Avoid the hot spices until your baby is older. Hot pepper and mustard seed aren't the best additions to baby food.

Good herb and spice additions for babies:

• Add cinnamon or nutmeg to pumpkin, apples, or pears.
• Add mint to peas, potatoes, or berries.
• Add lemongrass to broccoli and carrots.
• Add cilantro to melon or avocado.
• Add ginger to lentils, bananas, or apples.

Really you can try just about any combo. If you need ideas, look in your own cookbooks at home. If a recipe for a veggie side dish or a main meal (beans - meat) calls for a herb or spice, it's a good bet that this combo will make a yummy baby meal as well.