Every phase from babyhood to toddlerhood comes with its own set of challenges, and eating is no different. It can be difficult to get our littles to eat at all, much less eat something new or, dare we say it, healthy. However, a diverse diet helps your babe build a well-rounded nutritional palate and robust immune system that will help set them up for a lifetime of health. Not to mention, it is so important to make sure that they try a wide variety of food from a young age in order to avoid picky habits and grow into a seasoned, adventurous eater. Here are a few of our favorite ways to introduce new spices, flavors and, eventually, whole new cuisines to our minis.
For your baby
Ginger
Ginger is an awesome, immune-boosting addition to your baby’s foods. It has a distinct, warm taste that will help to expand your little’s palate over time. The many benefits of ginger include supporting digestion and preventing constipation (huge win for us parents). Not down for peeling cubes of ginger root? Check out Little Spoon’s Apple Carrot Ginger Babyblend.
Mint
Another amazing herb to incorporate into your mini’s diet is mint. Mint has a high antioxidant content and even helps relieve indigestion. Little Spoon’s Pea Pear Mint Babyblend is a perfect way to introduce this refreshing flavor to your babe.
Hemp
Although this ingredient may sound daunting, hemp seeds are rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids which are crucial for healthy development of the eyes, brain, and entire nervous system. Plus, as we all know, it can be incredibly difficult to ensure that your babe is getting enough protein when it comes to solids. With more than 25% of its calories coming from protein, hemp seeds are a great way to sneak it in. This nutritional powerhouse is featured in our Broccoli Pineapple Banana Hemp Babyblend.
Turmeric
Turmeric is packed with antioxidants and has powerful anti-inflammatory effects. This spice is frequently used to flavor Asian dishes and is the perfect way to prime your little’s palate for more diverse flavors and cuisines, particularly when paired with other whole foods like in Little Spoon’s complex Sweet Potato Apple Red Bell Pepper Turmeric and Carrot Mango Coconut Milk Turmeric Babyblends.
For your toddler
Chicken Teriyaki with Quinoa Veggie Stir Fry
This dish is the perfect way to introduce more diverse flavors to your mini. Teriyaki originates from Japanese immigrants who arrived in Hawaii and combined soy sauce with the local pineapple and brown sugar. While it might be a new and different flavor for your kiddo, Little Spoon’s Chicken Teriyaki has a sweet and approachable taste with antibiotic-free chicken breast topped in a low-sodium teriyaki sauce and served with a light stir fry of quinoa and fresh veggies.
Cheesy Black Bean Pupusas with Southwest Veggie Quinoa
Pupusas are a simple and classic Central American dish, hailing originally from El Salvador, made from corn masa. Little Spoon’s mini version is stuffed with black beans and cheese and served served atop veggie quinoa. Fluffy and flavorful, these make for the perfect finger food when your mini is ready to transition to the good stuff.
Southwest Chicken Fajita Bowl with Veggie Spanish Rice
This Tex Mex classic is another approachable way to introduce new spices such as cumin and coriander to your little. Little Spoon’s fajitas include antibiotic-free chicken breast lightly seasoned with Southwest inspired spices and served atop veggie Spanish rice.
Chicken Potstickers with Quinoa Veggie Stir Fry and Edamame
What better way to integrate Chinese-style cuisine into your mini’s diet than with chicken pot stickers AKA Chinese dumplings (Warning: they might get hooked). But don’t worry, Little Spoon’s take on this fan-favorite is definitely a healthier option than your go-to takeout spot. Made with antibiotic-free chicken and veggies wrapped in a thin dough these best-selling pot stickers are the ideal finger food for dipping!
