Last night’s dinner was nothing short of a miracle. After nearly a year of repeatedly putting roast chicken on my 4-year-old’s dinner plate, she actually picked up a wing and bit into it…without freaking out. Granted she only took a bite, but at least she finally gave it a try without bursting in hysterics (her older sister can vouch for the sincerity of my word choice). For those of you who have picky eaters (and I’m guessing that’s most of us, at one time or another), it’s extremely easy to lose hope of your child ever consuming healthy nutrients that are not in liquid form. And if you refuse to be one of those parents who makes a separate meal for your fussy non-foodie, then join the club…and then go pick up a copy of Bountiful Baby Purees. Ideal for any household with a toddler having a hard time adjusting to table food, this cookbook joins the ranks of other like-minded reads that cleverly disguise good-for-you foods as part of a nutritious meal. What sets this book apart from its counterparts is the versatile appeal of the recipes that lend themselves to the rest of the family. For instance, apple, squash and raisin puree for your little one can be turned into spiced mini muffins for the older kids (and grown-ups, too). Kale and banana puree do double duty in a side dish of green quinoa…and the list goes on. If you’re a fan of seasonal cooking, you’ll appreciate that Bountiful Baby Purees is divided into sections by month, including special ideas for holiday meals. So, grab an apron and start cooking!
In a Nutshell: Chew on this…here’s a cookbook for young families teeming with multitasking dishes that may just help introduce your baby to the world of “real food.”
