Beetroot comes in several varieties of differing colour. Purple beetroot is the most common, but red and yellow varieties are available. All are nutritious, though some babies experience mild tummy problems, and the skins are particularly hard to digest so should always be removed. Even adults sometimes have problems digesting beetroot skin.
Beetroot is good for baby (and you):
Beetroot is, of course, high in fibre to benefit the digestive system, but also provides excellent amounts of vitamin A – very important to the healthy development of the immune system and the eyes. Beetroot also contains calcium, which contributes to strong bones and teeth, and potassium, which is valuable for vision, muscle and nerve development.
Hints on buying and storing:
- If possible, buy beetroot with the leaves still on – they can show how long the beetroot has been on the shelf, and will help it stay fresh for longer.
- A little dirt is no problem.
- Choose smaller beetroots – they will be more flavourful, tender, and easier to digest.
- Check for damage or blemishes.
- At home, remove the leaves and place beetroot in an airtight container in the vegetable storage compartment of the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Tips on cooking:
- Scrub well, cut off the green leaves, and peel the beetroot.
- Steaming helps make vitamin A more bio-available for the body to use.
- Steaming gives the best texture for a smooth puree.
- Beetroot may be baked, using a little water to prevent it from drying out.
Ideas for ways of including beetroot in your baby’s meals:
- Combine cooked beetroot with cooked apple.
- Mix with cooked white potato, peas, squash or courgette (zucchini).
- Add to brown rice or lentils.
- Include in chicken or pork dishes.
- Blend with tofu.
Please remember: Always consult your baby’s paediatrician or doctor about introducing new foods.
This information presented to you acts as a guide which contains researched information only and is not intended to replace advice from a qualified health professional.
More about Baby Recipes
At babyrecipes.org there is lots of very useful information that is right here on our baby recipes website. There are easy to use baby food guides, making baby food and related topics to help you feed your baby with lots of care. There is a wide range of baby food information available to you which will better inform you when it comes to the health and safety of your baby. Learn about what baby food you should introduce to your baby and at what age. Find out more about what the benefits of individual baby food and how they can be good for your baby.
There is a great range of baby recipes for you to choose from. The baby recipes are easy to find and easy to follow with step by step instructions. When cooking food for baby you only want the best naturally. Our baby recipes provides the best food baby will need, full of nutrition and well balanced. Having a baby is an all consuming experience and this baby recipes website has been put together to help parents have a great resource to refer to as a guide or when you want to cook up tasty baby food from one of our baby recipes for your baby.