Broccoli

From "Bits for Babies" - Broccoli Puree

Posted by Carole Koch

“Bits for Babies” is a new feature of the CSA Newsletter. The column will appear periodically during the season and will feature recipes for baby meals, provided by CSA member Farah Apicella.

Farah’s small business, Fresh Family Organics, based here in Naperville, manufactures organic baby meals. She is actively committed to supporting Midwestern farmers who promote a sustainable ecosystem.

This week’s recipe features broccoli. Farah says: “Broccoli is a truly brilliant food for babies 6 months or older. [This veggie is]...packed with vitamin C, beta carotene, folic acid, potassium and anticancer phytonutrients.”

Broccoli Puree

1 cup of broccoli
3 cups of filtered water

Chop broccoli into 1-inch pieces and place in double boiler. Bring water to a low boil for 15 to 20 minutes. Do not overcook. Broccoli will be bright green but tender when finished. Place broccoli in a food processer. Do not discard cooking water.* Add ¼ cup of cooking water. Puree in food processor. Add more water for a smoother consistency, less water for a chunkier consistency. Serve immediately or freeze in ice cube trays for later use.

*Using the cooked water in the puree helps keep in vital nutrients that may have been lost in the cooking procedure.

Makes 6 to 8 ounces.

Alternative Recipe: Take steamed broccoli and chop into small bite-size pieces (about the size of O-shaped cereal) for a healthy finger food. This aids in the pincer (thumb and forefinger) grasp development of baby. Broccoli can be served warm or right from the fridge.

Thanks Farah!

From Fresh Family Organics, courtesy Farah Apicella, www.freshbabymeals.com.

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