Cauliflower for Baby Food - Age for Introduction to Baby:
8-10 Months
The Goodness of Cauliflowers:
Cauliflower (like other veggies in the same family such as broccoli and brussel sprouts) is packed full of phytochemicals which are said to help prevent cancer. A cup of cauliflower is packed with Vitamin A, Vitamin C and even calcium! Cauliflower is a great addition to a healthy diet.
CAULIFLOWER: (1 cup - steamed)
VITAMINS:
Vitamin A - 175 IU
Vitamin C - 90 mg
Niacin - .8 mg
Folate - 51 mcg
Thiamine - .8 mg
Pantothenic Acid - .8 mg
Vitamin B6 - .25 mg
Contains some other vitamins in small amounts
MINERALS
Potassium - 354 mg
Sodium - 29 mg
Calcium - 40 mg
Phosphorus - 71 mg
Magnesium - 24 mg
Iron - .89 mg
Also contains small amounts of selenium, manganese, copper and zinc.
When can I introduce Cauliflower to my baby?
As with broccoli, cauliflower is not a good choice for one of Baby's first vegetables. It may cause gas and may also be a bit difficult for a young infant to digest. Cauliflower is best given to an infant between 8-10 months old. If your baby has had any digestive issues, it would be best to introduce cauliflower into the diet later rather than sooner! As always, we recommend that you consult with your baby's pediatrician on introducing solid foods as generalities may not apply to your infant.
How to select the perfect cauliflower for baby food
Did you know that the "flower" of the cauliflower is actually called a curd? It sounds odd as we often thing of curds being a dairy product! The size of the cauliflower does not affect the taste so don't think that buying the largest or the smallest will get you the best tasting. You do want to buy a cauliflower that is almost wrapped in it's green leaves. The leaves protect the tender curd from bruising and mold.
Store cauliflower in a plastic bag in the refrigerator with the stem portion down. The stem portion in the downward position wil help keep moisture from pooling on the curd!
The best way to cook cauliflower
When cooking cauliflower you should always steam it to retain the most of it's nutrients. Baking is another option but seldom is cauliflower baked by itself without being a part of a recipe.
A Few Cauliflower Baby Food Recipes:
Cauliflower - Basic Purée
1. Wash cauliflower under cool water.
2. Peel away the green leaves to get to the "flower"
3.
Chop the "flower" into small pieces; using just the florets will many times yield a smoother puree. Steam until tender.
4. Place into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing.
5. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency.
Cauliflower, Apple & Zucchini
1. Wash cauliflower under cool water.
2. Peel away the green leaves to get to the "flower"
3.
Chop the "flower" into small pieces; using just the florets will many times yield a smoother puree. Steam until tender.
4. Steam until tender - 1 peeled and cored apple with 1 chopped zucchini
5. Place cauliflower, apple and zucchini into your choice of appliance for pureeing and begin pureeing. Chop or dice for finger food
5. Add water as necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency - you will probably not need to add water as these foods are watery as it is!
Cauliflower Bake (8 months+ due to cheese)
1 large white cauliflower
2 tbs butter
4 green onions, finely chopped
2 tbs Flour
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon basil
1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan
1. Cook cauliflower whole in boiling water about 20 minutes.
2. Drain and place in baking dish.
In a small skillet, melt butter and saute green onions over medium-low heat for 5 minutes.
3.
Blend in flour and cook for another 3 minutes over low heat - you're making a roux. Slowly stir in the milk and simmer until the mixture is smooth and thick, stirring constantly.
4.
Add the garlic, pepper, and basil. You may increase the spices as you desire, we enjoy more garlic and even chopped garlic!
5. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower. Sprinkle with the bread crumbs and cheese.
6.
Bake at 375 F for about 20 minutes or until slightly browned.
Foods Good to Mix With Cauliflower:
Apples
Broccoli
Green Beans
Dried Beans
White Potato
Peas
Summer Squash - zucchini or yellow/crooked necked
Brown Rice
Lentils
Chicken
Beef
Pork
