Homemade Black Bean Puree for Baby

Black bean puree is a great stage 1 baby food. It is high in proteins and other essential nutrients, necessary for the growth of your baby.

As a first-time mom, I embarked on a culinary adventure to ensure my baby received the best nutrition possible. I stumbled upon an incredible addition to our baby’s diet – black bean puree.

One day, while browsing through baby food options at the store, I noticed black bean puree jars on the shelf. So, I decided to try the recipe. After all, it had “nutrient-packed” written all over it.

Before opening the jar, I thought, “Why not make my own black bean puree?” It’s surprisingly easy. I soaked black beans overnight, cooked them until soft, and then blended them into a creamy puree. The rich, dark color was enticing, and it smelled delicious.

Benefits of black bean puree for baby

Nutritional Powerhouse

Black beans are a nutritional powerhouse, brimming with fiber, protein, iron, and folate. These nutrients are essential for a growing baby. Plus, they’re known for their antioxidant properties, which help protect against cell damage.

Smooth Transition

My baby’s journey into the world of black bean puree started with cautious spoonfuls. To my delight, my little one seemed to enjoy the taste. The creamy texture made it easy for her to swallow, and it was a great way to introduce a different flavor into her diet.

Digestive Health

Fiber-rich black bean puree aided my baby’s digestion, preventing constipation and ensuring her tummy was happy. It’s a win-win when your baby eats well and feels great!

Energy Booster

The iron in black beans plays a crucial role in supporting healthy blood development. I noticed an increase in my baby’s energy levels, and she was more active than ever.

Versatile and Creative

One of the best things about black bean baby food is its versatility. I mixed it with other purees like sweet potatoes and avocado, creating new taste combinations for my baby to explore.

How to prepare black bean puree

Let’s get in to business of preparing this beans recipe for babies. It is simple and easy to make at home. In this baby food recipe, we will use precooked or previously boiled beans.

Black beans: I used precooked black beans to make this puree. You can also use canned or frozen black beans. Black beans can be bought precooked, or you can cook them at home by boiling them until soft.

Water: Add a little water to the black beans while blending, to reduce the thickness of the black bean puree. Alternatively, use breastmilk.

Additional: Add a little salt for flavour. You may also add cumin and coriander to your baby’s puree for flavor.

How to prepare black bean puree

First, soak the black beans in water for 8 hours. Cook them until soft. You can use a pressure cooker for a lesser duration of cooking. Place the cooked beans in a blender, a small amount of water or breastmilk. Optionally, add a pinch of salt, cumin and coriander for flavor. Blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth creamy paste.

How to store black bean puree

• Put it in airtight containers and seal it tightly to prevent air from getting in. Label your containers with the preparation dates.
• Refrigerate the black bean puree and use it within the next 3 days
• You can freeze the black beans also. They can stay fresh for 3 to 6 months if frozen.
• For use move the blackheads from freezer to refrigerator and allow gradual thawing. You can allow defrost them in the microwave for easy thawing.

Black bean puree variations for babies

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Puree

Combine cooked black beans with mashed sweet potatoes for a nutrient-rich and slightly sweet variation.

Carrot and Black Bean Puree

Mix cooked black beans with pureed carrots for a combination of plant-based proteins and vitamin-rich carrots. It provides a different flavor and added nutrition.

Peas and Black Bean Puree

Combine black beans with cooked and pureed peas to introduce a new vegetable into your baby’s diet. Peas add a mild sweetness and extra nutrients.

Avocado and Black Bean Puree

Blend ripe avocado with black beans for a creamy and nutrient-dense option. Avocado is a good source of healthy fats and adds a smooth texture.

Banana and Black Bean Puree

For a slightly sweeter option, mix ripe banana with black beans. This variation introduces a different texture and taste.

Butternut Squash and Black Bean Puree

Combine black beans with pureed butternut squash for a creamy and slightly sweet flavor. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins and fiber.

Apple and Black Bean Puree

Blend cooked black beans with unsweetened applesauce for a naturally sweet and mild option. Apples provide vitamins and a pleasant taste.

RECIPE CARD

Print

BLACK BEAN PUREE FOR BABIES

Black beans are a nutritional powerhouse, brimming with fiber, protein, iron, and folate. These nutrients are essential for a growing baby. Plus, they're known for their antioxidant properties, which help protect against cell damage.

Course BABY FOOD

Cuisine American

Keyword black bean puree,

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Calories 114kcal

Author Gladys

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cooked black beans canned or cooked from dry beans
• 2-3 tablespoons of water or breast milk/formula for added creaminess
• A pinch of cumin or coriander optional, for flavor
• Tiny pinch of salt optional, but not recommended for very young babies

Instructions

• Prepare the Black Beans: If you’re using canned black beans, rinse them thoroughly to remove excess salt. If using dry beans, cook them until they’re soft and well-cooked.
• Blend: Place the cooked black beans in a blender or food processor. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water (or breast milk/formula) to help achieve a smooth consistency.
• Optional Flavor: If desired, you can add a pinch of cumin or coriander for a subtle flavor. Remember to skip the salt or use just a tiny pinch, especially for very young babies, as their kidneys are not fully developed to handle excess salt.
• Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps. You want a very fine puree for young babies.
• Serve: Spoon the black bean puree into a small bowl or baby feeding dish. Make sure it’s not too hot – let it cool if necessary. You can also refrigerate any leftovers for a day or two.

Notes

• Always ensure that the puree is the right consistency for your baby’s age and development.
• If your baby is just starting on solids, the puree should be very smooth.
• As they get older and more accustomed to solids, you can make it slightly thicker.