Mild Brussels Sprouts and Apple Puree with Beef for Babies

Classic winter Brussels sprouts are beautifully mellowed by the natural sweetness of apples in this recipe. Tender beef turns the dish into a satisfying main meal. Blended until completely smooth, this puree is perfect for cold winter days and provides valuable energy.

Ingredients

• 100 g Brussels sprouts (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small apple (approx. 100 g, sweet variety like Gala)
• 50 g lean beef (e.g., minced or fillet, organic if possible)
• 1 tbsp rapeseed oil (suitable for weaning)
• Approx. 50 ml water or unsalted vegetable broth

Preparation

1. Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly, remove the outer leaves, and cut off the stems generously. Quarter the sprouts so they cook faster.
2. Peel and core the apple, then cut it into small cubes. Dice the beef into very fine pieces as well.
3. Gently simmer the beef in a small pot with a little water for about five minutes until it is completely cooked through. Add the Brussels sprouts and apple pieces.
4. Let everything simmer together over medium heat for another ten minutes until the vegetables and meat are very soft. Add a little more water if necessary.
5. Place the mixture and the rapeseed oil into a blender or use an immersion blender. Blend until a very smooth, creamy texture without any lumps is formed.
6. Allow the puree to cool to room temperature. Always check the temperature before feeding to prevent burns.

Variations and Tips

• Swap the vegetables: If your child is still getting used to the taste of Brussels sprouts, you can replace half of them with mild parsnip or sweet potato.
• Storage: The puree keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. It also freezes wonderfully in ice cube trays and lasts up to three months.
• For the whole family: Simply cook more Brussels sprouts and beef. Before blending, you can take out the portions for the parents and season them generously with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
• Adjusting texture: For older children who are already practicing chewing, you can just roughly mash the ingredients instead of blending them finely.

Allergy and Safety Information

Always introduce new ingredients one at a time and in small amounts so you can easily observe any potential reactions. Start with two to six spoons of this puree and slowly increase the amount to 100 or 200 grams.

Make sure the meat is completely cooked through. Raw animal products are not suitable at this age. Breast milk or formula remains the main source of nutrition during this phase. If you have any uncertainties about introducing solid foods, it is best to consult your pediatrician.

Nutrients for Your Child

Beef is an excellent source of easily absorbable iron, which is particularly valuable for growth during this phase. The vitamin C from the apple and Brussels sprouts helps the little body absorb this iron optimally. In addition, the dish provides gentle fiber for comfortable digestion.