Cooking Methods

Steaming

• The best way to retain nutrients in food is to steam.
• Use a colander over a pot of boiling water or buy a steamer saucepan.

Boiling

• Boiling is a very simple way to cook, but be mindful not to over cook the food.
• Boil in minimal water and use the cooking water when blending food.
• Avoid lifting the lid on boiling food too often as this releases food nutrients.

Blending

• Invest in a small food processor or mini/stick blender. These are so easy to clean and can be pulled out of the drawer in an instant.

Storage

• Invest in some decent BPA free baby food storage containers. The ice-cube styles with lids are perfect for single serve purees.
• Once frozen, pop out the purees and place in a freezer proof plastic bag. Label each bag with ingredients and the date it was frozen.

 Fridge

• Cover, cool and refrigerate cooked meat immediately.
• Keep cooked food for no more than two days in airtight containers.

Freezer

• After you have cooked a meal, add a bit of extra boiled water then freeze immediately in small portions.
• Every evening select from the freezer the food you plan to feed your baby and place in the fridge to defrost.
• Do not refreeze meals that have already been thawed.
• If in doubt, throw it out.

Reheating

• Reheat thawed or refrigerate meals in a small amount of water in a saucepan or in the microwave.
• Heat to at least 70^oC, or boil the juices for a few minutes to ensure food is cooked.
• Mix the food well once reheating, and always test the temperature before giving it to your baby.