Exploring Food, One Tiny Bite at a Time
Baby-led weaning can be such a joyful (and messy!) stage, a time when your little one starts exploring the world of food with all their senses. From the squish of sweet potato between those tiny fingers to the delight (or disgust!) of discovering new flavours, it’s a lovely way to encourage confidence and independence at mealtimes.
It’s not about perfect portions or spotless bibs, it’s about letting babies lead the way, learning to chew and self-feed at their own pace. And for parents, it can be surprisingly fun too, watching those first bites and sharing simple meals, knowing they’re building a healthy relationship with food.
Below are a few of our favourite baby-led weaning recipes to help you get started. They're both simple and nourishing. Let the adventures begin!
Root Veggie Mash with Toast Fingers
Suitable from: 6+ months
Makes: 4 baby portions (suitable for freezing)
Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 20 mins
Ingredients:
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1 small sweet potato, peeled and chopped
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1 carrot, peeled and chopped
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1 parsnip, peeled and chopped
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A knob of unsalted butter or a splash of olive oil
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1–2 slices of wholemeal bread
Method:
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Steam or boil the chopped root vegetables for around 15–20 minutes until soft.
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Mash the veg with butter or olive oil until smooth but slightly textured. Add a splash of water, breast milk, or formula if a thinner consistency is needed.
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Toast the bread lightly and cut into finger-sized strips.
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Let both the mash and toast cool to a safe temperature before serving.
Steamed Apple & Pear Fingers
Suitable from: 6+ months
Makes: 2 baby portions
Prep time: 5 mins | Cook time: 10 mins
Ingredients:
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1 small eating apple, peeled and cored
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1 ripe pear, peeled and cored
Method:
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Slice the apple and pear into finger-sized wedges, making them easy for little hands to grasp.
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Steam the fruit for about 8–10 minutes until soft enough to mash between fingers but still hold their shape.
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Allow to cool before serving.
Baby Banana Pancakes
Suitable from: 6+ months
Makes: 4 small pancakes
Prep time: 5 mins | Cook time: 10 mins
Ingredients:
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1 ripe banana
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1 egg
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2 tablespoons wholemeal flour (or oat flour for gluten-free option)
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A small pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Method:
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Mash the banana in a bowl until smooth.
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Whisk in the egg until well combined.
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Add the flour (and cinnamon if using) and mix to form a smooth batter.
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Heat a non-stick pan over low-medium heat.
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Spoon small amounts of batter into the pan to form mini pancakes. Cook for about 2 minutes each side or until golden and cooked through.
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Let the pancakes cool before serving.