Kenya usually loves beans in any form, but for some reason when I gave him whole cannelini beans, he didn’t want to eat them. I tried several times, but no go and I didn’t want to throw them out so I came up with this puree.
Recently, I turned the sunny side of our yard into my own little garden.
This time of year, the herbs are growing like weeds, so I try to use them in as many of our dishes as possible. For this puree I added basil and a touch of mint. If you don’t have the mint, no worries, it will still be delicious.
Herbs have tons of vitamins and minerals and medicinal properties making them important for baby’s nutrition. They’re also great substitutes for salt and heighten your baby’s palate and taste buds. I guarantee you’ll be shocked at how a pinch of cilantro, oregano, thyme or any other herb can brighten a dish for you and your baby.

Cannelini Bean Puree (6 Baby Servings)

1 Cup Cannelini Beans, cooked
1/4 Cup Red Bell Pepper, chopped (you could also use orange or yellow)
1 Tsp Mint
2 Tsp Cilantro

1. Place all the ingredients in a food processor or blender and puree.
2. Serve.

Life is moving so fast. I wanted to make this recipe for Kenya for Cinco de Mayo and somehow totally forgot. Sadly, I think Alzheimer’s is setting in early.
Kenya loves beans. Whether they’re pureed in a dish, mixed with other ingredients like this dish, or on their own, he loves ‘em.
The vegetarians in your life will also love you for making this. Simple, yet packed with flavor. You don’t need to celebrate a holiday in order to whip this dish up.

Mexican Beans and Rice (15 Baby Servings)

1 Tbsp Onion, finely diced
1 Clove Garlic, chopped
1 Tbsp Oil
1/2 Cup Brown RIce
1 1/2 Cup Water
1 Cup Black Beans, cooked
1 Tbsp Cilantro
1/3 Cup Tomatoes, finely chopped, fresh (peeled) or canned

1. Saute the onion and garlic in the oil in a saucepan over low to
medium heat until soft, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the water and rice and bring to a boil.
3. Cover and simmer for 50 minutes or until all the water has absorbed.
4. Add the cilantro and tomatoes and combine.
5. Cool and serve.

*If your baby doesn’t eat solids, you could easily puree this recipe.

*In this recipe I prefer organic canned tomatoes. Some little ones have
texture issues, so it’s much easier for babies to eat the soft canned
version.