In some parts of the world, Mango is known as the king of fruits! it’s sweet and contains a ton of vitamins and minerals and is particularly rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
Choose a mango that feels soft to the touch when you press it, that way you’ll know it’s ripe.
Because of its sweetness, babies rarely turn their nose up at mango, but you should be aware that despite all its wonderful vitamins and minerals, it’s actually really low in calories. Some babies love it so much they eat big portions and drop milk feeds but don’t get the same nutrition in return.
Mango, like other fruits and veg, contains fibre but it also contains amylase. Both of these nutrients together can be really helpful in constipation and so if your baby is prone to being blocked up, mango can be a helpful food to offer.
I’ve also suggested adding a pinch of dried ginger to the mango purée, this spice pairs beautifully with mango and is an easy way to introduce flavour to your baby during weaning. Ginger is a spice that is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and a soothing effect on the gut but despite this, ginger has a wonderfully aromatic warmth and flavour to help your baby enjoy a successful weaning journey.
Despite being a fruit, mango pairs brilliantly with meat and because it contains a lot of vitamin C it can help your baby absorb the iron in meat. Think of serving as a dip alongside baby meatballs or as an accompaniment to fish.
Leftover mango can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or kept frozen for up to 3 months.
Mango Puree
Ingredients
- 1 large mango
- pinch ground ginger
Instructions
- Mangos contain a large flat stone in the centre. With a knife, slice the mango lengthways on either side of the stone.
- Score each half of the mango with a cross cross design and then using your thumbs on the skin side invert the mango so that the flesh pops up.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the flesh from the skin and place in a blender jug or food processor.
- Add a pinch of ground ginger and puree till smooth.
- Mango contains quite a lot of water and so it’s unlikely it will be too thick however if it’s too thin you can thicken it up with baby rice.
- Transfer a small portion of the puree to a serving bowl and serve your baby.
Notes
With thanks to Maria Pavlidou for her help in designing this recipe.
