Tropical Sunshine Papaya Purée
A single-ingredient purée of ripe papaya, offering a sweet tropical flavor and digestive benefits for babies ready for more complex flavors. Papaya is a great source of Vitamin C and the enzyme papain which can aid digestion.
Ingredients
- 1 small ripe papaya (or half of a medium papaya)
Instructions
Select a ripe papaya: Look for a papaya with orange/yellow skin that yields slightly to gentle pressure. The flesh should be a vibrant orange color.
Wash the papaya: Thoroughly wash the outside of the papaya under cool running water to remove any dirt or bacteria.
Cut the papaya: Place the papaya on a cutting board and carefully cut it in half lengthwise.
Remove the seeds: Use a spoon to scoop out and discard the black seeds from both halves of the papaya.
Separate the flesh: Use a spoon or knife to carefully separate the orange flesh from the skin. Alternatively, you can peel the skin off with a vegetable peeler.
Chop the papaya: Chop the papaya flesh into smaller, manageable chunks.
Purée the papaya: Place the papaya chunks into a blender, mini food processor, or use an immersion blender.
Blend until smooth: Blend the papaya until it reaches a smooth, lump-free consistency. Add a tablespoon of breast milk, formula, or water if needed to achieve a thinner consistency.
Check the consistency: Ensure the purée is smooth and free of any large pieces that could be a choking hazard. If needed, blend for a few more seconds.
Serve immediately: Freshly made papaya purée is best served immediately to preserve its flavor and enzymes.
Optional: Mix with other foods: If desired, mix the papaya purée with a small amount of baby cereal or plain yogurt to mellow the flavor or introduce new textures (for older babies).
Storage (if any): Store any leftover purée in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Note that the flavor and texture may change slightly.
Freezing (optional): Papaya purée can be frozen in ice cube trays for longer storage (up to 1 month). Thaw completely before serving. Be aware that freezing may alter the texture.
Always check the temperature: Before feeding your baby, always test a small amount of the purée to ensure it is not too hot or cold.
Safety Notes
- Adult supervision required during preparation and feeding.
- Ensure papaya is fully ripe and puréed to a smooth consistency to prevent choking.
- Introduce papaya as a single ingredient to monitor for any allergic reactions or sensitivities.
- Check for any signs of latex allergy sensitivity due to potential cross-reactivity.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 30 kcal per serving
Protein: 0.5g
Carbs: 7g
Fat: 0.2g