Broccoli + Chickpea Puree

Ingredients

• 1 head of broccoli
• 1 Zucchini
• 1 Handful mint leaves
• 1 can chickpeas
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Directions

• Heat one cup of water in a medium saucepan
• Roughly chop broccoli, zucchini and mint. Don't be afraid to use the stem of the broccoli! Its completely edible!
• Add to the saucepan and steam until soft. Drain the excess water away.
• Rinse the chickpeas and add to the steamed veggies.
• Add the olive oil to the saucepan.
• Use a stick blender or pour mixture into a food processor and blend to desired texture!

Serve with:
Spread on toast or baby mum mum rusks as as a finger food or serve alone!

Storage Instructions

Spoon the puree into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well — portion into ice cube trays or small pots and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat until piping hot, then cool to a safe temperature before serving.

Nutrition Notes

This puree is a lovely example of a balanced meal in one bowl: broccoli and zucchini for fibre and vitamins, chickpeas for plant protein and iron, and olive oil for the healthy fats little ones need. Serving it with a vitamin C rich food can help bub's body absorb the iron.

Parent Tip

Don't toss the broccoli stem — it's completely edible and blends down beautifully, adding extra nutrients and reducing waste. Adjust the amount of water you blend in to get a smooth first-foods texture or a thicker mash for older babies.

Frequently Asked Questions

From what age is this puree suitable?

It's a great option from around 6 months as a smooth puree. As bub grows, blend it less for a thicker, lumpier mash to help build their chewing skills.

Can I use frozen broccoli and zucchini?

Yes, frozen vegetables work perfectly and are just as nutritious. Steam them until soft before blending.

How can I serve this as a finger food?

Spread the thicker puree onto toast fingers or rusks, or mix it with a little mashed potato and shape into soft patties for older babies practising self-feeding.