For this homemade pear puree recipe, you will need only two products- water and pears. Super simple and easy so much that you will want to make it more often. Store-bought pear puree will cost you much more than if you make it by yourself at home, so why not give it a shot? Using organic pears will make this recipe healthier and safer for your little one.
Just like with bananas and apples, pears are one of the first fruits you would want to introduce to your baby, and trust me, babies love them. Pears are sweet and also; they are full of fiber which will help your baby’s digestive tract to move things around a lot faster. There are many varieties of pears to choose from but the softest and sweetest are Bartlett, Anjou, Comice, and Bosc. Oh, did I mention how easy this recipe is?!
Many moms make their baby food from scratch by using vegetables and fruits like sweet potatoes, carrots, bananas. They either make the puree using one fruit or vegetable or a combination of two or more fruits and vegetables. Making your food baby will save you a lot of money, and on top of that, you will know exactly what you are feeding your baby.
The recipe for this pear puree is not only easy to make but also is a food that you can feed to your little ones of all ages. Additional to the water and pears you can also add some spices such as cinnamon, but first, you need to make sure your baby is not allergic to either of those ingredients.
Instructions on how to make this pear puree:
You can use two ways to make this recipe. If you are making this puree for a younger baby, then you should cook the pears first. This is because their tummy is still sensitive. And, for older babies who enjoy eating purees you do not need to precook the pears, simply blend them with water. Below you find the instruction on how to make this puree with cooked pears.
The first step is cutting each pear into six pieces. After you have done that, put the pears into the container of the slow cooker. Whether you should cook the pears or not depends on two things, first is how old is the baby you are cooking for and second how soft are the pears. If your baby is under 10 months old, then it would be better if you cook the pears first. But, if you happen to find juicy and soft pears, there is no need to cook them. The next thing you want to do is add the water and if you are using 8 smaller pears which equals 6 cups you should and ½ cup of water.
The next step is cooking the pears if you have decided to not use them fresh. To cook the pears, you have two options either cook them in the slow cooker or steam them on the stovetop. If you choose the slow cooker, you will need to cook the pears for 1-2 hours on high or when they get soft. You will notice how they change colors as you cook them. This method is a lot easier because you just toss them in the cooker and you go do other things if you desire. If you choose to steam the pears on the stovetop you should put the pears in the pot with some water, or you can use the steaming basket. You need to steam your pears for 10-20 minutes or until they get soft. After you have cooked the pears, put them in a blender, and blend until smooth.
Storing the pear puree
You can store this puree in the refrigerator by putting it into containers or you can put the puree into ice cube trays and freeze them. Silicone ice cube trays are your best option, speaking from experience. They are easier for transport because they come with a firm outer rim and they also have a lid for storage. You can reheat one or two cubes of the pear puree by putting it in a glass container and microwave it for 40-60 seconds. You also have the option of warming up the puree on the stovetop or simply let it defrost at room temperature for a few hours.
We recommend pear puree for your baby because it is fresh food with amazing flavor and lots of fiber which is good for the baby’s digestive system. This healthy option can only help you with getting your baby to enjoy eating fruits and develop healthy habits in the future.
Do not freak out when the puree turns brown. Pears, just like many other fruits, oxidize when you break their skin and oxygen meets the flesh of the fruit. You can leave the skin on while you make the puree, which will help to make the final color a bit lighter. If the brown color bothers you so much you can add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice and you are good to go.
Should you be feeding your baby raw pears?
Your baby boy or little princess must be 8-10 months old before you start feeding them raw, but peeled, pears. Peeling the pears is recommended because it will lower the risk of choking or gagging. It is important to be around your little one while it is eating finger foods just in case the baby starts choking. Of course, you should cook the pears when your baby is younger than 8 months thus making it easier for him/her to digest. The best time to start feeding pear puree is once your baby is 6 months old.
Pears are also good when your baby is struggling with constipation. This yummy, juicy fruit will help preventing constipation and help your baby relieve himself/herself. One of the first food that your baby can eat and that are high in fiber are pears. As with any other fruits and vegetables, we recommend using organic pears. This is very important if you choose to eat or cook them with the peel on.
