Ginger

For 6-9 month olds, use ginger as a subtle flavoring in purees. Add a tiny pinch of finely grated ginger to fruit or vegetable purees. You can also make a weak ginger tea by simmering a thin slice in water for 5 minutes, then use the cooled liquid to thin purees.

• Start with just 1/8 teaspoon of grated ginger per serving
• Mix ginger into sweet purees like pear or apple to balance the flavor
• Always peel ginger before using to remove any dirt or pesticides
• Test the flavor yourself first - it should be barely noticeable
• Introduce ginger separately from other new foods to monitor reactions

For 9-12 month olds, you can use slightly more ginger as their taste buds develop. Add grated ginger to oatmeal, yogurt, or mashed foods. You can also make ginger-infused water to cook grains like rice or quinoa.

• Increase to 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger per serving if tolerated
• Try ginger in savory combinations like carrot-ginger or sweet potato-ginger
• Make ginger carrot sticks by steaming carrot sticks with a slice of ginger
• Add ginger to homemade teething biscuits for subtle flavor
• Watch for any signs the flavor is too strong (spitting out, grimacing)

For toddlers 12 months and up, ginger can be used more liberally in family meals. Add it to stir-fries, soups, baked goods, and smoothies. You can also offer small pieces of crystallized ginger as an occasional treat.

• Use ginger in family meals like ginger chicken or ginger vegetable stir-fry
• Make ginger pancakes or muffins for a flavorful breakfast
• Add fresh ginger to fruit smoothies for a zesty kick
• Try ginger in homemade popsicles with fruit puree
• Remember that ginger flavor intensifies when cooked - start with less