Mushroom and Little Tree Risotto (V)
Indian baby food recipe - Stage 3: 10 months plus
The first time I cooked this for Aaliyah, the ‘little trees’ kept her occupied for quite some time. It was great because she picked the broccoli out and ate them as a finger food and then tucked into the main meal.
Now we all know broccoli has excellent health benefits for baby, the beautiful bright green colour gives it away. But did you know mushrooms have too? I think these little veggies fungus are totally underrated as they have wonderful health benefits for baby, and there are so many different varieties to choose from in the supermarkets – Shitake, Chestnut, Portobello…. I however, choose to stick with my all-time family favourite – cost-effective white Close Cup mushrooms. Mushrooms can be introduced into a baby’s diet from 8-9 months are rich in vitamin D, copper and phosphorus – two minerals essential for bone health and energy production. The cumin too has fab benefits for baby by aiding digestion, and supporting a healthy immune system.
SuperFoods included – olive oil, onion, garlic, broccoli, mushrooms SuperSpices included – cumin, black pepper
Makes 5-6 servings. Total preparation and cooking time: 30mins. Suitable for freezing.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion - peeled, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp minced garlic
- Pinch of ground cumin
- Pinch of ground black pepper
- 120g (4 oz) white closed cup mushrooms – thoroughly washed, stems removed, finely chopped 1
- 100g (3½ oz\ ½ cup) Arborio risotto rice — washed, drained
- 750ml (1¼ pint) of hot vegetable stock — baby-friendly
- 120g (4 oz) broccoli florets — washed, chopped (no stems)
Method
Heat the oil in a pot, add the onion and bay leaf and stir-fry on medium-low heat for 4-5mins until the onion is soft and golden. Add the garlic, cumin and black pepper and lightly cook for 10-20secs. Then add the mushrooms and sauté for 4-5mins until they begin to soften.
Pour the rice into the pot, followed by the stock and stir. Bring to the boil and simmer (covered) on a low heat for 15-20mins until creamy and tender.
Whilst the rice is cooking, steam the broccoli in a steamer or in the microwave by placing the florets in a microwavable dish and adding 2 tablespoons of water. Cover the dish with either a lid (leaving a small vent) or cling film (piercing a few holes), and steam in the microwave on high for 1½-2mins until tender. Once cooked, drain the excess water and set aside.
Once the rice is cooked, add the steamed broccoli and combine together for a scrummy rice meal. Mash as necessary for baby and serve warm. Yum!
