Quinoa:
Quinoa can be introduced to baby at 6+ months of age as part of your first foods, although I recommend serving it as is if baby is just beginning to explore food. These quinoa bites are best served to a more experienced baby at around 8+ months.
Nutrition:
- Quinoa is a plant based complete protein, meaning it contains all 9 essential amino acids that our body cannot produce on its own
- The protein in quinoa is considered a high quality protein, very similar to the protein (casein) found in most dairy products
- Good source of fibre
- Contains more antioxidants and minerals than most grains, including iron, zinc, folate, magnesium and more
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp pressed garlic or puree
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3/4 cup homemade bone broth* or water
- 3/4 cup dry quinoa
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup steamed broccoli
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
*homemade bone broth should contain no sodium, if making for baby do not use store bought broth, just replace with water if you do not have homemade
Preparation:
- Heat olive oil in a pot on medium/low heat
- Sauté onions and garlic for a few minutes until fragrant
- Add dry quinoa and bone broth/water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes*
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- While quinoa is cooking, steam your broccoli until soft, then pull apart into small pieces
- Once quinoa is fully cooked, remove from heat and let stand uncovered for 5-10 minutes
- Wait for quinoa to fully cool, then mix in broccoli, cheese, and egg
- Form into small golf sized balls and place on baking sheet with parchment paper
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown
- Allow to cool
Keep in airtight container in the fridge for 2 days or freeze.
