Introducing herbs and spices early on can help to foster a curious and adventurous eater later on. So when is the best time to introduce spices and herbs? Pretty much as soon as bub is ready to start solids. You may want to just start with plain foods for the first couple of meals then they can start to explore different flavours.
Why Spice Up Bub's Meals?
Think of taste buds like tiny flavour receptors sending messages to your baby's brain. The more flavours they encounter early on, the more accustomed they become to a wider variety. This translates to a bit less drama when they're faced with unfamiliar foods down the road. The goal? A happy bub who joins family meals by 12 months old, instead of a picky eater turning their nose up at everything but mashed banana!
A Gentle Introduction
Babies have super sensitive taste buds compared to us as all they have known is the subtle sweet flavour of breast milk and/or formula. So a sprinkle is all you need. Here's how to get started:
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Single Spice/Herb at a Time: Don't overwhelm bub’s taste buds. Introduce one new flavour at a time, allowing your baby to get acquainted before moving on to the next exciting adventure.
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Purees: For purées, simply add a teeny tiny pinch of the chosen spice or herb to their usual veggie or fruit mash.
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BLW: For BLW bubs,, sprinkle a touch of the spice or herb onto their finger foods or in their cooked meal.
Spice Rack Rundown: Gentle Options for Tiny Taste Buds
Not all spices are created equal for tiny taste buds. Here are some gentle options to start with:
- Spices: Sweet paprika, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger (freshly grated is best for babies).
- Herbs: Dried parsley, oregano, basil, coriander, chives.
Building Flavourful Combinations
As your little explorer gets used to different flavours, you can start creating flavour combinations! Think of it as a taste bud bootcamp, gradually preparing them for the exciting world of grown-up food. Here are some ideas:
- Sweet Potato + Parsley
- Zucchini + Oregano
- Capscicum + Sweet Paprika
- Cauliflower + Cumin
- Broccoli + Basil
- Pumpkin + Turmeric
- Carrot + Ginger
- Apple + Cinnamon
- Pear + Nutmeg
- Beef + Garlic
- Salmon + Dill
- Chicken + Coriander
The Salt Question: Less is Definitely More
Babies under one year old shouldn't have added salt. Their little kidneys are still developing, and too much sodium can put a strain on them. Plus, you don't want them to develop a preference for salty foods, which can make them less likely to try new flavours later. Don't worry, a pinch or two in your family meal probably won't hurt, but if you're making food specifically for your baby, leave it out.
Spicy Adventures: Maybe Later
Spicy food can be a bit harsh on little tummies, so it's best to wait until your baby is around to 1 year old before introducing chillies, jalapeños, and cayenne pepper. Babies exposed to spice during pregnancy or breast milk might tolerate it a bit earlier, especially if it's a familiar flavour in your family's culture. When you do decide to introduce these stronger spices, start with the tiniest sprinkle and let them build their tolerance gradually.
Remember: It's all about creating positive first experiences with food. These flavour combos are just a jumping off point.
Everything you Need for Starting Solids
Is your bub about to start solids? We have everything you need, to make life so much more convenient:
✅Veggie Puree Starter Pack (10 individual veggies)
✅Fruit Puree Packs
✅Salmon Puree
✅Beef Puree
✅Chicken Puree
✅Allergen Intro Packs (14 individual allergens)
✅Tree Nut Maintenance Meal Packs (all 9 tree nuts)
Please note, our advice is general in nature and should not replace any advice provided to you by your health professional. Ensure your bub is over 4 months old and is showing signs of readiness before starting solids. If you have any concerns about your bubs development or starting solids consult your GP or other health professional.*