Starting Solids and Thermomix

When Addy began solids back in 2021, I remember the sheer excitement mixed with a little bit of trepidation. Would she like her first bites? Would she have any reactions? From that very first taste of rice cereal mixed with breast milk, we knew we were embarking on an incredible food adventure. It was a moment filled with pride and joy, watching her curiosity blossom as she experienced food for the first time.

The process, though exciting, can feel overwhelming, especially for a busy parent. This is where my Thermomix became an absolute lifesaver. It turned what could have been a stressful task into an enjoyable one, making it simple to prepare fresh, wholesome meals for Addy while juggling everything else that comes with parenting. From silky-smooth purees to chunky mashes, the Thermomix was my go-to, allowing me to provide her with nutritious meals in record time.

I’ll never forget some of the laugh-out-loud moments we had as Addy started exploring new foods. One day, we had a veggie box delivered, and before I could even unpack it, she made her way over, grabbed a tomato, and started chomping away, juice dripping down her little chin. The look of pride on her face was priceless, as if she’d discovered the most delicious treat in the world. On another occasion, she decided lettuce leaves were her snack of choice, happily munching away like a tiny bunny.

From the very beginning, I made it a point to expose Addy to a wide variety of foods—from fish to chilli. It didn’t matter if it was a strong flavour or a mild one; I wanted her to grow up appreciating the diversity of food. And let me tell you, it worked! To this day, she loves curries, devours her veggies, and enjoys bold flavours as much as any kid loves ice cream. It’s moments like these that remind me how rewarding it is to introduce children to a world of healthy, adventurous eating.

Starting solids isn’t just about nutrition; it’s about laying the foundation for a lifelong love of food. Whether you’re pureeing carrots or letting your little one try their hand at finger foods, every moment is a step toward building healthy habits. And trust me, the memories you create along the way—like a baby with tomato juice running down their chin—are ones you’ll cherish forever.

How to Know if Baby is Ready for Solids

Starting solids is an exciting step in your baby’s development, but it’s important to look for signs that your little one is ready. Every baby is different, and the timing can vary slightly, but here are a few key indicators that your bub might be eager to start their solids journey:

• They’re Watching You Eat and Reaching Out for Food: If your baby is suddenly fascinated by your meals, following the movement of food from your plate to your mouth with intense concentration, or even reaching out to grab a bite, it’s a good sign they’re ready to explore.

• They Can Sit Up and Hold Their Head Steady: Physical readiness is crucial for starting solids safely. Your baby needs to be able to sit upright with good head and neck control to manage swallowing and avoid choking hazards.

• The Tongue-Thrust Reflex is Starting to Fade: Babies are born with a natural reflex to push food out of their mouths to prevent choking. If you notice this reflex diminishing, it’s a green light to start introducing solids.

Where to Begin

Starting solids doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Keep it simple and stress-free by beginning with just one ‘solid’ feed per day. Here’s a helpful routine to get started:

1. Milk First, Then Solids: Offer breastmilk or formula first, as this will remain your baby’s primary source of nutrition for the first year. Follow up with a small amount of solids to help them get used to new flavours and textures.

2. Timing is Key: Choose a time when your baby is alert, content, and not too hungry or tired. Mid-morning or early afternoon is often ideal for many families.

Making It Easier with the Thermomix®

Using your Thermomix® can take a lot of the guesswork out of preparing baby food. It allows you to create simple, nutritious meals that complement your family’s menu. Whip up a silky pumpkin puree, a smooth apple and pear mash, or a nutrient-packed lentil and veggie blend—all with minimal effort. The Thermomix not only saves time and money but also ensures your baby enjoys real, wholesome food made with love.

Safety First

It’s important to remember that every baby’s journey is unique. If your little one doesn’t seem interested at first, don’t worry. Keep offering, but never force them to eat. Eating solids is as much about exploration and play as it is about nutrition in the early days.

Quick Note

The information provided here is based on the Australian Eat for Health Infant Feeding Guidelines, designed to support your baby’s healthy growth and development. For tailored advice, don’t hesitate to check in with your Child Health Nurse or GP—they’re there to help you navigate this exciting new phase with confidence.

Purees, Mash, and Porridges

The transition from smooth purees to chunkier mashes and porridge is a wonderful journey, showcasing your baby’s growing confidence with eating and exploring new textures. Each stage offers opportunities to introduce a variety of flavours, laying the foundation for a diverse and adventurous palate.

When Addy began her solids journey, we started with rice cereal mixed with breast milk—a classic choice that she adored. Before long, we were using baby freeze pods to prepare bulk batches of fresh rice cereal and an array of fruit and veggie mixes. The Thermomix made this so easy, allowing us to prep, blend, and portion meals quickly, ensuring Addy always had fresh, nutritious options on hand.

As her curiosity and skills grew, we transitioned to more textured meals like potato and broccoli mash and quinoa with apple porridge. Watching her expressive reactions as she discovered new flavours was truly one of the most heartwarming parts of my day!

Recipes to Try with Your Thermomix

Here are some tried-and-true recipes for each stage:

Smooth Purees (Great for First Foods)

• Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Puree: Naturally sweet and velvety, this puree is a perfect introduction to vegetables.Thermomix Tip: Steam pumpkin and sweet potato in the Varoma, then blend to a smooth consistency on speed 4-5.

• Apple and Pear Puree: A naturally sweet treat that’s gentle on tiny tummies.Thermomix Tip: Chop and cook fruit in the bowl at 100°C for 10 minutes, then blend on speed 5 for a silky finish.

• Avocado and Banana Puree: No cooking required! A creamy, nutrient-packed blend that’s ready in seconds.Thermomix Tip: Blend equal parts avocado and banana on speed 4 for a smooth, quick meal.

Mashes (Introducing Texture)

• Carrot and Zucchini Mash: Packed with vitamins and a perfect stepping stone from smooth purees.Thermomix Tip: Steam both veggies in the Varoma, then pulse gently on speed 3-4 for a textured finish.

• Potato, Broccoli, and Cauliflower Mash: A savoury option that combines mild flavours and essential nutrients.Thermomix Tip: Steam vegetables together and mash with a small amount of milk or broth on speed 3-4 for a creamy texture.

Porridges (For a Filling, Nutritious Start to the Day)

• Oat and Pear Porridge: A comforting breakfast perfect for chilly mornings.Thermomix Tip: Cook oats and chopped pear in the bowl with water or milk at 90°C, speed 2. Blend lightly on speed 3 for a textured consistency.

• Quinoa and Apple Porridge: A protein-packed option for adventurous little eaters.Thermomix Tip: Cook quinoa and diced apple together in water or milk, then blend slightly to the desired texture.

Advanced Combos for Adventurous Eaters

• Lentil, Sweet Potato, and Spinach Mash: A nutrient-dense option rich in protein and iron.Thermomix Tip: Cook lentils and sweet potato in the bowl, then add spinach in the final few minutes. Blend lightly for texture.

• Chicken and Vegetable Puree: A hearty meal introducing your baby to protein.Thermomix Tip: Cook chicken and veggies together in the Varoma. Blend with some cooking liquid for a smooth or textured result.

Making the Most of Your Thermomix

The Thermomix is a game-changer for preparing baby food. Here’s how to maximise its features:

1. Batch Cooking and Freezing:

   • Use baby food trays or freeze pods to portion meals. The Thermomix allows you to easily whip up bulk batches of puree or mash, saving time on busy days.

2. Steaming and Retaining Nutrients:

   • The Varoma steamer attachment is ideal for gently cooking fruits, vegetables, and proteins, preserving their nutrients and natural flavours.

3. Customising Textures:

   • Adjust the blending speed to create the perfect texture for your baby’s stage—smooth purees for beginners, chunkier mashes for older bubs.

4. One-Pot Wonders:

   • Cook entire meals, like porridge or lentil and veggie mixes, directly in the bowl. This reduces washing up and keeps preparation simple.

5. Adapting Family Meals:

   • Blend portions of family meals to create baby-friendly versions. For example, if you’re making a vegetable soup or stew, simply set aside a portion to blend into a baby puree or mash.

6. Saving Time on Cleaning:

   • The self-cleaning function makes it easy to switch between different foods without cross-contamination of flavours.

As you introduce new flavours and textures, take time to enjoy the process. Mealtime is not only about nutrition but also about bonding, exploration, and fun. Watch for your baby’s cues, and remember—it’s okay if they don’t love every bite. Keep offering a variety, and let your Thermomix take the stress out of prep so you can focus on these precious moments.

Finger Foods: Independence on the Plate

As your baby grows more adventurous, finger foods open a world of independence, allowing them to explore tastes and textures on their own terms. Watching Addy confidently grab steamed veggie batons or nibble on a homemade muffin was such a joy. Those tiny hands navigating food for the first time are moments to cherish.

Finger foods are not just about eating; they help develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and a sense of accomplishment. With the Thermomix, you can whip up a variety of soft, healthy, and delicious options that cater to little hands and growing appetites.

Recipe Suggestions for Finger Foods

Vegetable Fritters

• Ingredients: Grated zucchini, carrot, sweet potato, egg, and a sprinkle of flour.

• Method: Use the Thermomix to chop, grate, and mix the ingredients into a batter. Pan-fry in small dollops until golden.

• Thermomix Tip: Save time by using the chopping function to finely shred veggies in seconds.

Polenta Chips

• Ingredients: Polenta, water, grated cheese, and a touch of butter.

• Method: Cook the polenta in the Thermomix, spread it onto a tray to set, then slice into batons and bake until crispy on the outside but soft inside.

• Perfect For: A snack that’s easy to hold and gentle on gums.

Banana Oat Muffins

• Ingredients: Ripe bananas, oats, egg, a touch of cinnamon, and a splash of milk.

• Method: Blend all ingredients in the Thermomix, portion into mini muffin tins, and bake until golden.

• Thermomix Advantage: The blending function ensures an even batter with no chunks, ideal for tiny mouths.

Salmon and Corn Cakes

• Ingredients: Cooked salmon, sweetcorn, egg, breadcrumbs, and herbs.

• Method: Combine in the Thermomix until just mixed, form into small patties, and pan-fry or bake.

• Nutritious Perk: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids for growing brains.

Soft Zucchini Muffins

• Ingredients: Grated zucchini, cheese, flour, eggs, and a splash of milk.

• Method: Mix everything in the Thermomix, portion into muffin trays, and bake until golden.

• Pro Tip: Add grated carrot or sweetcorn for extra veggies.

Avocado Toast Fingers

• Ingredients: Soft bread and ripe avocado.

• Method: Mash avocado in the Thermomix, spread on bread, and slice into finger-sized pieces.

• Easy to Adapt: Sprinkle with a pinch of flaxseed or chia for added nutrition.

Steamed Veggie Batons

• Ingredients: Carrots, broccoli, zucchini, or green beans.

• Method: Steam in the Varoma until soft enough for tiny teeth or gums to handle.

• Why It Works: The steaming process in the Thermomix retains essential vitamins and minerals.

Fruit Slices and Dip

• Ingredients: Soft fruits like banana, pear, or mango paired with a yogurt-based dip.

• Method: Blend natural yogurt and a touch of cinnamon in the Thermomix for a creamy, healthy dip.

Mini Pancakes

• Ingredients: Mashed banana, oats, and egg.

• Method: Blend into a batter in the Thermomix and cook small rounds in a non-stick pan.

• Great For: Breakfast or snacks, these are easy to hold and packed with natural sweetness.

Making the Most of Your Thermomix for Finger Foods

• Batch Cooking: Use your Thermomix to prepare larger quantities of finger foods and store them in the freezer. Muffins, fritters, and mini pancakes freeze well and can be reheated as needed.

• Nutrient Boosting: Blend in extras like spinach, flaxseed, or chia seeds into batters and doughs without affecting the flavour, ensuring your baby gets added vitamins and minerals.

• Save Time: The chopping, blending, and steaming functions mean you can prep multiple recipes simultaneously—perfect for busy parents.

• Uniform Texture: The precision of the Thermomix ensures every recipe has the right consistency, making it safer and easier for your baby to enjoy.

Encouraging self-feeding with finger foods is a wonderful way to empower your baby while introducing them to a world of flavours. The Thermomix makes this milestone even smoother by helping you create nutritious, delicious options that fit into your family’s lifestyle.

Cookidoo: A Treasure Trove of Recipes

One of the best features of owning a Thermomix is access to the Cookidoo platform. With over 80,000 guided recipes, Cookidoo takes the guesswork out of meal preparation. When searching for baby food, there are more than 300 recipes, including purees, mash, porridges, and baby-led weaning-style foods. There are even 10 dedicated baby food collections!

For Addy, I loved exploring the collections and trying new combinations. It was easy to adapt the recipes to suit her tastes or dietary needs. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always just wing it! The Thermomix gives you the flexibility to create meals tailored to your bub.

Baby-Led Weaning vs. Purees

Deciding between baby-led weaning (BLW) and purees is about understanding your baby’s cues, preferences, and what suits your family’s routine. Both approaches can work beautifully, and many families find a combination of the two strikes the right balance.

Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) involves offering soft, graspable pieces of food that babies feed themselves, bypassing the need for spoon-feeding. It’s a wonderful way to encourage independence, self-regulation of appetite, and the development of motor skills. However, BLW can get messy (picture spaghetti everywhere!) and requires close supervision to ensure safety as babies navigate different textures.

Purees, on the other hand, give parents more control over texture and portion sizes, offering a gentle introduction to solid foods. You can start with smooth purees and gradually thicken the texture as your baby grows more confident. This approach is often less chaotic and can be tailored to introduce specific flavours and nutrients.

For Addy, we started with purees as they allowed us to ensure she was getting the right nutrients and adapting to new tastes and textures at a pace that worked for her. Over time, we incorporated BLW-style foods, like veggie batons and mini patties, which helped her explore self-feeding and build independence. Watching her learn to hold and nibble on finger foods was such a proud parenting moment!

How the Thermomix Simplifies Both Approaches

The versatility of the Thermomix makes it an ideal tool for preparing meals, regardless of whether you choose BLW, purees, or a mix of both:

For Purees:

• Custom Textures: The Thermomix allows you to blend ingredients to your preferred consistency, from silky smooth to chunky, as your baby progresses.

• Batch Cooking: Save time by making larger quantities and storing portions in baby food pods or ice cube trays for easy use later.

• Variety in Minutes: Quickly whip up fruit and veggie purees, protein-packed lentil blends, or creamy porridge with minimal effort.

For BLW:

• Perfect Softness: The Varoma steaming function ensures foods like carrots, broccoli, and sweet potato are tender enough for little hands to grasp and gums to chew.

• Quick Prep: Recipes like veggie fritters, polenta chips, and banana oat muffins come together effortlessly in the Thermomix.

• Healthy Snacks: Make wholesome finger foods like salmon cakes, zucchini bites, or apple cinnamon pancakes that the whole family can enjoy.

Recipe Ideas for a Hybrid Approach

Puree Options:

• Pumpkin and Apple Puree: A naturally sweet mix for first tastes.

• Chicken and Sweet Potato Blend: Protein-rich and filling.

• Lentil and Veggie Puree: Packed with iron and fibre for growing babies.

BLW-Friendly Foods:

• Steamed Veggie Batons: Soft enough to squish, perfect for self-feeding.

• Mini Pancakes: Banana and oat pancakes that are easy to grab and chew.

• Cheese and Spinach Fritters: Nutrient-rich and bite-sized.

Tips for Combining BLW and Purees

1. Start with Purees for Confidence: Introduce smooth purees to help your baby learn to swallow solids, then gradually thicken the texture.

2. Incorporate BLW for Exploration: Offer finger foods alongside purees to let your baby explore self-feeding while still ensuring they’re getting enough nutrients.

3. Blend and Transition: Use the Thermomix to prepare meals that work for both methods—for instance, blend a portion into a puree while leaving some as chunks for BLW.

4. Follow Baby’s Lead: Some babies naturally gravitate toward self-feeding, while others are happy to be spoon-fed. Both are fine!

Ultimately, whether you choose BLW, purees, or a combination, the goal is to foster a positive relationship with food. The Thermomix helps you do just that by simplifying the process, saving time, and offering a wealth of nutritious options to keep your baby happy and healthy.

Homemade Baby Food: Freshness, Variety, and Peace of Mind

When Addy was little, I quickly discovered the joy and practicality of making her meals in bulk. One of my favourite things to prepare was rice cereal—simple, nourishing, and perfect for a first food. I’d make a large batch, portion it into silicone freeze pods, and store them in the freezer. It was as convenient as reaching for a jar of store-bought baby food but came with the added satisfaction of knowing exactly what she was eating.

Store-bought baby food can be a lifesaver in a pinch, but it often lacks the freshness, texture, and variety that homemade options can provide. Many commercial options are heavily processed, with hidden sugars, preservatives, or unnecessary fillers that don’t add nutritional value. By making your own baby food, you can ensure every bite is packed with wholesome ingredients tailored to your baby’s needs.

Why the Thermomix Makes Homemade Baby Food Easy

The Thermomix is a game-changer when it comes to preparing baby food at home:

• Time-Saving: You can make fresh meals in minutes, from cooking to blending.

• Batch Cooking: Prepare large quantities of purees, cereals, or meals and freeze portions for later.

• Nutrient Retention: Steaming vegetables in the Varoma helps retain more nutrients compared to boiling.

• Versatility: From first foods like purees to textured meals and family-friendly finger foods, the Thermomix adapts to your baby’s growth.

Tips for Bulk-Making Baby Food

1. Start Simple: Focus on single-ingredient purees for first tastes, such as pumpkin, apple, or carrot.

2. Mix and Match: As your baby grows, combine flavours to keep mealtime exciting. Think sweet potato and pear or broccoli and cheese.

3. Portion Control: Use silicone freeze pods or ice cube trays to portion food into manageable servings. Once frozen, transfer to labelled ziplock bags for easy storage.

4. Keep It Fresh: Store baby food in the freezer for up to three months. Defrost portions as needed for a quick, fresh meal.

5. Transition to Textures: Gradually blend less as your baby gets used to chunkier textures, helping them transition to solids.

Cost-Effective and Nutritious Recipes

• Rice Cereal: Grind rice into a fine powder with the Thermomix, then cook with breast milk, formula, or water for a silky, nourishing first food.

• Sweet Potato and Carrot Mash: Steam the veggies in the Varoma, then blend until smooth. Add a dash of olive oil for extra flavour and healthy fats.

• Apple and Oat Porridge: Blend oats into flour, then cook with fresh apples and water for a hearty, naturally sweet breakfast.

• Lentil and Veggie Puree: Cook red lentils with zucchini and pumpkin for an iron-rich, nutrient-dense meal.

• Banana and Avocado Blend: A quick and creamy no-cook option perfect for on-the-go snacks.

Homemade Baby Food: A Long-Term Investment

Making your baby’s food at home isn’t just about nutrition—it’s also about instilling a love of fresh, varied foods from the start. Addy’s early exposure to homemade meals played a big role in shaping her adventurous palate. Today, she enjoys everything from roasted veggies to spicy curries—a testament to those early days of thoughtful, homemade preparation.

The Thermomix is an invaluable partner on this journey, making it possible to provide your baby with fresh, delicious, and cost-effective meals while saving you time and effort. It’s not just a kitchen tool; it’s a helping hand for busy parents determined to give their little ones the best start in life.

Expert Tips

• Eat the Rainbow: Variety Is Vital

  Introducing your baby to a diverse range of flavours, colours, and textures early on sets the stage for a well-rounded palate. Offer vegetables like spinach, carrots, broccoli, pumpkin, and zucchini alongside proteins and grains. While fruits like apple and pear are naturally sweet and loved by babies, try not to let these dominate their diet. Instead:

  • Pair fruits with vegetables: Mix apple with spinach or pear with pumpkin for a balanced puree.

  • Experiment with herbs: Add mild herbs like parsley or basil to purees for added flavour and nutrients.

  • Rotate ingredients: Change up the veggies, grains, and proteins in your recipes weekly to keep bub excited about mealtimes.

• Iron is Key: Building Strong Foundations

  From around six months, your baby’s iron stores begin to deplete, making it essential to include iron-rich foods in their diet. Incorporate the following into their meals:

  • Animal Sources: Minced red meat, poultry, and fish are excellent sources of haem iron, which is more easily absorbed. Use the Thermomix to blend these into smooth purees or chunkier textures.

  • Plant Sources: Lentils, beans, tofu, and leafy greens like spinach are great vegetarian options. Pair these with vitamin C-rich foods like citrus or capsicum to boost absorption.

  • Eggs: Serve scrambled or mashed eggs as a versatile, iron-rich option.

  • Iron-Fortified Cereals: Homemade rice or oat cereals can be fortified with an iron supplement if recommended by your GP.

• Introduce Allergens Early and Often

  Current guidelines encourage introducing common allergens in small amounts from as early as six months (but not before four months). This can help reduce the risk of allergies later in life. Some tips for introducing allergens:

  • Start Small: Begin with a tiny portion, such as a dab of peanut butter mixed with breast milk or formula, or a piece of cooked egg yolk.

  • One at a Time: Introduce one allergen at a time and wait three to five days before trying another. This makes it easier to identify any potential reactions.

  • Incorporate into Regular Meals: Regular exposure is key, so include small amounts of allergens in their diet frequently once introduced.

  • Monitor Closely: Watch for signs of a reaction, such as rash, vomiting, or swelling. If you notice anything concerning, stop immediately and contact your doctor.

• Bonus Tips for Mealtime Success

  • Texture Progression: Gradually transition from smooth purees to chunkier textures, then to finger foods, to support oral motor development.

  • Seasoning in Moderation: Add a pinch of mild spices like cinnamon, turmeric, or cumin to introduce complex flavours early on.

  • Involve the Family: Serve baby-friendly versions of family meals to build a sense of inclusion and excitement about food.

  • Lead by Example: Babies love to mimic. Eating a variety of healthy foods alongside your baby can encourage them to try new things.

  • Stay Calm with Rejection: It can take 10–15 tries for a baby to accept a new food. Keep offering it without pressure.

• Easy Thermomix Recipes to Support These Tips

  • Rainbow Veggie Puree: Blend sweet potato, zucchini, and beetroot for a nutrient-packed, vibrant dish.

  • Iron-Rich Lentil Stew: Steam lentils with spinach and carrots, then puree or mash to your baby’s preferred consistency.

  • Allergen-Friendly Pancakes: Use egg, almond meal (if safe), and a banana for soft, allergy-friendly finger foods.

  • Herb and Veggie Mash: Combine potato, broccoli, and parsley for a fresh twist on a classic.

  • Fish and Sweet Potato Cakes: Blend cooked fish with mashed sweet potato and a sprinkle of turmeric, then bake for soft, nutrient-rich patties.

    
    

    Offering a variety of flavours, textures, and nutrients sets the foundation for a healthy and adventurous eater. With a little planning, mealtimes can become a fun and rewarding part of your baby’s day!

By introducing a variety of flavours and textures early, you’re setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy eating. Got a go-to recipe for baby food? Share it in the comments!

Enjoy the Journey of Feeding Your Little One

Starting solids is a huge milestone, and the journey is as much about exploring new flavours as it is about watching your baby grow and develop. Whether you opt for purees, baby-led weaning, or a mix of both, the key is to make mealtimes enjoyable and stress-free for both you and your baby. With the right tools, like your Thermomix, you can easily prepare nutritious, wholesome meals that support your baby's growth while saving time and money.

Remember, every baby is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Trust your instincts, be patient, and enjoy the messy, wonderful process of discovering new tastes together. From first bites to full meals, the goal is to help your baby develop a love for healthy, balanced foods that will last a lifetime.

So, embrace the adventure—try new recipes, mix up textures, and don’t forget to have fun along the way. Here’s to the exciting journey of introducing solids and nurturing your baby’s love for food!