I’m not what you would call a “crunchy gal.”

I breastfed as long as I could, I “wore” my daughter in a sling… but cloth diapers and hemp-based soaps were not for me.

But you know what was for me? Homemade baby food.

A friend of mine made all of her baby’s food, and she showed me how easy it was to do. Then, I got this book as a baby gift when Babes was born.

This book changed the way I thought about making baby food. All the recipes are so easy!

Of course, there is nothing wrong with feeding baby jarred baby food, but I kind of made making her baby food a challenge. No, I didn’t buy everything organic, but I felt good knowing I was making her food with love.

And, really, would you want to eat jarred meats? Didn’t think so.

This book is great. From simple fruit and veggie purees, to more complex recipes for the older baby, I’ve tried so many recipes in this book, it’s a permanent fixture on my kitchen counter.

Did I mention how easy it is to make your own baby food?

All you need is a steamer insert for a pot or pan, a food processor, and I love to use a hand held stick-blender. Works like magic.

Below is one of my favorite recipes from the book. This book truly is a fabulous find, and if you’re getting ready to start solids, or if you want to try something different with your baby, this book is a great resource.

Chicken with leek, carrots and peas

• 1 1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup washed and chopped white part of a leek
• 1 large chicken thign ( about 6 oz) on the bone, skinned and trimmed of fat
• 2 medium carrots
• 1 cup of chicken stock
• 1/4 cup of frozen peas

Heat the oil in a saucepan and saute the leek for about 2 minutes. Add the chicken and saute for about 2 minutes. Ad the carrots and pour in the stock, then bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Add the peas and cool uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and take the flesh off the bone. Blend together with vegetables and chicken with as much of the cooking liquid as necessary to make a smooth puree.

* I have this page marked as “yum” so I think my daughter really loved it!

* This recipe is suitable for freezing, is good for babies between 7 and 9 months, and makes 2 portions.

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