We have a lovingly-told running joke in this family: Mr. G gets an F- in sleeping and an A+ in eating! He loves any and everything I put in front of him. Everyday I'm challenged to come up with new things for him to try, so I was excited to receive a copy of The Best Baby Food by Jordan Wagman and Jill Hillhouse from Robert Rose publishers. 

In addition to recipes, the book offers lots of education about baby eating. Did you know for some babies it takes 6-10 attempts to introduce new flavors or textures before accepting it? But keep at it, because introducing lots of new things during the first year helps prevent them from being picky eaters later. 

Chef Jordan Wagman was nominated as a “Rising Star in North America” by the James Beard Foundation. He is also the co-author of 750 Best Appetizers and 150 Best Dips and Salsas. Jordan resides in the Toronto, ON area.

Jill Hillhouse, BPHE, RNCP, is a holistic nutritionist and a faculty member of the Institute of Holistic Nutrition. She contributes regularly to national health magazines and resides in Toronto, ON.

The book features 125 healthy and delicious recipes for babies and toddlers. In addition to the recipes themselves, one of my favorite features is the nutritional summary provided for each recipe. When you purchase pre-made baby food this information is available, so it is nice to have that for even healthier homemade food! Each recipe also has chef tips and nutrition tips to enhance what is being made. 

The Best Baby Food has four sections: Starting Solids, Establishing Preferences, Rood for Toddlers, and Snacks and Desserts. Since my little man is almost 12 months, we decided to try a recipe from the Establishing Preferences section: Chicken with Roasted Butternut Squash and Leeks. The simple ingredients and two step preparation were a breeze! And thanks to the tips and nutrient count, I know this recipe is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. 

I made it thick enough for Mr. G to feed himself, and this well-rounded meal was definitely a hit! All gone!

"The Best Baby Food" is available from Amazon and other book retailers.