7-Month-Old Baby Food Recipe: Rich in Iron and Natural Spices

Introducing herbs and spices, such as basil, from an early age can help develop a baby's appetite and introduce them to natural flavors. At 7 months , your little one's iron and protein needs increase. This Thai Basil Beef recipe combines nutrient-rich beef with the distinctive aroma of Thai basil, creating a savory, aromatic, and highly nutritious complementary food.
Suitable to be served as a soft puree or adapted for the Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) method so that babies can learn to eat independently.

🍃 Why is Thai Basil Beef Suitable for 7-Month-Old Baby Food?

Introduce Spices Early: The distinctive aroma of Thai basil helps expand your baby's palate and accustom them to natural flavors without added salt.
Rich in Protein & Iron: Beef contains easily absorbed animal protein and heme iron, which is important for preventing anemia and supporting growth and development.
Varied & Interesting Menu: Delicious alternatives to the daily menu to keep your baby from getting bored and keep them excited about eating.
Full of Vegetable Nutrition: The addition of tomatoes, baby green beans, and semi-corn enriches vitamins, minerals, and fiber for digestion and immunity.

🥣 Ingredients (for 1 meal, ±90–100 gr)

3 tbsp cooked white rice
30 grams of minced beef
10 grams of baby green beans, finely chopped
5 grams of semi-corn (optional)
¼ tomato (seeds removed, finely chopped)
60–70 ml beef stock (adjust texture)

👉 Use homemade beef broth , see the recipe here → Mummasphere Homemade Beef Broth Recipe

🌿 Aromatic Seasonings

(Discard before serving)

Garlic
Red onion
Ginger
Thai basil leaves / basil

👩🍳 How to Make

Prepare the ingredients: Finely chop the shallots, garlic, beef, green beans, and corn kernels. Peel and chop the tomatoes, discarding the skin and seeds. Bruise the ginger and chop the basil leaves.
Sauté the spices: Heat a little oil. Sauté the shallots, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
Cook the meat: Add the minced beef, stir until it changes color and is cooked.
Add vegetables: Add baby green beans and corn, stir until wilted.
Add tomatoes & rice: Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
Pour in the stock and basil: Gradually add the beef stock, then add the basil leaves. Cook until everything is tender and combined.
Remove the spices: Remove the ginger and tomato skin before serving or pureeing.

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🧁 Customize Texture

For Puree Porridge (6–8 months)
Blend briefly using a blender or mash with a fork until it has a soft but slightly rough texture so your baby can learn to chew.

For BLW (8+ months)
Serve chopped baby green beans or steamed carrots as finger food. Beef and rice can be pureed into a sauce or served as a smooth mixture.

🌟 Benefits of This Recipe

Beef: A great source of heme iron & protein, essential for preventing anemia and supporting muscle growth.
Thai Basil Leaves: Provides a distinctive aroma and unique taste, introduces spices early and contains natural antioxidants.
Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C to help iron absorption & contain lycopene as an antioxidant.
Baby Beans & Semi-Corn: A source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for digestion and immunity.

❓ FAQ

1. Can this recipe be saved?
Yes. Store in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours . Reheat before serving.

2. What if the baby is allergic to beef?
Replace with finely chopped chicken or soft tofu as an alternative source of protein.

3. What is the difference between the puree and BLW versions?
The puree version is suitable for babies starting solid food who need a soft texture, while the BLW version helps babies learn to grasp and recognize the shape of whole foods.

4. Is basil safe for babies?
Yes, as long as it's used in small amounts and thoroughly cooked. Basil is safe and helps enhance the natural flavor without added salt.

5. Can I use oyster sauce or baby soy sauce?
Not recommended for babies under 1 year. Simply utilize the natural flavors of the meat and spices.