Introducing flavor to baby’s first purees: What you need to know

When we begin introducing solids to our babies, we often try to make tasty little meals with lots of care and attention. And of course, every time we prepare a new dish… we taste it ourselves! But let’s be honest, sometimes it’s just not that flavorful.

But that’s completely normal! Our taste buds are far more developed than baby’s. We shouldn’t forget that, up until now, their only experience with flavor has been milk and water. Their palate is still discovering everything!

 

Can I add spices to baby’s first purees?

In the very first purees, it’s best not to add spices. We want baby to become familiar with the natural flavor of each ingredient, one at a time. This helps them recognize tastes and also helps us spot any potential allergies or sensitivities early on.

Baby doesn’t like their puree? It’s probably not the taste…

If your baby makes a funny face when trying a new puree, don’t worry, it doesn’t mean they dislike it! Texture and taste are brand new to them, and they need time to adapt.

It often takes 10 or more exposures to a food before we can say baby truly doesn’t like it. So keep offering the same ingredients across several meals before drawing conclusions.

Adding flavor gradually: What Seasonings are safe, and when?

Once baby is around 6 months old and has tried a few basic purees and compotes, you can slowly start adding more flavor.

✅ From 8 months: Mild aromatics

You can begin introducing small amounts of onion, garlic, or shallot, always steamed to retain nutrients and soften the flavor. Cook them thoroughly (10 to 15 minutes) and use just a pinch to enhance baby’s meals without overwhelming their senses.

❌ What about salt?

Avoid adding salt until at least 12 months. Vegetables naturally contain sodium, and baby doesn’t need any extra at this stage.

When can baby have spices?

Starting at around 6 months, you can add a small pinch of mild spices like:

• Cumin
• Mild curry or turmeric
• Sweet paprika
• Cinnamon (like in this plum compote recipe)
• Fresh vanilla (like in this peach compote)

⚠️ Avoid hot or spicy seasonings! And use all spices sparingly, baby’s taste buds are still very sensitive.

What about fresh herbs?

Some herbs can really lift the flavor of baby’s meals without adding salt or sugar:

✅ From 6 months:

• Chives
• Thyme

✅ From 8 months:

• Coriander
• Basil
• Oregano
• Mint
• Parsley
• Dill

Let your baby explore these new flavors at their own pace! And as always, check with your pediatrician before introducing new ingredients, they’ll guide you based on your baby’s unique needs.