Chicken Liver Spread

Cook chicken liver fully, then purée it smooth or mash it and mix into a vegetable purée so the texture is soft. It's very rich in iron. Because of its high vitamin A, general guidance is to keep it to about once a week. Never serve it as pâté.

Onion is usually a flavor base rather than a food on its own at this age. Cook it down until very soft and blend it into purées, mashes, or sauces. Raw onion is sharp and firm, so keep it out for now.

Cinnamon is a warm, sweet-smelling spice that adds flavor without any sugar. Stir a small pinch of ground cinnamon into oatmeal, mashed banana, apple or pear puree, or plain yogurt. Always mix it fully into a moist food rather than serving it as loose dry powder.

Stir a small drizzle of olive oil into a smooth purée or soft mash to add calories and richness. Use it as a cooking fat for vegetables or grains, or fold a little into the finished food just before serving.

Lightly toast bread so it holds together, then cut it into finger-width strips your baby can grip. Toasting helps it firm up instead of turning gummy in the mouth. Most bread contains wheat, so introduce it on its own and watch for a reaction. Choose lower-salt bread when you can.