Aubergines

Aubergines are vegetables full of assets for both grown-ups and little ones!

The benefits of aubergines

Aubergines are vegetables rich in water (over 90%) and are therefore part of the group of vegetables with the lowest calorie content, like endives or tomatoes.

Moreover, they have a large number of nutrients and minerals: magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, provitamin A, vitamin B (B3, B6, B9), C and E.

Aubergines are rich in fibre and thus help the baby’s digestion, especially when steamed.

Aubergines have edible skin: they contain many antioxidants, especially when their colour is very strong.

Tips

It is advisable to choose aubergines with smooth, firm and bright skin: it will not be bitter and contain few seeds. They will be accordingly better accepted by the baby.

Aubergines go well with tomatoes, meat, peppers, garlic, olive oil and herbs.

Aubergines can be cooked in the oven, fried, steamed, in water, in a pan or microwave. Cooking times will differ depending on the cooking method.

Aubergines will keep for some days in the fridge in the vegetable compartment (between 1 and 2 weeks). You can also freeze them. First you need to wash them – you can either peel or not, as you wish – cut them into slices and blanch in water with some lemon juice. They keep well in the freezer.

The baby can eat aubergines from when it is 6 months old, peeled and seeded. And the whole vegetable from 8 months, by ‘striping’ the skin when it is weaned onto solid food.

Conclusion

Aubergines are vegetables rich in nutrients and vitamins. If you choose the right variety, the baby will taste dishes with aubergines without pulling a face while filling up with good things!