Annabel Karmel's Tasty Recipes

Fillets of plaice with carrots, cheese and tomato

Fish is an excellent low-fat source of protein and it is important to encourage a liking for fish early on. I find that one of the best fish to introduce to young babies is plaice as it purees to a smooth consistency. Here, I have mixed it with a tasty cheese and tomato sauce and carrots, so this recipe provides a good source of protein, calcium and vitamins.

250g carrots, peeled and sliced
225g plaice fillets, skinned
2 tbsp milk
40g unsalted butter
2 medium ripe tomatoes, skinned de-seeded and chopped
40g grated Cheddar cheese

Steam the carrots for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, place the fish in a microwave dish, add the milk, dot with about 15g butter and cover, leaving an air vent. Microwave on high for two to three minutes. Alternatively, put the fish in a pan, cover with a little milk and simmer for about three to four minutes or until cooked.

Melt the remaining butter in a saucepan, add the tomatoes and saute until mushy. Stir in the grated cheese until melted. Blend or mash the cooked carrots together with the tomato mixture. Remove the fish from the cooking liquor and flake, checking to make sure there are no bones. Mix the fish together with the carrots and tomatoes. For younger babies you can blend the fish together with the carrots and tomato for a smoother texture.

Makes 4 portions

Recipe from Annabel Karmel's Top 100 Baby Purees, published by Ebury. For more on nutrition and feeding your baby and toddler visit www.annabelkarmel.com