Q&A for How to Puree Meat

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  • Question
    When can I puree meat for my baby?
    Monica Moreno, MS, RD, LD/N
    Registered Dietitian
    Monica Moreno is a Registered Dietitian and the Founder, Owner, and Lead Dietitian at Essence Nutrition in Miami, Florida. Monica specializes in nutrition consulting and school and corporate wellness programs. She holds a BA from The University of Florida and an MS in Dietetics and Nutrition from Florida International University. Monica was the dietitian for the Miami Marlins for close to 5 years, and she is currently visiting dietitian specialist at Ocean Reef Resort and Club. Monica is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Nutrition Entrepreneurs Dietetics Practice Group, Integrative Nutrition Dietetics Practice Group, Collegiate and Professionals Sports Dietitians Association, and Weight Management Dietetic Practice Group. She was awarded the 2020 Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce Business Woman in Healthcare of the Year award.
    Registered Dietitian
    Expert Answer
    If you and your doctor have decided that the baby is ready for solid foods, then they are ready for pureed meat. Meat is actually the first thing that I gave my son. That is because heme iron, which is the iron that we absorb from animal sources, is the most bioavailable and most absorbable form of iron, and is one of the most critical nutrients that babies need in their diets. Breast milk is very low in iron, so the most important nutrient that we need to supplement with solid foods is iron.
  • Question
    How do I clean the blender?
    Josiah Rondeau
    Community Answer
    Just run it under some warm water to get the majority of it off. Then, use some soapy water and a scratchy sponge to get under the blades and in the cracks of the blender.
  • Question
    Can I puree scrambled eggs?
    Caeiia
    Top Answerer
    Sure. If you cook them a certain way, they'll be soft enough anyway.
  • Question
    How can I rewire my body's cravings for unhealthy foods, juice, and snacks?
    Anthony Wojtylo
    Community Answer
    To rewire your body's cravings for unhealthy foods, try substituting unhealthy options with healthier ones, adopt mindful eating practices, maintain balanced meals, drink plenty of water, opt for fiber-rich and protein-packed foods, and establish regular eating schedules to avoid extreme hunger. Additionally, practice portion control with smaller plates, keep a food journal to track habits and identify triggers, manage stress with relaxation techniques, prioritize adequate sleep, and engage in regular exercise.
  • Question
    Can I purée pork with gravy?
    Anthony Wojtylo
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can purée pork with gravy to create a flavorful and moist texture, especially for those who have difficulty swallowing or need softer food textures. Ensure the pork is well-cooked and tender, then blend it with the gravy for a smooth consistency. Adding gravy enhances both the flavor and texture.
  • Question
    How do you puree canned tuna fish? Can you use the same method for canned chicken or salmon?
    Anthony Wojtylo
    Community Answer
    To puree canned tuna, drain the excess liquid, place the tuna in a food processor or blender, and add a small amount of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency. Blend until smooth, adjusting the liquid as needed. You can puree canned chicken or salmon in a similar way by draining the meat and blending it with liquid to reach the preferred texture.
  • Question
    How do I puree dehydrated onions?
    Anthony Wojtylo
    Community Answer
    To puree dehydrated onions, first rehydrate them by soaking in hot water for 15-20 minutes until plump. Drain excess water, then blend in a food processor or blender with a bit of water or broth until smooth. Adjust the liquid as needed for your desired consistency.
  • Question
    What is the best food processor for pureeing meat for the elderly?
    Anthony Wojtylo
    Community Answer
    The best food processor for pureeing meat for the elderly should prioritize ease of use and safety. A model with simple, intuitive controls and a durable, high-quality blade is essential. The Cuisinart DLC-8SY Pro Custom 11-Cup Food Processor is a popular choice, as it's reliable, easy to clean, and has the capacity to handle pureeing meat and other foods effectively. Its large feed tube and sharp stainless-steel blade make it efficient for processing meat to a desirable texture for elderly individuals with dental challenges.
  • Question
    Should I measure a 4 oz. serving of puree food before or after pureeing?
    shoqlo99
    Community Answer
    It's better to measure it after pureeing, as the weight may change during the process, and you'll get a more accurate measurement.
  • Question
    Can I use a pressure cooker for preparation, or do I need to boil or braise?
    Anthony Wojtylo
    Community Answer
    Pressure cooking is an effective and efficient method for food preparation, particularly when you're looking to save time without compromising on flavor and tenderness. It uses steam pressure to cook food quickly, making it an excellent choice for dishes that typically require boiling or braising. Pressure cooking is especially advantageous for tenderizing tough cuts of meat, legumes, and vegetables, as it significantly reduces cooking times compared to traditional methods. The high pressure helps break down fibers and infuse flavors into the ingredients.
  • Question
    Should I add milk to pureed meat before feeding it to my baby?
    Anthony Wojtylo
    Community Answer
    It's generally not necessary to add milk to pureed meat for a baby. When introducing solid foods, prioritize nutritional needs. While breast milk or formula provides essential nutrients, mixing it with pureed meat can dilute its nutritional value. Introduce meats as a standalone food, ensuring they are thoroughly cooked, finely pureed, and textured appropriately for your baby's developmental stage.
  • Question
    Can I puree ham using only gravy from the blender, or do I need to add more water?
    Anthony Wojtylo
    Community Answer
    When pureeing ham with gravy, you can blend them together without adding water. The gravy will provide the necessary moisture for a smooth puree. Be sure the ham is cooked and cut into small pieces, then gradually add the gravy to achieve your desired consistency.
  • Question
    Should I try to remove all fats from the meat or just let as much cook off as I can?
    shoqlo99
    Community Answer
    Let the fat cook off as much as you can. In moderation, fat can be beneficial for flavor and texture.
  • Question
    How long does mixed pureed food last in a refrigerator?
    Anthony Wojtylo
    Community Answer
    Mixed pureed food typically lasts in a refrigerator for two or three days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its quality and safety. If you have leftovers that you won't consume within that time frame, consider freezing them for storage.
  • Question
    Can you puree bacon?
    Community Answer
    You can just about puree anything. The most important part is the moisture and tenderness of the meat. Bacon is normally crispy or thick. Cook it tenderly by adding broth to it and then blending it with the broth as well. The consistency will change depending on how long blended and how much broth is used.
  • Question
    Can I puree canned tuna fish with a hand blender?
    Community Answer
    Yes, I do all the time and it doesn't turn out bad.
  • Question
    What types of foods are enjoyable after blending in a blender?
    Community Answer
    Bananas, chicken breast, apples, rice, turkey, fish, eggs, plantains, cassava, avocado, pears, steaks, lamb, things in those categories all work really well when blended.
  • Question
    How do I clean my blender and cutting board after pureeing meat?
    Community Answer
    Clean the board with Brillo pads. A home remedy would be to ball up aluminum foil and scrub, scrub, scrub. This works for tough stick to pot and pans as well. For cleaning the blender, see How to Clean a Blender .
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