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How to make a delicious mango puree out of fresh (or frozen) mango. It’s perfect for serving to baby or to use in recipes.
I don’t know about you, but when I was first introducing Olivia to solids, I definitely went with the obvious choices like sweet potato, banana, avocado and then started exploring foods with more unique flavors.
Mango puree wasn’t something I thought of immediately, but it was the perfect next step. It’s naturally sweet and when blended has a super creamy consistency! It quickly became one of Olivia’s favorite purees.
Absolutely, yes! Rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, mango is especially high in vitamins A and C. Mangos also contain a group of digestive enzymes called amylases (source). These digestive enzymes help to break down larger food molecules, allowing your body to more easily digest them – this is especially great for little tummies just starting with solid foods!
Because mangos contain plenty of water and dietary fiber, it’s believed to help relieve constipation and even diarrhea. As baby is introduced to new foods they may experience some gastrointestinal issues (like constipation) and mango puree may help alleviate them! (source)
Making mango puree is super simple! First you’ll want peel the mango with a paring knife and chop it into chunks. They don’t need to be too precise since you’ll be blending them up. Next, place the diced mango into a high powered blender or food processor.
And blend until smooth!
If the puree is too thick you can add a little water or milk to thin, starting with 1 teaspoon or 1 Tablespoon and adding more as needed. If you’re making this for a baby around 6-9 months I recommend using breastmilk or formula to thin the puree, just for the added nutrients.
For early stage 1 eaters, mango puree is great served straight up with a spoon. Once baby starts moving into stage 2 and 3 foods you can make fun combination purees (see ideas below) or add mango puree to different foods like yogurt, smoothies and oatmeal. My baby oatmeal recipe would be delicious with mango puree stirred in.
With its natural sweetness and creaminess, mango puree pairs well with so many things! Here are some pairing ideas to help make vegetables and grains more palatable to baby:
Here are some baby food combos with mango that might be fun to try:
Pineapple and mango is a great combo that I share in my stage 2 baby food combinations post!
Using a high powered blender or food processor should result in a very smooth consistency, but if you prefer you can put your mango puree through a sieve to reduce the fibers.
When selecting a mango, look for a fruit that gives slightly when squeezed. You only need to apply gentle pressure, similar to a ripe avocado or peach. You will also notice a slightly sweet aroma from the stem.
Yes! Frozen mango retains the same health benefits as fresh mango thanks to technologies in flash freezing. You can definitely use frozen mango to make puree. Just thaw the mango overnight in the refrigerator, at room temp or using the defrost setting in your microwave. One thawed, add the chunks to your blender or food process and puree.
Yes, as long as you cook the mango first! You shouldn’t let frozen foods thaw, puree and re-freeze without cooking them. So if you use frozen mango to make the puree, serve immediately or store in the fridge for a few days, but do not freeze it again unless you cook it. If you cook the frozen mango (simmer or steam on the stovetop) and then puree it, it will be safe to freeze.
Check out this easy how to cut a mango guide for the best tips and tricks!
Fresh mango baby food should be stored in the fridge and used within 3-4 days. For longer storage, I recommend freezing the puree! I like using silicone ice cube tray or freezer safe jars because they make it easier to thaw smaller amounts for serving to babies.
reminder! You shouldn’t let frozen foods thaw (without cooking), puree and re-freeze. So if you use frozen mango to make puree, serve immediately or store in the fridge for a few days but do not freeze it again.
I recommend thawing frozen mango puree in the fridge the night before you want to use it, but you can also thaw it quickly with a warm water bath. It thaws quickly if you’re defrosting a small amount to serve to a baby.
Mango puree is great for babies, but there are so many other ways for older kids and adults to enjoy it too. Here are some ideas:
Be sure to check out my full collection of mango recipes as well as all of the baby food recipes here on EBF.
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