Avocado might be the perfect first food. It needs no cooking, has a naturally creamy texture babies love, and is packed with the healthy fats that support brain development. Best of all, it grows with your baby — the same avocado becomes a smooth purée, a soft mash, or self-feeding strips depending on the stage you're at.
Silky purée
Scoop out a ripe avocado and mash it very smooth with a fork, or blend it. Loosen with a little breast milk, formula, or water until it's the consistency of thick cream — easy to spoon-feed.
Soft mash
As your baby gets used to texture, mash the avocado a little more coarsely, leaving small soft lumps. This helps them learn to move food around their mouth and chew.
Ripe finger strips
Cut a ripe (but not mushy) avocado into thick strips or wedges your baby can grip. Rolling the strips in a little baby cereal or fine crushed oats gives extra grip if they're slippery.
Why it's a great first food
Use ripe, soft avocado — firm chunks can be a choking hazard. For finger strips, make sure they're soft enough to squish easily between your fingers. Always supervise your baby while eating.
Keep reading: Starting solids: a complete guide · Introducing allergens safely
This recipe is for general information and isn't medical advice. Talk to your pediatrician about your baby's readiness for solids, appropriate textures, and any concerns about choking or diet.