1. Wash the parsnip thoroughly and peel with a vegetable peeler; discard any damaged parts.
2. Chop the parsnip into small cubes (about 1 cm) so they cook evenly.
3. Rinse the lentils under cold running water until the water runs clear.
4. Place the chopped parsnip and rinsed lentils in a small saucepan and add enough water to just cover them (approximately 300 ml).
5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until both parsnip and lentils are very soft and mash easily with a fork.
6. Turn off the heat and let cool slightly. Reserve some of the cooking liquid before draining.
7. Transfer the cooked parsnip and lentils to a blender or use a hand blender. Blend to a smooth puree, adding reserved cooking liquid a little at a time to reach the desired consistency: very smooth and thin for 4–6 months, a slightly thicker smooth puree for 7–10 months.
8. Check the temperature carefully before feeding — the puree should be warm or at room temperature, not hot.
9. Spoon-feed your baby in small amounts, observing for any immediate adverse reactions.

Short summary: Simple parsnip and lentil puree suitable for spoon-feeding as a dinner-style puree for babies; smooth texture for younger infants and slightly thicker for older babies.

Storing options

Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 48 hours. Freeze in ice-cube trays or small portions for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, checking temperature before serving. Do not refreeze once thawed.

Potential allergies

Lentils are legumes and can occasionally cause allergic reactions. Introduce this puree when other single foods have been tolerated, and introduce one new food at a time. If your baby is under the recommended age for solids in your region, consult your paediatrician before introducing legumes.

Side effects and cautions

Some babies may experience mild gas when first trying legumes. Stop feeding and seek medical advice if you notice rash, vomiting, swelling, difficulty breathing, or other signs of a severe allergic reaction. Do not add salt, sugar, honey, cow's milk, or other seasonings for babies under 1 year.