Broccoli may be offered as soon as your baby is ready to start solid foods, which is generally around 6 months of age. When prepared properly—steamed or roasted until very soft—broccoli is a wonderful early food that provides essential nutrients and opportunities for self-feeding. Always ensure the florets and stalks are soft enough to squish easily between your fingers before serving.
Broccoli is rich in iron, which supports healthy blood development and helps prevent anaemia in growing babies. It also provides vitamin C to boost iron absorption, fibre for digestive health, and folate for cell growth. The florets and stalks contain calcium and vitamin K, which contribute to strong bones and overall development.
Broccoli has a low choking risk when cooked until very soft and served appropriately for your baby's age. The florets naturally break apart when gummed or chewed, and the stalks can be cut into safe shapes that are easy for babies to grasp and manage.
Broccoli is not a common allergen and is considered safe for most babies. Allergic reactions to broccoli are rare, though some babies may experience mild digestive discomfort when first trying cruciferous vegetables.
Detailed prep guidance tailored to each stage.
Steam or roast broccoli florets and stalks until very soft—they should squish easily between your fingers. Serve the stalk in finger-length strips about the width of two adult fingers, or offer a whole floret with enough stalk attached for baby to grasp while the floret pokes out the top of their fist. You can also serve large floret wedges that are easy to hold and explore.
Continue to cook broccoli until soft, but you can now offer smaller pieces as your baby's pincer grasp develops. Serve soft florets broken into bite-sized pieces, coins sliced from the stalk, or short strips. All pieces should still mash easily between your fingers to ensure safety as your baby practises chewing.
Offer soft cooked broccoli in sizes that match your toddler's developing chewing and biting skills. You can serve small florets, chopped pieces, or continue with strips depending on what your child manages best. As chewing improves, broccoli can be slightly firmer but should still be well-cooked and tender enough to chew easily.
