Baby-led weaning · age-specific guide
Chicory for 12–24 months
Chicory may be introduced as soon as your baby is ready to start solid foods, which is generally around 6 months of age. When prepared properly by cooking until very soft, chicory can be a nutritious vegetable to offer during baby-led weaning. Its naturally bitter flavour may take some time for babies to accept, so repeated exposure without pressure is key.
How to serve at 12–24 months
Offer cooked chicory in pieces sized to match your toddler's growing chewing skills, which may include smaller strips or chopped pieces. While the chicory should still be soft and easy to chew, toddlers at this age can typically manage slightly firmer textures than younger babies. Continue to cook chicory thoroughly, and consider mixing it into pasta, grain bowls, or serving it as a side vegetable alongside family meals.
Nutrition highlights
Chicory is a good source of fibre, which supports healthy digestion in babies. It also contains vitamin K, important for blood clotting and bone health, as well as folate and vitamin A. The prebiotic inulin found in chicory helps promote beneficial gut bacteria, supporting your baby's developing digestive system.
Lower-risk serving reminders
When cooked until very soft, chicory presents a low choking risk as it becomes tender enough for babies to gum and mash with their mouths. The leaves and tender parts break down easily, making them safe for babies who are learning to eat.
Allergen introduction checklist
Chicory is not a common allergen and is generally well tolerated by babies. As with any new food, introduce chicory on its own and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, though such reactions are rare with this vegetable.
Common questions
Why does my baby make faces when eating chicory
Chicory has a naturally bitter flavour that babies may initially find unfamiliar, as they are born preferring sweet tastes. Continued exposure over time helps babies learn to accept and even enjoy bitter vegetables like chicory.
Can I serve chicory raw to my baby
Raw chicory is too firm and fibrous for babies and young toddlers to manage safely. Always cook chicory until very soft before offering it to children under 2 years old.
What type of chicory is best for babies
Both Belgian endive and radicchio work well for babies when cooked until tender. Choose fresh chicory with crisp leaves and no browning, and cook thoroughly to soften the texture.
General feeding checklist
- Seat baby upright and stable for all meals.
- Model slow chewing and allow baby to control pace.
- Stop and reset if baby is upset, tired, or over-stuffed.
Readiness signs to check
- Baby can sit upright with minimal support during meals.
- Hands and mouth coordinate for bringing food to the mouth.
- Tongue-thrust reflex is reduced, so food is not immediately pushed out.
- Interest in self-feeding and opening mouth for food cues is visible.
Pause and seek advice if
- Coughing is persistent or distress does not settle quickly during meals.
- You notice repeated vomiting, rash, swelling, wheeze, or breathing changes after a food.
- Baby struggles with swallowing progression over multiple meals despite texture adjustments.
- There is a known medical condition affecting feeding, growth, or airway safety.
Other ages: 6–8 months · 9–11 months