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Steam or roast fennel wedges until they are completely soft and easily pierced with a fork, which usually takes 15 to 20 minutes depending on thickness. Cut the fennel bulb into finger-length strips or large wedges that your baby can hold in their fist with some sticking out to gum. You can lightly drizzle with olive oil before roasting to add healthy fats and make the pieces easier to grip.
Continue to cook fennel until very soft, then cut it into smaller pieces such as thick coins or shorter strips that your baby can pick up with their developing pincer grasp. The pieces should still mash easily between your fingers to ensure they are safe and manageable. You can mix cooked fennel with other soft vegetables or serve it alongside proteins like flaked fish or lentils.
Offer soft cooked fennel in bite-sized pieces that match your toddler's chewing ability, which may be smaller chunks or thin slices depending on their skill level. Fennel can be added to family meals such as pasta dishes, soups, or grain bowls for variety. As your toddler's chewing improves, you can offer slightly firmer cooked fennel, but always ensure it can still be easily mashed with gentle pressure.
Fennel bulb is a good source of vitamin C, which supports your baby's immune system and helps their body absorb iron from other foods. It also provides fibre to support healthy digestion, along with folate and potassium. The mild, slightly sweet flavour introduces babies to new tastes while offering gentle nutrients for their developing bodies.
Fennel bulb is not a common allergen, though reactions are possible as with any food. In rare cases, individuals with birch pollen allergies may experience oral allergy syndrome when eating fennel, though this is uncommon in babies.
Always supervise meals. Adjust textures to your baby's stage. Medical questions belong with your health professional. Source: babyledweaningfoods.com/foods/fennel-bulb