Baby-Friendly Pinto Beans (Frijoles de la Olla)

Great for ages 6+ months (puré for younger babies, mash or serve whole for older babies). Make sure the beans are very soft if serving whole.

You can find a quick how-to video here.

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried pinto beans

• ½ large onion, peeled

• 3 garlic cloves, peeled

• 1 bay leaf

• 8–10 cups water (enough to cover beans by 2–3 inches)

Do not add salt — baby kidneys are sensitive to sodium.

Instructions

1. Rinse and sort beans. Remove any debris or damaged beans. Wash the beans thoroughly.

2. Combine ingredients in a pot. Beans, onion, garlic, bay leaf, and water.

3. Bring to a boil. Once it’s at a boil, lower the heat to a low simmer. Cook for about 2 hours, or until the beans are very soft and mash easily. Add more water if needed.

4. Remove bay leaf, onion, garlic. For baby, you can discard these, or leave for flavor if serving adults.

5. Serve or store

   • For babies 6–7 months: purée until smooth.

   • For babies 8+ months: mash lightly or serve soft whole beans.

   • For older toddlers: serve as a side or base.

Freezing Tips

• Cool beans completely.

• Portion into silicone trays or small glass containers.

• Keeps up to 3 months.