Plantains for Babies
Complete guide on how to prepare and serve plantains to your baby, by age.
Safety Information
How to Serve Plantains to a 6–9 Months Old
How to Cut
For babies 6-9 months, plantains should be thoroughly cooked until soft—steaming or boiling works well. Remove the peel, then mash or puree until smooth, adding breast milk, formula, or water for a thinner texture if needed. Alternatively, cook plantain and cut into spears about the size of an adult finger (5-7 cm / 2-3 in) so your baby can grasp and gnaw safely. Ensure all pieces are soft enough to squash easily between your fingers to minimize choking risk.
Serving Instructions
Offer 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 g / 0.5-1 oz) of thoroughly cooked, mashed or puréed plantains as part of a meal that also includes healthy fats (like a drizzle of olive oil or a bit of avocado) and a protein source (such as well-cooked beans or chicken). Pairing with foods high in vitamin C (like a squeeze of orange) can help support iron absorption. Always ensure variety on the plate and introduce new foods one at a time. Never serve raw plantain.
How to Serve Plantains to a 9–18 Months Old
How to Cut
At this age, plantains can continue to be offered cooked and mashed for spoon-feeding, or cut into bite-sized pieces (1-2 cm / ½-¾ in) if your child is able to pick up food using a pincer grasp. Always ensure the pieces are very soft. You may also offer thicker spears for independent eating. Supervise closely as your child becomes more adventurous with self-feeding.
Serving Instructions
Give 2-4 tablespoons (30-60 g / 1-2 oz) of soft, cooked plantain as part of a meal with vegetables, healthy fats, and a protein source. Encourage your child to self-feed with fingers or pre-loaded utensils. Continue to pair with vitamin C sources and offer a balance of starchy, colorful foods and proteins. Watch for signs that your child is ready for slightly firmer textures and adjust meal components accordingly.
How to Serve Plantains to a 18+ Months Old
How to Cut
After 18 months, offer cooked plantains cut into small, manageable pieces (about 1-2 cm / ½-¾ in). At this age, many toddlers can handle slightly larger chunks, but always ensure they are soft and easy to chew. You may also introduce plantains incorporated in other dishes, like stews or fritters, as long as the texture remains safe and pieces are not hard or sticky. Continue to supervise your child during meals to ensure safety.
Serving Instructions
Offer 1/4 to 1/2 of a small cooked plantain (about 40-80 g / 1.5-3 oz) as part of a varied meal with protein, vegetables, and healthy fats. At this stage, plantains can be served as finger food, mixed into casseroles, or as part of pancakes or fritters. Continue to serve plantains soft and in safe sizes. Always supervise your toddler while eating, and encourage them to chew thoroughly.
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