Yams for Babies
Complete guide on how to prepare and serve yams to your baby, by age.
Safety Information
How to Serve Yams to a 6–9 Months Old
How to Cut
For babies 6-9 months, yams should be peeled, cooked thoroughly (steamed or roasted), and mashed or pureed until very smooth. You can thin the mash with a little breast milk, formula, or water to create a soft consistency that’s easy for new eaters to swallow. Avoid chunks at this stage. A typical serving is about 30-60g (2-4 tbsp). Offer alone, or blend with a source of fat like a drizzle of olive oil, or combine with iron-rich foods. Always check temperature before serving.
Serving Instructions
Offer 30-60g (2-4 tbsp) of smooth yam puree as part of a balanced meal alongside iron-rich foods (like lentils or soft, finely minced meats) and a fat (like olive oil or avocado). Early eaters benefit from exposure to a variety of flavors and textures, but always ensure the yam is lump-free at this stage. Serve on a preloaded spoon or allow the baby to self-feed mashed yam with their hands.
How to Serve Yams to a 9–18 Months Old
How to Cut
Between 9-18 months, continue to offer yams well-cooked and soft. You can serve yam pieces mashed or in small, very soft bite-sized cubes or strips—about the size of your fingertip (1-2cm/½-¾ in). For babies who have developed their pincer grasp, small pea-sized pieces can be tried. Always ensure the yam is tender and easy to squish between your fingers to minimize choking risk. A serving of 60-90g (4-6 tbsp) is suitable, paired with proteins or fats for a balanced meal. Never serve raw or undercooked yam to this age group.
Serving Instructions
Serving size increases to 60-90g (4-6 tbsp) of soft yam—either mashed or cut into bite-sized soft cubes. Pair with a variety of vegetables, proteins (such as lentils, beans, tofu, soft cooked eggs, or finely minced meats) and a small amount of healthy fat. Encourage self-feeding with fingers or a fork. Continue to introduce new textures but monitor closely for readiness and any signs of difficulty chewing.
How to Serve Yams to a 18+ Months Old
How to Cut
From 18 months on, yams can be offered as small, soft cubes, half-moons, wedges, or as part of mixed dishes. Children at this stage can handle slightly firmer textures if developmentally ready, but yams should still be easy to break apart with gentle pressure. Continue to avoid large, hard, or raw pieces. A serving of 90-120g (6-8 tbsp or ½-¾ cup) is suitable, balanced with vegetables, protein, and healthy fats. Encourage children to self-feed under supervision, and always monitor for any signs of difficulty chewing or swallowing.
Serving Instructions
Offer 90-120g (6-8 tbsp or ½-¾ cup) of soft yam pieces, half-moons, or as part of casseroles and finger foods. Continue to balance with vegetables, legumes, animal or plant-based proteins, and a source of healthy fat. At this age, children can experiment with more complex flavor combinations. Encourage the use of utensils, supervise closely, and always serve yams cooked and soft for safety.
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