Cheesy Tuna Potato Tots for Babies: A Nutritious and Delicious Finger Food for 7 month baby & up
How To Safely Introduce Tuna To Babies (lower mercury):
I am always searching for ways to properly and safely make foods for little one's, when it comes to introducing tuna to your baby's diet, although it can be a nutritious choice you have to be cautious due to potential concerns like mercury levels.
Safe Catch Tuna is the one company I fully trust serving to my whole household, including my little one. Every can is hand selected and tested to a mercury limit 10x lower than the FDA action limit. It is 100% pure tuna, wild-caught, with no added preservatives.
Why Cheesy Tuna Potato Tots for Babies & Toddlers?
Cheesy tuna potato tots are a delightful, nutrient-packed snack or meal option for babies. They come out so soft and are great for baby-led weaning (BLW) and for babies who are transitioning from purees to solids. Combining the natural flavors of tuna, the creaminess of potatoes, and the melty goodness of cheese, these tots are not only delicious but also easy for little one's to pick up and enjoy!
- Easy to Handle:
These tots are soft yet firm enough for babies to pick up, making them ideal for self-feeding and developing fine motor skills.
- Balanced Nutrition:
Combining protein, carbs, and fats, these tots are a complete meal in a bite-sized package.
- Allergen Introduction:
They provide a gentle and safe way to introduce fish into your baby’s diet, an important allergen to include early.
- Freezer-Friendly:
You can make a batch of these tots and freeze them for quick, nutritious meals or snacks during busy days.
Nutritional Benefits of Cheesy Tuna Potato Tots:
- Tuna for Brain Development:
Tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, which supports brain development and cognitive growth in babies. It’s also a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle development and repair. Using Safe Catch tuna ensures that your baby gets the benefits of fish without concerns about high mercury levels.
- Potatoes for Energy:
Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, offering a steady source of energy for active little ones. They’re also a good source of vitamin C, which helps with iron absorption and supports a healthy immune system.
- Cheese for Flavor and Calcium:
Cheese not only adds a creamy, savory flavor that appeals to babies but also provides calcium and protein, supporting healthy bones and teeth.
Allergen Introduction for Tuna:
- Fish Allergies: Fish is a common allergen, and introducing tuna should be done cautiously, especially if your family has a history of food allergies.
- When to Introduce: According to pediatric recommendations, you can introduce fish as early as 6 months old. Start with a small amount and observe for any signs of an allergic reaction, if concerned consult with your pediatrician.
Substitutions:
Tuna- The tuna is the star of the show, but if you'd like you can swap for another fish of choice.
Potato- I used a gold potato for this recipe, I believe it works best. Do not substitute with another potato.
Cheese- Shredded mozzarella is best for this recipe, since it is naturally lower in sodium. You can swap for another shredded cheese of choice. If you need to omit the cheese you can add 1-2 tbsp of flour or gluten-free flour to hold the tot together. You can also mash some tuna with potato and a splash of lemon and serve it in a bowl.
If you enjoyed this recipe, here are a few more ways you can introduce fish to baby:
Broccoli Sweet Potato Salmon Tots
Salmon Mashed Potatoes
Cod Asparagus Potato Tots
Pair any one of my fish recipes with my
baby-friendly Tarter Sauce!