Hey Mamas! If you're a mom of a picky eater, you know the struggle is real when
it comes to getting those veggies in. But don't worry, I've got a secret weapon for you: Hidden Veggie Bolognese Sauce! It's a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic favorite that even the most discerning little palates will love. And the best part? They won't even realize they're eating a rainbow of veggies!
Why This Sauce is a Nutritional Powerhouse for Your Toddler
This Bolognese sauce isn't just about hiding veggies—it's packed with nutrients that are essential for your toddler's growth and development:
Iron: Ground beef is an excellent source of iron, a mineral that helps carry oxygen throughout the body and supports healthy brain development.
Vitamins and Minerals: The hidden veggies in this sauce provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A (important for vision), vitamin C (for immune health), and potassium (for healthy muscles and nerves).
Fiber: Veggies are a great source of fiber, which helps keep your toddler's digestive system happy and healthy.
Making it Baby-Friendly:
For babies under one year old, you can easily adapt this recipe to make it more suitable for their delicate tummies:
Skip the salt: Babies under one don't need added salt in their diet. You can omit the salt in this recipe altogether or add it at the table for older family members.
Reduce the spices: While oregano and basil are generally safe for babies, you might want to use a smaller amount or omit them altogether for very young babies.
Puree for smoother texture: If your baby is just starting solids, you can puree the sauce for a smoother consistency.
The Magic Recipe:
Ingredients:
1 pound (500 g) ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a leaner option)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, finely grated
1 zucchini, finely grated
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup water or beef broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional for babies under one)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Brown the ground beef and drain any excess fat.
Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the grated carrot, zucchini, and chopped bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the veggies are slightly tender.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, water (or broth), oregano, basil, and pepper. Add salt if desired for older family members.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally.
If desired, you can use an immersion blender to slightly blend the sauce for a smoother consistency. Or, leave it chunky for a more rustic texture.
Serving Suggestions & Mom Tips:
Serve this delicious Bolognese sauce over your favorite pasta.
Use it as a topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes.
Layer it in lasagna for a veggie-packed family meal.
Get creative! You can even use this sauce as a base for pizza or stuffed peppers.
You can add other finely chopped or grated veggies to this sauce, such as mushrooms, kale, or even cauliflower.
If you're short on time, you can use pre-chopped or frozen vegetables.
Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for a quick and easy meal on busy days.
Most importantly, have fun with it! Get your little one involved in the cooking process. Let them help you wash the veggies or stir the sauce. It's a great way to make mealtime a bonding experience.
I hope this recipe brings a little peace and deliciousness to your dinner table. Remember, mama, you're doing an amazing job!
If you enjoyed this post and think it might help another mama out there, please feel free to share it with your friends and family. It would mean the world to me! 😊