"Sopas" is a beloved Filipino comfort food, and this baby-friendly version is sure to be a hit with your little one! This Creamy Chicken & Veggie "Sopas" is a smooth and satisfying soup perfect for babies transitioning to thicker purees or exploring new textures. It's packed with tender chicken, soft vegetables, and tiny macaroni, making it a nutritious and delicious meal.
Why This "Sopas" is a Mealtime Favorite:
- Warm and Comforting: Perfect for a chilly day or when your baby needs a soothing meal.
- Nutrient-Rich: Chicken provides protein, while the vegetables offer essential vitamins and minerals.
- Easy to Eat: The small macaroni and soft vegetables are easy for babies to manage.
- Flavorful and Appealing: The combination of chicken, veggies, and a creamy broth creates a delicious flavor.
- Customizable: You can swap out the veggies to suit your baby's taste and developmental stage.
Recipe: Creamy Chicken & Veggie "Sopas" for Babies
Ingredients:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 1/2 pound)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup zucchini, chopped
- 1/4 cup very small macaroni (like ditalini or pastina)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or homemade broth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk (breast milk, formula, or cow's milk - for babies over 1 year) or coconut milk (dairy free option)
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken: Poach the chicken breast in the chicken broth until it is cooked through. Remove the chicken and shred it finely with two forks. Set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the carrot and zucchini. Cook until they are tender.
- Add Macaroni: Add the tiny macaroni to the pot and cook according to package directions until very soft.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the shredded chicken back to the pot. Stir in the milk (or coconut milk) and heat through. Do not boil.
- Blend (Optional): For younger babies, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to a smoother consistency.
- Serve: Let the "sopas" cool slightly before serving to your baby.
Serving Tips:
- For babies just starting stage 2, you can blend the soup to a very smooth consistency. As they progress, you can leave it a bit chunkier.
- Serve small spoonfuls of the "sopas."
- You can also add other soft cooked vegetables, like finely chopped spinach or peas.
- Freeze leftover "sopas" in ice cube trays for easy portioning and later use.
Why Parents Will Love This Recipe:
- Healthy and Nutritious: A great way to provide a balanced and complete meal for baby.
- Versatile: You can easily swap out the vegetables for other baby-friendly options.
- Comforting and Soothing: Perfect for when baby isn't feeling their best.
- Baby-Approved: A delicious and nutritious meal that babies will enjoy!