Sweet Potato Leaves
Sweet potato leaves are a widely eaten vegetable in Asian households and are suitable for babies from around 6 months. They are tender, mildly flavored, and rich in nutrients, making them an excellent green for weaning.
How to serve
Steam or boil until very tender, then puree. Mix into congee, rice porridge, or mashed sweet potato for a familiar flavor pairing.
Finely chop the cooked leaves and add to soups, noodles, or scrambled eggs.
Stir-fry briefly with garlic and a touch of oil, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Nutrition
High in dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and B vitamins. Also contains iron and calcium. The fiber content supports healthy digestion, and the vitamins contribute to immune function and eye health.
Good to know
This food can be a choking hazard for babies. Prepare it in an age-appropriate size and texture, and always supervise your baby while eating.
Sweet potato leaves are not a common allergen and are very gentle on baby's stomach. They have a mild taste without the bitterness found in some other leafy greens, so babies tend to accept them easily.
Tip
Use only the young, tender leaves and tips of the stems. Discard thicker stems as they can be tough and stringy for babies. The leaves cook very quickly, so avoid overcooking to preserve nutrients.
