Deep Freeze

Image by Wendy Copley via Flickr

I usually make Dylan's baby food in big batches and stick in the freezer.  I find that this works best for me because it means that I only have to pull the food processor out about every two weeks.  You can keep frozen baby food in the freezer for 3-6 months.  I don't recommend storing in the fridge.  It only keeps in the fridge for about 48 hours.

They sell lots of options for storage containers these days.  I use a variety of plastic containers.  I started out with Baby Cubes...they hold 2 ounces of puree and come with a convenient tray to hold the individual cubes.  They are also BPA free.  I also recommend using ice cube trays.  It's cost effective and limits the amount of food waste because you can just defrost as many cubes as you need (each cube is about 1 ounce).  If using the ice cube tray method, pour the puree into the trays, once the puree is frozen, pop out the cubes and store them in freezer bags.  Make sure to label and date the bags.  I have been having my friends who use store bought baby food, save the plastic containers for me.  They stack nicely in the freezer and they are free!  The Gladware Mini Rounds work great too but they are kind of pricey.

After pureeing your baby food, fill the containers leaving about a quarter of an inch of space from the top.  This will ensure that your lid will stay on because the puree will expand as it freezes.  If your puree is hot allow it to cool to room temperature before putting the lid on and putting in the freezer.  Do not store your baby food in the freezer door.  This will make sure that the temperature remains constant and prevent it from defrosting prematurely.  If you place puree in the refrigerator for short term storage (less then 48 hours) do not keep it in the door, put it in the back on the top shelf...this is the coldest part of the fridge.   

You may have a variety of results when freezing different types of foods.  Check out the freezing chart at the link below:
http://www.wholesomebabyfood.com/baby-food-freezing-chart.htm

When you get ready to use your frozen baby food you have a few options for defrosting.  I do not recommend just leaving it out on the counter to defrost...to much of an opportunity for bacteria to grow.  I will usually pull out what I am going to use the night before and let it defrost in the refrigerator.  If I need to use it right away, I will take it from the freezer and defrost in the microwave for 2 minutes on defrost (power level 2-3).  Add 30 seconds as needed.