1. Preparation: Preheat the oven to 200 °C with fan-assisted heat, or bring water to a boil for the steam cooker. Wash vegetables and, if needed, peel (sweet potato, carrot). Check Tilapia for bones and remove them if necessary; cut into thick finger-friendly strips (about 2–3 cm wide, 6–8 cm long) – for baby-led weaning the pieces should be large enough for the child to hold.
2. Sweet potato and carrot: Cut the sweet potato into sticks 1–1.5 cm thick, cut the carrot into slightly thicker sticks. Place on a baking tray and rub lightly with about 5 g olive oil. Optionally lightly sprinkle with a pinch of mild dried thyme (not necessary for babies). Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes until the pieces are soft and yield when pierced. Alternatively, steam for 12–15 minutes until soft.
3. Broccoli: Break into small but firm florets (finger-sized). Steam or steam in a steamer basket over boiling water for 6–8 minutes until the florets are soft but still hold together; if needed, a bit longer so they become very soft and easy to grasp.
4. Tilapia: Warm a nonstick pan lightly, cook Tilapia strips without additional salt over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until the fish is fully cooked and slightly flaky. Check the center to ensure there are no pink spots. After cooking, cut the fish into larger, bite-sized pieces (so that the child can grab them well).
5. Check and arrange: Ensure all components are soft enough (slightly crush with a fork). On a plate, arrange pieces so the child can grab them easily: a few sweet potato sticks, carrot sticks, some broccoli florets, and pieces of Tilapia. Do not add extra salt or sugar; only a very small amount of olive oil is sufficient.
6. Safety while feeding: Have the child sit and supervise during meals. Remove visibly small bones from the fish. Offer a small amount initially to test tolerance.

Summary

A balanced Baby-led weaning lunch for babies from 10 months: gently cooked sweet potato and carrot sticks, soft broccoli florets, and well-cooked Tilapia pieces. This dish promotes grasping and chewing movements and provides carbohydrates, vegetables, and protein.

Storage

Let leftovers cool to room temperature within 1–2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours. When reheating in the oven or pan, bring to body temperature and ensure there are no hot spots. Do not reheat more than once.

Allergies & Notes

This plate contains fish (Tilapia) – a known fish allergen risk. Introduce new foods one at a time and wait 2–3 days to observe for possible reactions. Avoid added salt and honey for babies under 12 months. Check for bones and always supervise the child.