Amazon Time Saver No. 1

Hello!

Welcome to a new series, where I will be looking at some damn amazing devices that can save you a minute (or five), in your day-to-day parenting life.

I'll let you in on a secret, I discovered this nifty little winner WAY too late in the parenting-game. I have been a parent for close to four years now, which means that for close to 3 and a half years, I have been spending a ridiculous amount of time cutting apples and pears.

From first foods for babies to a go-to mid-morning snack (did someone say constipation??) for toddlers, if your house is anything like mine, apples and pears (not to mention potatoes), rule the world.

OXO Good Grips Apple Corer and Cutter 

A few recipes that will come in handy:

Pureed Apple/Pear (First foods, 4 - 7 months of age)

1. Use a peeler to remove the skin, then core and cut the fruit.
2. Place in a large saucepan, covering with tap water.
3. Place on the stovetop covered, bring water to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat, and strain fruit from the water.
5. Allow the fruit to cool and then puree in a food processor (if you feel like the mixture is too thick, add some breastmilk or a dash of water from the pot).
6. Serve immediately, keep in the fridge in an airtight container or use an ice-cube tray to freeze.

*Added note: Keep the water and place back on the stove on high heat covered to reduce. You now have apple and pear juice to enjoy for yourself!

Stewed Apple/Pear (Finger foods, 5+ months of age)

This is a great first-line option if you're concerned about your baby/toddler having issues constipation.

1. Use a peeler to remove the skin, then core and cut the fruit.
2. Place in a large saucepan, covering with tap water.
3. Place on the stovetop covered, bring water to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 5 minutes (or whenever the fruit can be picked up, maintaining its shape but a fork can be pierced through)
4. Remove from heat, strain fruit from the water.
5. Allow to cool completely, serve in a bowl.

Apple & Cinnamon Yoghurt

This is a great snack option that your baby (when ready to consume solids and is moving onto 'lumpy and chunky' foods), toddler or older child will love!

Ingredients:

• Greek Yoghurt
• 2 x Apple (any variety)
• A dash of Cinnamon

Steps:

1. Use a peeler to remove the skin, then core and cut the apple.
2. Place in a large saucepan, covering with tap water.
3. Place on the stovetop covered, bring water to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat, and strain fruit from the water.
5. With a fork, roughly break up the apple (it can still be relatively chunky - tailor this to your child's needs).
6. Combine apple with as much Greek Yoghurt as desired, add a dash of cinnamon and stir in well.
7. Serve immediately or keep in the fridge.

Just so you know! As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying sales. This in no way impacts the critique about which products I suggest to the Safe Hands community.