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Lately I’ve been in a rut with the food I’ve been serving my toddler, so when I was asked to review Organically Raised: Conscious Cooking for Babies and Toddlers by Anni Daulter, the timing was perfect. This book is exactly what I needed to reinvigorate my excitement for cooking.

It opens with reasons to buy organic, locally grown and seasonal food.  No matter how many times we read or hear those concepts it’s always great to be reminded, and Daulter nudges us in a graceful way. 

There are also inspiring Mama Mantras throughout the book, such as “Preparing healthy, delicious food is my gift to my family,” and “I am learning and growing with my baby, and every day I see the world with new eyes.”  These paired with the beautiful photos of both children and food add such a refreshing touch and  make the pages stand out from the monotony of most other cookbooks.

Organically Raised is filled with simple, delicious recipes that are easy to follow and incredibly nourishing. Each recipe clearly recommends the season it is best for, and the ingredients that will support your child’s health throughout the year.  There are also tips on what to keep in your kitchen, appliances you will need, how to start solids and the best way to expand your baby’s palate.

I have a 23 month old toddler, and he has loved every recipe I’ve made for him.  His favorite so far is the “Enlightenment” Eggplant and Red Bell Pepper Puree with Red Lentils.  Even though he has tried a very wide range of foods, flavors and spices, Daulter recommends some that I hadn’t thought to serve him- such as Cold Watermelon Soup and Sweet Potato Fries with Ponzu Dipping Sauce, as well as healthy “mix-ins” as she calls them, like goji and acai berries.

I urge you to get a copy of Organically Raised, whether you are pregnant, have a baby, or are past the baby food making stage.  These are recipes the whole family can enjoy (so you won’t be cooking two separate meals!). 

Perhaps the most important reason I recommend this book is because too often I rush to get my son’s food on the table. Organically Raised reminds me that the most important ingredient I put in his food is love.