Microwave Cooking for Your Baby & Child

December 1, 1990
In this comprehensive volume, nutritionist Behan simplifies the task of feeding babies and children quickly and healthfully with the microwave oven. In itself an excellent and up-to-date microwave primer, the book answers parents' nagging concerns for safety (``Does using the microwave mean I'm nuking my baby's food?'') and clarifies proper procedures. An indispensible guide for parents of babies just beginning to swallow solid foods is a food-by-food directory of how to prepare just such with the microwave. Mothers and fathers of toddlers and older children will be intrigued as well with the for-children versions of sophisticated recipes (from paella to couscous to chicken curry) and delighted with the fact that most are nutritionally balanced one-dish meals. ``Super Mom'' Behan leaves no worrisome stone unturned: included is a chart on pesticides in produce, with suggestions of whether to buy organic, wash or peel, and another chart listing foods that can cause choking. Rushed parents will appreciate the practical ideas for freezing and reheating homemade baby meals and for ensuring they are portable. And while the author endearingly admits to frequenting drive-thrus when on car journeys, she also offers tips on selecting the best of fast-food offerings. Illustrations not seen by PW.