Apricot Puree for Babies

I used to make this when the boys were babies, and wanted to post it before I forget all about it. It's a somewhat time-consuming recipe and requires a decent amount of dishwashing because of the food mill and food processor, but it makes a large batch and is worth the effort. For older babies ready for more texture, you can skip the last skip (with the food processor). You can also make this recipe with prunes. I tried to use organic, unsulfured fruit, which I found at Whole Foods and sometimes at Trader Joe's.

Apricot Puree for Babies

1 pound dried apricots (preferably organic and unsulfured)
6 cups water

1. Combine apricots and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for one hour or until apricots are falling apart (you may need to add more water, depending on how much is absorbed). Remove from heat and let stand 20 minutes.

2. Transfer the apricots and boiling liquid to a food mill resting on top of a large bowl. Process the apricots through the food mill and let cool to room temperature.

3. Transfer the apricot puree to a food processor fitted with a blade and pulse five times. Scrape down the sides and process until the puree is smooth. Freeze in ice cube trays for convenience (don't forget to date and label!).