Tarragon

Tarragon may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. 

Tarragon first grew wild in Asia and has been used to season food for centuries, although today, the most commonly consumed type is a cultivated variety known as French tarragon. Prized for its aromatic and slightly licorice-like flavor, tarragon is a key ingredient in sauces like béarnaise in France or stews like chakapuli in Georgia and is often used to season meats, sauces, and vegetables. It also lends its strong, slightly sweet, herbal taste to vinegars, teas, and even soda.

• Substitute dried tarragon for fresh by using about 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe. Dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor than fresh, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

• Store fresh tarragon in the fridge in a sealed container or wrap it in a damp paper towel to preserve its flavor.

No. Both fresh and dried tarragon present a low risk when safely prepared for a child’s age and developmental ability, though, in theory, an individual could choke on any food. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve tarragon in an age-appropriate way as described in the How to Serve section. As always, create a safe eating environment and stay within reach of baby during meals.

Learn the signs of choking and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

No. Allergies to tarragon are not common. Note that certain dried herb blends that feature tarragon may contain common food allergens, so make sure to read labels thoroughly if your child has food allergies.

Yes. Tarragon offers small amounts of a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It also contains a number of plant compounds like phenolic acids and flavonoids, which may offer anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.^{[1] [2]}

Avoid tarragon as a supplement and tarragon essential oils, teas, and other non-culinary forms, as their safety and potency has not been sufficiently studied in children.^[3]

¡Ninguno! Sirve los alimentos sólidos directamente en la bandeja, plato o tazón del/a bebé y luego deja que el/la bebé explore con las manos. Si lo deseas, tenga una cuchara o un tenedor disponibles para ayudarlo/a a familiarizarse con los utensilios, pero no se espera que adquiera las habilidades para usarlos hasta que sea un poco mayor.

Termina la comida y ofrécele una toma de pecho o biberón. Nunca presiones a un/a bebé o a un/a niño/a para que coma; a largo plazo esto sólo empeorará el rechazo a los alimentos. Los bebés rechazan la comida por diferentes motivos, como la dentición, una enfermedad, demasiado cansancio, o falta de energía o interés en aprender una nueva habilidad. Para obtener más información sobre por qué el/la bebé puede negarse a comer, consulta nuestra guía Cómo responder al rechazo de los alimentos en los bebés.