NUTRITION

Veggie Soup for babies / First solid food / 6-18 months /lunch or dinner recipe

After 6 months, the first solids I introduced to my baby was pureed bland vegetables first (Sweet potato, carrots, avocado etc.) and then moved to fruits (Bananas, steamed apples & pears, steamed Kerala banana).

Some moms introduce solids from 4 months onwards, you can choose to do so after checking with your baby’s pediatrician. After a couple of weeks we moved to grains. And then this soup, which has been an everyday favourite till date (he is now 16 months old).

The best way to get your baby to eat his/her 5 veggies a day. This is an excellent nutrition packed soup for babies that is also delicious. The flavor loaded in this soup makes it interesting for them to eat it quickly. Contains a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, protein, vitamin & minerals.

Note: TINY amounts of Black pepper, cumin, turmeric, asaefotida etc. are safe spices to introduce to babies.

Rice: Brown rice is one of the healthiest and most-studied rice types. Brown rice cereal is the perfect first food for the baby due to its dense natural nutrition and fiber. White rice cereal is a gluten-free, and an allergy-free option, that most babies find easy to digest.

Dal: Commonly used are red lentils , orange lentils, and yellow lentils. Some of them cook faster while a few take longer to soften. Red lentils are smoother and can cook faster than others. They are suitable for purees and soups for your baby. Moong, Toovar & Masoor dals are the best options for infants.

Capsicum: Peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, and make a colourful addition to any meal.

Carrot: Beta carotene-rich carrots are a nutritious addition to baby’s diet. Green peas for baby:

Green peas are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Peas have found to be rich in vitamin A, B1, B6, K, and vitamin C. Peas are also rich in minerals such as magnesium, potassium, iron, and phosphorus. Also rich in fibre, proteins, carbohydrates, niacin, and folates; peas is a recommended dietary option for babies.

Tomato: Rich in Vitamin C. Lycopene, and antioxidants.

Garlic and turmeric are said to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Hing is also helpful for digestion and flavour.

Cheese: Cheese is very good for baby and provides calcium, “good” fats and protein too.

Information credits: (Momjunction.com)