Winter Baby Foods | BLW Tips & Recipes for Indian Parents
The winter months of the new year bring more chilly days and cozy family time! You know what time it is? This is time for yummy food that warms up your little one’s belly. As the temperature drops, it’s natural to crave comfort food, and your baby is no exception. Whether you’re exploring baby-led weaning (BLW) for the first time or looking to add variety to your baby’s diet, winter is the perfect time to do so. Winters bring a bounty of seasonal ingredients packed with vitamins, minerals, and flavor. AllThingsBaby brings you some simple yet delicious recipes and meal ideas that are sure to become your baby’s winter favorites.
Quick recap of BLW
Babyled Weaning is a technique that lets your little one explore the textures and tastes of food, while building essential self-feeding skills, and what better way to spend winter than with wholesome winter produce!
Easy-to-Prepare Winter BLW Foods
Carrot and Sweet Potato Sticks
Roast thick slices of carrot and sweet potato until they’re soft enough for little hands to hold and gums to munch. Along with being rich in beta-carotene (great for your baby’s eyesight) they are also naturally sweet, making them a hit with those little taste buds.
Spinach and Lentil Patties
Mash cooked lentils with steamed spinach and form them into small patties. Lightly pan-fry or bake them until firm enough for your baby to pick up. These are packed with iron and protein—perfect for supporting your baby’s growth during winter.
Rice and (Lentils) Dal Khichdi
A winter classic in many Indian households, khichdi is soft, flavorful, and easily digestible.
Cook rice and lentils (Dal) together, mash them slightly, and add a touch of ghee for extra flavor and nutrients. This comforting dish is ideal for babies exploring new textures.
Winter BLW Recipes to Try
Wholesome Apple and Cinnamon Porridge
A warm bowl of porridge is the quintessential winter breakfast, and this baby-friendly version adds a touch of seasonal flair.
Ingredients:
- 1 apple (peeled and grated)
- 2 tablespoons oats
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Water
Method:
- In a small saucepan, cook the oats and grated apple in water until soft and creamy.
- Sprinkle in the cinnamon, stir well, and let it cool slightly.
- Serve warm, ensuring it’s at a safe temperature for your baby.
Why it’s great?
This dish is soothing and packed with fiber, antioxidants, and natural sweetness. It’s a gentle way to introduce your baby to the warm, comforting flavors of winter.
Nourishing Beetroot and Carrot Soup
Colorful and vibrant, this soup is not only a treat for the eyes but also a powerhouse of immunity-boosting nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 small beetroot
- 1 carrot
- A pinch of cumin powder
- Water
Method:
- Steam the beetroot and carrot until tender.
- Blend the vegetables with water to create a smooth soup.
- Sprinkle a pinch of cumin powder for added flavor, and serve warm in a small cup or spoon-feed.
Why it’s great?
Beetroot is rich in folate and antioxidants, while carrot adds a dose of vitamin A. The warm soup is perfect for chilly evenings and easy for babies to enjoy.
Hacks for Winter BLW Success
Seasonal Ingredient? Let them shine: Winter vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and beetroot are packed with flavor and nutrients. Incorporate these into your baby’s meals for variety and nutrition.
Keep it Warm: Serve food slightly warm during winter to make it more comforting for your baby.
Remember! Hydration matters: Babies may drink less water in winter, so include water-rich foods like soups and porridges in their diet.
Winter is a season of cozy moments, and mealtime should be no different. With these wholesome ideas and recipes, you can ensure your baby’s winter diet is not only nutritious but also filled with flavors they’ll love. Happy weaning!
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