Introducing solids to your little one is such an exciting time! It’s that phase when you see your baby’s taste buds evolving, and you want to provide them with the best nutrition. Instead of store-bought options, why not try making homemade Cerelac? It’s fresh, preservative-free, and packed with wholesome goodness! Today, I’m sharing two super simple yet nutritious homemade Cerelac recipes that you can easily whip up.
Plus, I’ve got a video on my YouTube channel that walks you through these recipes step by step – check it out here!
Recipe 1: Power-Packed Grain and Nut Cerelac
This recipe is a mix of grains, dals, and dry fruits that offer a rich source of nutrients perfect for growing babies.
Ingredients:
- Grains:
- 1 Cup Rice (a great source of carbohydrates for energy)
- 1/4th Cup Moong Dal (packed with proteins and easy to digest)
- 1/4th Cup Masoor Dal (rich in iron and protein)
- Dry Fruits:
- 1 Cup Makhana (Phool Makhana, also known as fox nuts, is rich in calcium and antioxidants)
- 15 Almonds (loaded with healthy fats and essential vitamins)
- 10 Cashews (great for healthy fats and minerals like magnesium)
Preparation:
- Washing: Wash all the grains (rice and dals) thoroughly about 3 times until the water runs clear.
- Soaking and Drying: Let them soak, and after that, dry them overnight on a clean cloth.
- Roasting: The next day, dry roast all the grains on a low flame until they turn a light brown. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the ingredients easier to grind.
- Dry roast all the dry fruits
- Grinding: Once roasted and cooled, grind everything into a fine powder. You can store this powder in an airtight jar for up to 1-2 months in the fridge!
Cooking Instructions:
- Add 1 cup of water to 2 spoons of the powder and cook on medium heat.
- Stir continuously to avoid lumps and cook until it thickens into a porridge-like consistency (about 10 minutes).
- Adjust the consistency to your baby’s preference – not too thick or too runny.
Sweeten It Naturally:
Add a spoonful of date paste (1-2 dates), coconut sugar, or even fruit purees like banana, pear, or apple for a naturally sweet flavor.
Recipe 2: Rice and Lentil Delight with a Nutty Twist
Here’s another homemade Cerelac recipe that combines rice, moong dal, and roasted gram for a delightful and nutritious meal.
- 1 Cup Rice (a gentle grain that's easy on little tummies and provides energy)
- 1/4 Cup Moong Dal (a protein powerhouse)
- 2 Tablespoons Roasted Gram (Chana Dal) (adds fiber and protein)
- 5-6 Almonds (optional, but adds healthy fats and essential nutrients)
- 2 Cardamom Pods (optional, for flavor)
- Washing and Drying: Wash the rice and moong dal thoroughly, then dry them completely.
- Roasting:
- Dry roast the rice until it's golden and gives off a nice aroma.
- Similarly, roast the moong dal and roasted gram until golden.
- Roast the almonds lightly as well.
- Grinding: Once all ingredients are cool, add cardamom pods and blend them into a fine powder. Store this in an airtight container for up to a month.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the powder with 1 cup of water, and cook on medium heat, stirring continuously.
- Cook until it thickens to a porridge consistency (about 10 minutes), and let it cool before serving.
As with the first recipe, you can sweeten this with natural options like date paste, jaggery, or fruit purees.
💡 Nutritional Benefits:
- Rice: Provides easily digestible energy, making it perfect for babies.
- Moong Dal: Rich in proteins and essential nutrients.
- Roasted Gram (Chana Dal): A good source of fiber and protein for a balanced diet.
- Almonds: Add healthy fats and vitamins that are essential for growth.
💡 Pro Tips:
- Make sure the porridge cools to a lukewarm temperature before feeding your baby.
- Since this recipe contains nuts, it's advisable to introduce them separately first to ensure your baby doesn't have any allergic reactions.
Note: Always consult your pediatrician before introducing any new food to your baby’s diet. This homemade Cerelac is suitable for babies 6 months and older, as a complementary food.
Why Homemade Cerelac?- No Preservatives: You know exactly what goes into it!
- Nutrient-Rich: Homemade recipes like these offer a variety of essential nutrients – proteins, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
- Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients based on your baby's preferences or dietary needs.
Enjoy the joy of seeing your baby eat homemade goodness! Don’t forget to check out my YouTube video on Homemade Cerelac Recipes here for more tips and tricks on making these delicious meals.
Precautions:
- Always ensure the texture of the porridge is suitable for your baby’s age.
- Be mindful of allergens like nuts and ensure they’re introduced properly before incorporating them into your baby’s diet.
- And, as always, consult with your pediatrician before making any changes to your baby’s diet.
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