Moong Dal Khichdi Recipe for Healthy Beginnings

Moong dal khichdi was one of the first foods I started giving my kid, Devansh when I introduced solids in his diet. Moong dal is easy to digest as compared to other lentils. Also this dal is a good source of protein and dietary fiber.

I roast rice and dal before making the khichdi as they become easy to digest that way. I also make a little extra of this roasted rice and dal mixture and store it for future use. This healthy and tasty khichdi is suitable for six month and older babies.

Moong Daal Khichdi Served in a Plate
Khichdi Made With Moong Dal and Rice

Why Moong Dal?

Digestibility:

Moong dal is renowned for its easy digestibility, making it an ideal choice for your baby’s sensitive tummy during the early stages of solid food introduction.

Protein:

It’s crucial to provide your baby with an adequate source of protein as they grow. Moong dal offers a healthy dose of plant-based protein, supporting their overall development.

Dietary Fiber:

Fiber is essential for healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. This khichdi contains dietary fiber that aids in maintaining your baby’s digestive health.

Moong Dal Khichdi Served  in a Plate
Moong Dal Khichdi

Nutritional Benefits of Moong Dal Khichdi for Babies:

Moong dal khichdi is not just a tasty and easy-to-digest meal for your baby; it also comes with a range of nutritional benefits that are essential during their early development:

Protein Powerhouse:

Moong dal is a fantastic source of plant-based protein. This nutrient is crucial for your baby’s growth, helping build strong muscles and tissues.

Fiber for Digestive Health:

The dietary fiber in moong dal khichdi supports healthy digestion and regulates bowel movements in your little one. This can be particularly helpful as your baby’s digestive system adapts to solid foods.

Rich in Essential Nutrients:

Moong dal is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients are vital for your baby’s overall well-being and development.

Low Allergenicity:

Compared to other legumes, moong dal is less likely to cause allergies in babies. This makes it a safe choice for introducing your baby to new foods.

Energy Boost:

The carbohydrates in moong dal provide a steady source of energy for your baby, helping them stay active and alert throughout the day.

Tips for Introducing Moong Dal Khichdi:

Start Gradually:

When introducing moong dal khichdi, start with small portions to ensure your baby’s tummy can tolerate it. Gradually increase the serving size as they get used to the new food.

Variety with Vegetables:

You can make this khichdi more nutritious by adding finely chopped or pureed vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach. These additions introduce a range of vitamins and minerals to your baby’s diet.

Texture Matters:

Depending on your baby’s age and readiness, adjust the texture of the khichdi. For younger babies, blend or mash it to a smoother consistency. As they grow, you can leave it slightly chunkier to encourage chewing.

Spices and Seasonings:

While khichdi is mild and gentle on your baby’s palate, you can introduce mild spices like cumin or a pinch of turmeric for added flavor as they grow older.

Stay Hydrated:

Ensure your baby stays well-hydrated alongside solid foods. Continue to breastfeed or provide formula milk as their primary source of nutrition.

Also See:

Baby Food Recipes by MumMumTime | Toddler Food Recipes by MumMumTime | Kid-Friendly Food Recipes by MumMumTime | MumMumTime on YouTube

Moong Dal Khichdi

Moong Dal Khichdi for Babies, Toddlers, Kids

Print Recipe
Moong Dal Khichdi Recipe, one of the first foods that can be given to a baby when introducing solids—ideal for babies, toddlers, kids.
Course Main Dish
Servings 1 person
Author Mukta Tikekar

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp yellow moong dal / split yellow gram
  • 2 tbsp rice
  • 1 pinch of hing / asafoetida
  • 1 pinch of haldi / turmeric powder
  • salt to taste

Instructions

  • Wash rice and moong dal separately and then allow them to dry. I usually make this mixture of rice and moong dal to last me for a week. So I take about a cupful of each for roasting.
  • Roast them in a pan separately for 5-10 minutes while stirring them continuously. This time will depend on the quantity of the mixture. 5-10 minutes is enough for 2 tbsp of rice and dal each. You will need to roast dal for a bit longer than rice.
  • If your baby has just been introduced to solids, you can grind the roasted mixture coarsely in a blender.
  • You need about 4 tbsp of the roasted mixture for one serving of khichdi.
  • You can store the remaining mixture in an airtight container for future use.
  • Add hing, haldi, and salt to 4 tbsp of roasted mixture. (Note: It is recommended to avoid adding salt in babies’ food till they turn one.)
  • However, in my case I found that Devansh just wouldn’t eat his food without salt. Hence, I started adding little bit of salt in his food. You can decide whether you want to add salt or not after talking to your child’s pediatrician.)
  • Add 1 and a half cup of water.
  • Cook the mixture in a pressure cooker on medium flame for about 15-20 minutes (7-8 whistles).
  • Mash the khichdi finely or coarsely depending on your baby’s age.
  • Add some homemade ghee to the khichdi before serving it to your baby.
  • If you have introduced dairy products in your baby’s diet, you can feed your baby some curd with this khichdi.

Notes

For older kids you can try the following less bland variation:
  • Roast the rice and moong dal as mentioned above.
  • Add salt and water to the roasted mixture and cook it in a pressure cooker on medium flame for about 15 minutes (6-7 whistles).
  • Meanwhile heat a pan and add 1 tsp ghee.
  • Add 1/2 tsp cumin seeds, and when the seeds splutter add hing and turmeric powder.
  • Add 2-3 tbsp of cooked mashed vegetables, stir properly, and then turn off heat.
  • Add the tempered mashed vegetables to the cooked khichdi and mix well.
  • Add some homemade ghee on top of the khichdi and serve it with curds.

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