Dal Methi Recipe
In this Article
Lentils are loaded with nutrition and are a staple in many parts of India. Dal, as we call in India, is a rich source of protein and amino acids and is also rich in fiber and low in fat all of which are essential for the growth and development of your little one. Red lentils are smoother and hence cooks faster and are easily digestible for your munchkin. If you have introduced toor dal for your baby then red lentils can be replaced with toor dal in this delicious recipe. Generally, dal methi is served over steam cooked rice but can also be enjoyed as a soup. Apart from being tasty, the Dal methi for babies is a traditional food and simple to make. Find below one of the interesting ways to introduce dal in your baby’s diet.
Cooking time
| Type | Time (hh:mm:ss) |
| Preparation Time | 00:10:00 |
| Cook Time | 00:10:00 |
| Total Time | 00:20:00 |
Cooking Method
Gas Stove
Type of Meal
Vegetarian
Suitable For
Any Toddlers above 14 months of Age
Meal Schedule
mid-morning, lunch
Recipe Type
Main Dish
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity and Volume |
| Red lentils | 1/4 cup |
| Fenugreek leaves (tightly packed bunch) | 1/4 bunch |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Asafoetida/Hing | A pinch |
| Ghee/Cooking Oil | 2 tsp |
| Onion | 1 |
| Tomato | 1 |
| Garlic | 2-3 pods |
Instruction
If you are wondering about how to make Dal Methi? Then read on to know the step by step instructions to make this super quick recipe.
- Wash and soak the red lentils in a bowl of water
- Now, finely chop the onion, tomato, and the garlic pods and keep aside.
- Rinse the fenugreek leaves twice and drain the water.
- Add the red lentils, turmeric powder and 2 cups of water in a pressure cooker and cook for 3 whistles.
- Heat a pan and add ghee/oil, now add the chopped garlic and a pinch of asafoetida and let it leave its aroma.
- Now add the chopped onions and saute until the onions are translucent in color then add in the tomatoes and cook till the tomatoes are soft.
- Its time to add in the fenugreek leaves and cook till you see the oil leaving the sides of the pan.
- Once the pressure releases naturally, add the dal along with the broth and cook.
- Lentils can be thickened to serve over steamed rice or can be thin to suite a soup consistency.
- Add salt and check for seasoning and add more water according to the required consistency.
Recipe Tips
Now that you know how to make dal methi, remember to follow the pointers before you proceed with the nutritious dal methi recipe for your babies for a healthier tomorrow:
- Always wash the lentils before you soak them.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before cooking and make sure the utensils you use to cook are clean to make it safe and healthy.
- Cook the red lentils to a consistency where it can be mashed easily for making it easily digestible and avoid choking for your baby.
- Do not use tap water for cooking instead use mineral water.
Nutrition information (Per 100 Grams)
| Nutrient | Value |
| Calories | 80 kCal |
| Proteins | 3.6 g |
| Fats | 0.4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 2 mg |
| Sodium | 129 mg |
| Potassium | 5 mg |
Health Benefits
Find below the health benefits of homemade dal methi baby food recipe and let your little one indulge in a bowl of hearty soup:
- Red lentils are rich in fiber which aids in a clear digestive system thereby avoiding problems of constipation.
- Cooked lentils contain a fair amount of calcium which is essential for your baby’s bone growth and development.
- Lentils are loaded with folate that is vital for building new cells and helps balance the functioning of the central nervous system.
- The presence of polyphenols in lentils helps babies in overall development and growth.
- Fenugreek leaves are a great as it boosts digestion in babies.
- Regular intake of fenugreek leaves reduces the risk of juvenile diabetes in babies.
- The presence of zinc in lentils helps in building better immunity which is essential for the growth of babies.
Buying Guide
- Always check for the expiry date of the lentils pack before buying.
- Choose organic products as much as possible.
- Select ripe and red tomatoes that are not foul-smelling.
- Choose a bunch of fresh fenugreek leaves that are bright green.
- Do not buy fenugreek leaves that have yellowed or has any sort of pests in it.
- Try to buy vegetables like onion, tomato, green leaves and garlic from local vendors who sell organic produce. So, that you are sure about where to buy the next time.
Our babies are a precious part of life and hence it is recommended to make a wholesome bowl of simple Dal Methi recipe than depending on store-bought formula food. This versatile recipe can be served with rice and soft Rotis for babies above 1 year.
