#asktheexpert best eveng snack for babies.

Question

#asktheexpert  best eveng snack for babies.

Accepted Answer

For a 16-month-old baby, it's important to offer nutritious and age-appropriate snacks that are easy to eat and digest. Here are some healthy Indian evening snack options:

1. **Vegetable Cutlets:** Homemade vegetable cutlets made with mashed potatoes, carrots, peas, and beans, seasoned with mild spices like cumin and coriander. Shallow fry them in a little oil until golden brown.

2. **Paneer (Cottage Cheese) Cubes:** Soft paneer cubes marinated in a mild spice mix and lightly pan-fried or baked until golden. Paneer is a good source of protein and calcium.

3. **Moong Dal (Lentil) Chilla:** Prepare a batter using soaked and ground moong dal, mixed with finely chopped vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and onions. Cook thin pancakes (chillas) on a non-stick pan until crisp and golden.

4. **Idli or Dosa:** Soft and fluffy idlis or dosas made from fermented rice and lentil batter. Serve them with a mild coconut chutney or sambar for added flavor.

5. **Cheese Sandwich:** Make a simple cheese sandwich using whole wheat bread and thinly sliced cheese. Cut into small, bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

6. **Fruit Chaat:** Prepare a fruit chaat using a variety of diced fruits like banana, apple, grapes, and pomegranate seeds. Sprinkle a pinch of chaat masala and lemon juice for extra flavor.

7. **Vegetable Upma:** Cook semolina (suji) with finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans, seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. Upma is a nutritious and filling snack option.

8. **Makhana (Foxnuts) Roast:** Dry roast makhana in a pan until crispy and lightly golden. They make a crunchy and healthy snack that's easy for little ones to hold and eat.

Remember to supervise your baby while they're eating and ensure that all snacks are cut into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking. Offer water or diluted fruit juice alongside snacks to keep them hydrated. Additionally, consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice and recommendations based on your baby's individual needs and preferences.