#asktheexpert
Hello,
my child is hesitant to eat or try different types of food, just sticking to plain Dal Rice.

Any remedies/suggestions to improve the same?

Question

#asktheexpert 
Hello,
my child is hesitant to eat or try different types of food, just sticking to plain Dal Rice.

Any remedies/suggestions to improve the same?

Accepted Answer

Introducing a variety of Indian foods to a 4-year-old can be an enjoyable and gradual process. Here are some tips to encourage your child to taste different Indian dishes:

1. **Start Gradually:**
   - Begin with milder and more familiar flavors. Start with foods that are less spicy and have a taste profile similar to what your child is accustomed to.

2. **Involve Them in Cooking:**
   - Include your child in the cooking process. Let them help with simple tasks like stirring, mixing, or washing vegetables. Involvement in the kitchen can pique their interest in trying the food.

3. **Use Familiar Ingredients:**
   - Introduce new dishes that contain familiar ingredients. For example, if your child enjoys chicken, try dishes like Chicken Tikka or Butter Chicken.

4. **Make it Fun:**
   - Turn mealtime into a fun and positive experience. Use colorful plates, arrange food in interesting shapes, or create a theme night for different cuisines.

5. **Set a Good Example:**
   - Children often mimic the eating habits of adults. Show enthusiasm for trying new foods yourself, and let them see your enjoyment of a variety of dishes.

6. **Create a Tasting Game:**
   - Turn tasting into a game. Create a chart or a scoring system for different dishes. Allow your child to "rate" or "score" each food they try.

7. **Explore Street Food:**
   - Introduce your child to Indian street food, which often includes flavorful and bite-sized options. Items like chaat or pani puri can be exciting for children.

8. **Storytelling:**
   - Share stories or fun facts about the origin of certain dishes. This can make the experience more educational and engaging for your child.

9. **Respect Preferences:**
   - Respect your child's taste preferences and don't force them to eat. Encourage exploration without pressure, and allow them to express their likes and dislikes.

10. **Be Patient:**
    - It may take time for a child to develop a taste for new flavors. Be patient and continue offering a variety of foods consistently.

11. **Make Homemade Versions:**
    - Try making homemade versions of popular snacks or dishes. This allows you to control ingredients and adjust flavors according to your child's preferences.

12. **Celebrate Festivals with Special Foods:**
    - Celebrate Indian festivals with special foods and treats. Associating positive experiences with traditional dishes can make them more appealing.

Remember that every child is unique, and it's natural for them to have individual preferences. The goal is to make the experience enjoyable and positive, fostering a curiosity about different foods. If your child is consistently hesitant about trying new foods or has specific concerns, consulting with a pediatrician or a nutritionist can provide additional guidance.

#asktheexpert Hello, my child is hesitant to eat or try different types of food, just sticking to plain Dal Rice. Any remedies/suggestions to improve the same?