#asktheexpert pls suggest a tasty and healthy food for 11 month old baby😔 cause she is not eating anything

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Accepted Answer

For an 11-month-old baby, it's essential to introduce a variety of nutritious foods that are easy to digest and suitable for their developing taste buds. Here are some Indian food options that are typically well-suited for babies:

1. **Khichdi:** A simple and nutritious dish made from rice and lentils cooked together. It's easily digestible and can be flavored with mild spices like cumin and turmeric.

2. **Vegetable Purees:** Steam or boil soft vegetables such as carrots, peas, squash, sweet potato, or spinach, and puree them into a smooth consistency. You can also add a dash of ghee (clarified butter) for added flavor and nutrients.

3. **Fruit Purees:** Puree ripe fruits like banana, apple, pear, or mango to provide natural sweetness and essential vitamins.

4. **Dalia (Broken Wheat Porridge):** Cook broken wheat with milk or water until soft and creamy. You can sweeten it with a bit of jaggery (unrefined cane sugar) or mashed banana.

5. **Ragi (Finger Millet) Porridge:** Ragi is rich in calcium and iron. Cook ragi flour with water or milk until thickened to make a nutritious porridge.

6. **Idli:** Soft and fluffy idlis made from fermented rice and lentil batter are a great finger food option for babies. Serve with a mild chutney or sambar for added flavor.

7. **Oats:** Cook rolled oats with milk or water and add mashed fruits like banana or apple for sweetness. Oats are rich in fiber and nutrients.

8. **Mashed Rice and Dal:** Cook rice and lentils separately, then mash them together with a bit of ghee for added flavor and healthy fats.

9. **Soft Chapati:** Tear a small piece of soft chapati or roti into small bites for your baby to grasp and chew. Ensure it's free from spices and too much oil.

10. **Yogurt:** Plain yogurt is a good source of protein and probiotics. Offer it as is or mix it with mashed fruits for added flavor.

Always ensure that the food is cooked thoroughly, mashed or pureed to a suitable consistency, and served at a safe temperature to prevent choking hazards. Introduce new foods gradually and watch for any signs of allergies or intolerances. Consulting with a pediatrician or nutritionist can provide personalized guidance based on your baby's specific needs and preferences.