Which Dal is Best for Baby?

Introducing solids is an exciting milestone in your baby’s growth journey. Among the first foods often recommended by pediatricians in India is dal, a type of lentil. But as a parent, you might wonder: which dal is best for baby?

In this article, we’ll explore the most suitable lentils for infants, their nutritional benefits, and how to prepare them safely.

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrients. They are:

• Rich in protein
• Easy to digest
• High in iron, zinc, and fiber
• Naturally soft when cooked

These qualities make dal an excellent choice for babies starting solids around 6 months of age.

Which Dal is Best for Baby?

Here are some baby-friendly dals and their benefits:

1. Moong Dal (Yellow Split Moong) – Best for Beginners

• Easily digestible and gentle on the baby’s tummy
• Low in allergens
• Rich in protein and iron

Best served as a thin moong dal soup or khichdi.

2. Masoor Dal (Red Lentils) – Nutrient-Rich and Tasty

• High in iron and folate
• Cooks quickly and becomes soft
• Mild taste babies love

Ideal after your baby has accepted moong dal.

3. Urad Dal – For Weight Gain (In Moderation)

• Rich in calcium and healthy fats
• Good for babies needing healthy weight gain
• Slightly heavier to digest, so introduce after 8 months

Use it in small quantities in dosa or idli batter.

4. Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Pea) – Fiber-Packed and Filling

• Good source of complex carbs and protein
• More fibrous, introduced after 8-9 months

Best in small amounts in khichdi with rice and ghee

How to Introduce Dal to Babies?

The steps to introduce dal to babies are given below:

• Start simple: Begin with watery moong dal soup (no salt or spices).
• Use a soft consistency: Strain or blend for younger babies.
• Introduce one dal at a time: Wait 3 days before trying a new type.
• Avoid tadka (tempering): Keep it bland at first to avoid irritants.

4 Tips for Cooking Dal for Babies

Here are the 4 easy tips for cooking dal for babies:

• Always wash dal thoroughly to remove impurities.
• Use pressure cooker or slow cook for softness.
• Add ghee once the baby is 7-8 months old for extra calories.
• No salt, sugar, or honey before 1 year.

Why Download KidsCur?

So, which dal is best for baby? The clear winner for beginners is moong dal due to its light and easy-to-digest nature. As your baby grows, you can slowly add masoor, urad, and toor dal to their diet in safe, baby-friendly forms.

By introducing a variety of dals gradually, you’re helping your baby get essential nutrients in a tasty and traditional way.

Bonus Tip: Always consult your pediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby’s diet.

KidsCur is a parenting app that provides nutritional and parenting tips for raising children. Download the app now for more information!

FAQs

Q 1. Can I give moong dal to my 6-month-old baby?

Answer: Yes, moong dal is one of the best first foods for a 6-month-old baby. It is easy to digest, rich in protein and iron, and gentle on the baby’s stomach. Serve it as a thin, watery soup without salt or spices.

Q 2. Which dal is best for baby weight gain?

Answer: Urad dal is beneficial for healthy weight gain in babies due to its high protein and healthy fat content. However, it should be introduced after 8 months in moderation, as it is heavier to digest.

Q 3. Can I mix different dals for my baby?

Answer: Yes, once your baby has tried and tolerated individual dals like moong or masoor, you can mix them to create nutrient-rich combinations. Always ensure the texture is soft and the spices are minimal or absent.