Banana and Ragi Porridge Recipe for Babies and Toddlers
Banana and Ragi Porridge is a nutritious, easy-to-make dish that’s ideal for babies and toddlers. Ragi, also known as finger millet, is packed with iron, calcium, and fiber, making it an excellent food choice for growing little ones. Combined with the natural sweetness of ripe banana, this porridge offers a delightful and wholesome meal for babies who are ready to start solids. The recipe is simple, quick to prepare, and can be made in just 12 minutes.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ragi Flour (Finger Millet/Nagli) | 1 tablespoon |
| Ripe Banana (preferably small variety like Yelakki) | 1 |
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Energy | 100 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Fat | 0.5g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Iron | 1mg |
Preparation Time:
| Time | 2 minutes |
Cooking Time:
| Time | 10 minutes |
Total Time:
| Time | 12 minutes |
Servings:
| Number of servings | 2 |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ragi Porridge:
- Begin by ensuring that you have homemade ragi powder ready. If you don’t have it, check out how to make ragi powder at home.
- In a small pan, add 1/4 cup water and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Once the water begins to boil, reduce the heat and gradually add the ragi flour. Stir continuously as you add the flour to avoid lumps.
- Keep stirring until the mixture thickens slightly. Ragi flour thickens quickly, so make sure to stir well to prevent clumps from forming. Once the porridge reaches a slightly thick consistency, turn off the heat and let it cool down a bit.
-
Mash the Banana:
- While the ragi porridge is cooling, peel and mash the banana using a fork on a flat plate. Make sure the banana is well-mashed, with no lumps remaining.
-
Combine the Banana and Ragi:
- Once the ragi porridge has cooled down slightly, add the mashed banana to the porridge. Mix them together until they are fully combined and smooth.
- Your Banana and Ragi Porridge is now ready to serve.
-
Serve the Porridge:
- Serve the porridge warm to your baby or toddler. This dish is suitable for babies who are over 6 months of age and are ready for solid foods.
Additional Tips:
- Consistency: If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can add a little extra water or milk to adjust the texture to suit your baby’s preference.
- Sweetness: If needed, you can add a little pinch of cardamom powder or a small amount of jaggery for extra flavor, but keep it minimal to maintain the health benefits of the natural ingredients.
- Storage: This porridge is best served fresh. However, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours and gently warm it before serving.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Your Baby or Toddler:
- Nutrient-Rich: Ragi is an excellent source of iron and calcium, which are essential for your baby’s bone development and overall growth.
- Easy to Digest: This porridge is light on the stomach, making it suitable for babies and toddlers with sensitive tummies.
- Natural Sweetness: The ripe banana provides natural sweetness, making it a healthy alternative to sugar-laden options.
- Quick and Simple: With only two ingredients and 12 minutes to prepare, this porridge is ideal for busy parents looking for a nutritious meal that’s easy to make.
Banana and Ragi Porridge is a wonderful introduction to solid foods and a perfect choice for your baby’s growing nutritional needs. Give it a try and watch your little one enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal that’s both tasty and nourishing!
