Middle Eastern Lentil and Vegetable Baby Stew

When it comes to nourishing little ones, parents are always looking for meals that are both wholesome and easy to digest. This Middle Eastern-inspired baby stew is exactly that — gentle, comforting, and packed with goodness.

Made with soft red lentils, tender vegetables, and mild spices, this dish introduces your baby or toddler to new flavors in a safe and enjoyable way. It’s a perfect balance of nutrition and comfort in one tiny bowl.

Whether you’re preparing baby’s first lentil dish or looking for a simple family-friendly meal, this recipe is a delicious place to start.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 small zucchini, diced
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• Pinch of mild turmeric
• Pinch of salt (optional, very minimal for toddlers)

Instructions

1. Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a small pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add carrot and zucchini, and cook for another 3 minutes while stirring.
4. Add the lentils, water, cumin, turmeric, and a tiny pinch of salt if desired. Stir well.
5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes until lentils and vegetables are very soft.
6. Mash lightly with a fork or use a hand blender to create a toddler-friendly consistency. Serve warm.

Tips & Substitutions

• Make it smoother: For younger babies, blend the stew into a silky purée using a hand blender.
• Boost nutrition: Add a small handful of spinach or peas in the last few minutes of cooking for extra vitamins.
• Family-friendly: Skip the salt entirely and serve for the whole family with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Nutrition (per serving)

Approximate values:

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 14g
• Protein: 18g

Related Recipe

See the original recipe: "Middle Eastern Lentil and Vegetable Baby Stew"

This gentle stew is not only nourishing but also a beautiful way to introduce your little one to the flavors of the Middle East. Give it a try, share it with your family, and watch your baby enjoy every spoonful!