The preferences of a child’s taste buds and his or her eating habits are initially shaped when the little one is in the toddler stage, which is why exposing them to a variety of tastes or different textures can be very beneficial for their lifetime. Introducing traditional Indian breakfast items to toddlers will introduce the kids to the great taste of India’s cuisine and, at the same time, put back nutrients into their bodies for their healthy growth. By applying the explained breakfast recipes, parents could turn breakfast time into a tasty and healthy meal.
As the name implies, breakfast is widely regarded as the heaviest meal of the day and a critical meal for toddlers since they acquire energy and nutrients from it to help them conquer the day. However, one of the hardest meals that parents may find difficult to feed their toddlers is breakfast. This article has been written to ease preparation for breakfast time for parents, especially those with toddlers, by providing a list of scrumptious yet healthy meals that toddlers would enjoy.
Incorporating traditional Indian dishes into a toddler's breakfast can introduce them to a diverse range of flavours and textures while providing essential nutrients. From comforting porridges and pancakes to wholesome parathas and idlis, Indian cuisine offers a wealth of options that are both tasty and nourishing. By introducing toddlers to a variety of nutritious foods early on, parents can help establish healthy eating habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Comforting Porridges And Cereals
1. Oats Porridge
Oats porridge is a wholesome and comforting breakfast option for toddlers. It can be made by cooking rolled oats with milk or water and sweetening it with a touch of honey or fruit puree. Adding mashed bananas or grated apples to the porridge can further enhance its flavour and nutritional value.
2. Ragi Porridge
Ragi, also known as finger millet, is a nutritious whole grain that is rich in calcium, iron, and fibre. Ragi porridge is a traditional South Indian breakfast dish that is easy to digest and ideal for toddlers. It can be made by cooking ragi flour with water or milk and sweetening it with jaggery or date syrup.
Wholesome Parathas And Pancakes
1. Banana Pancake
Banana pancakes are a delicious and nutritious breakfast option for toddlers. They can be made by mashing ripe bananas and mixing them with whole wheat flour, milk, and a pinch of baking powder. These pancakes are soft, fluffy, and naturally sweet, making them a hit with little ones.
2. Vegetable Parathas
Vegetable parathas are a great way to sneak extra nutrients into your toddler's breakfast. They can be made by stuffing whole wheat dough with a mixture of finely chopped vegetables such as spinach, carrots, and peas. These parathas are wholesome, flavourful, and perfect for little hands to hold and munch on.
Classic Indian Breakfast Dishes
1. Idli
Idli is a traditional South Indian breakfast dish made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It is soft, fluffy, and easy to digest, making it an ideal breakfast option for toddlers. Idlis can be served with coconut chutney or sambar for added flavour and nutrition.
2. Poha
Poha, also known as flattened rice, is a popular breakfast dish in India that is quick and easy to prepare. It can be made by tempering flattened rice with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and spices and then adding vegetables like peas, carrots, and potatoes. Poha is light, nutritious, and full of flavour, making it a favourite among toddlers and adults alike.
Creative Snacks And Finger Foods
1. Cheese Paratha Fingers
Cheese paratha fingers are a fun and nutritious snack option for toddlers. They can be made by rolling out whole wheat dough and stuffing it with grated cheese. The parathas are then cut into finger-sized strips and baked until golden and crispy. These cheesy fingers are perfect for little ones to hold and nibble on.
2. Fruit And Nut Smoothies
Fruit and nut smoothies are a refreshing and nutritious breakfast option for toddlers. They can be made by blending ripe fruits like bananas, berries, and mangoes with milk or yoghurt and a handful of nuts like almonds or cashews. These smoothies are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a great way to start the day on a healthy note.
From comforting porridges and wholesome parathas to classic Indian dishes and creative snacks, there are plenty of options to suit every toddler's taste preferences.