Panjapullu kurukku | Introduce solids to your baby with this iron-rich millet porridge recipe

Are you thinking about introducing solid food to your baby? Confused about which food to try first? Let us help you out with a nutrient-rich, hassle-free recipe for your little angel.

Ragi porridge is a nutritious and wholesome option for introducing solid foods to babies. Ragi, also known as finger millet, is rich in calcium, iron, fibre, and other essential nutrients.

Important things to notice

Age: You can start solids once your baby hits the six-month mark. Paediatricians and experts recommend feeding exclusively breastmilk or formula to babies during the first six months. Once the baby hits all the milestones listed for their age group (like rolling over, lifting their head while lying on their tummy, babbling, smiling, following objects with their eye etc).

Allergies: Always consult with your paediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby, especially if there are concerns about allergies or any pre-existing health conditions. Tummy aches and gas issues are common when you start solids. Baby's poop also might harden, which would give them trouble while passing it. Observe your baby's cues to spot any discomfort. Approach a doctor if the issues persist.

Amount: The key to successfully starting solids is to ease your baby into it. It's important to start with a small quantity and observe how your baby reacts to the new food.

Position: Make sure that the baby is put in a semi-upright or upright position, sitting up with or without support. Avoid feeding them when they are in a lying position, which poses a choking risk.

Ragi is a rich source of essential nutrients, including calcium, iron, fibre, and amino acids. These nutrients are crucial for the overall growth and development of babies. Iron is important for preventing anaemia and supporting healthy blood development. Ragi is a good source of iron, making it beneficial for babies, especially those transitioning to solid foods. It is high in dietary fibre, which promotes healthy digestion and helps prevent constipation in babies.

Here's a simple recipe for preparing ragi porridge for babies.

Ingredients
½ cup finger millet/ragi, soaked overnight
2-3 crystals of palm sugar
1 cup water
Preparation
Soak the millet overnight or for 8 hours
Grind ½ cup soaked millet along with 1 cup of water
Strain this using a sieve cloth to get the ragi milk
Add the palm sugar crystals to it
Heat up the ragi milk on low flame while stirring continuously
Bring it to a boil
You will have to keep on stirring without break to avoid lumps
Once the milk thickens, turn of the stove
You will have to continue stirring until the porridge cools down
Feed it lukewarm to your baby along with occasional spoons of water