Indian spices are entirely natural, promote good health, and add masses of flavor to even the most simple of dishes. With nutritionists recommending a reduction in the amount of salt and sugar children consume, the use of spices can help create meals that are anything but bland… and add variety to even the most simple ingredients.
This traditional rice dish is known as Pilaf or Pulao, cooked with either fresh vegetables, meat or both in one pot, suitable for toddlers from 10 months onwards.
- SuperFoods included: olive oil, onion, tomato, ginger, garlic, lemon, yogurt, cauliflower, peas
- SuperSpices included: cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, cumin
Total preparation and cooking time: 25mins
Makes 5-6 servings
Chicken Pilaf with Vegetables for Baby Heat the oil in a pot and add the onion, cardamom, clove, and cinnamon. Stir-fry on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, until the onion crisps up and turns brown. Turn to low heat and add the tomato, black pepper, cumin seeds, ginger, garlic, lemon juice and yogurt gradually a little at a time, stirring in between to avoid curdling. Stir-fry for 2-3mins. Add the chicken, stir and cook (covered) on low heat for 5mins. Add the rice, cauliflower and peas to the pot, pour in the water, stir and bring to the boil. Simmer (covered) on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the rice is tender and all the water has been absorbed. The rice should look a little moist when it’s done. Stir and set aside (covered) for 5-10 minutes. IMPORTANT: Remove the cardamom pod, clove, and cinnamon stick before serving to baby.
Recipe contributed by Zainab Jagot Ahmed, author of Indian SuperMeals: Baby & Toddler Cookbook. Available at Booksamillion and Amazon