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Dal Water

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Food safety: Always introduce one new food at a time and wait 3-5 days before introducing another. Watch for signs of allergic reaction. No salt, sugar, or honey under 1 year. Consult your pediatrician before introducing allergens.

RECIPE6+ Months🕐 3 min read

Dal Water

 

A close-up shot of various spices and powders in a decorative glass bowl.

A gentle, golden introduction to protein that mirrors the comforting warmth of your home’s daily yellow dal.

Total Time20 min
Prep Time5 min
Servings1
DifficultyEasy

Allergen Information

✓ Milk
✓ Eggs
✓ Peanuts
✓ Tree nuts
✓ Fish
✓ Shellfish
✓ Soy
✓ Wheat
✓ Sesame

* Always check individual ingredient labels as manufacturing practices vary. Consult your paediatrician before introducing new allergens.

Method

  1. 1 Rinse the moong dal under running water, rubbing the grains between your fingers until the cloudiness disappears.
  2. 2 Place the washed dal in a small pressure cooker or heavy-bottomed steel pan with one cup of fresh water.
  3. 3 Add a tiny pinch of turmeric, which will turn the water a soft, sun-kissed yellow as it boils.
  4. 4 Cook for 3-4 whistles until the dal is so soft it mashes instantly when touched with a spoon.
  5. 5 Once the pressure releases naturally, stir the mixture vigorously to release the nutrients into the liquid.
  6. 6 Strain the mixture through a fine sterile sieve, collecting only the thin, silky liquid in a clean steel bowl.
  7. 7 Add a drop of ghee while it is warm, stirring until it melts into a shimmering golden circle.
  8. 8 Let it cool to room temperature; it should feel barely warm when tested on the inside of your wrist.
Flat lay of aromatic spices in bowls on a textured mat.

Nutrition Per Serving

Energy 42 kcal
Protein 2.1 g
Carbohydrates 7.4 g
Fibre 0.8 g
Fat 0.5 g

* Nutritional values are estimates per serving and may vary based on exact ingredients used and preparation methods. Always consult with a paediatric nutritionist for specific dietary concerns.

Macronutrients Breakdown

⚡ Energy: 42 kcal
Protein 20%
Carbs 70%
Fat 10%
Fibre 0%

Key Micronutrients

  • Iron0.4 mg
  • Calcium8 mg
  • Vitamin C0.2 mg
  • Folate18 mcg
  • Iodine– mcg
  • Zinc0.3 mg

Tips for Parents

Easy Digestion

Yellow moong dal is the lightest lentil for a developing tummy.

Immunity Boost

Turmeric provides a gentle antiseptic shield for your growing little one.

Starter Food

The perfect bridge between liquid milk and semi-solid mashed foods.

Iron Source

Helps meet the rising iron needs of babies after six months.

Parent tip: If your baby makes a face at the first sip, don’t worry—it’s just a new texture, not a rejection of your cooking. Try offering just 2-3 teaspoons alongside their regular milk feed to help them get used to the earthy taste.
Storage: Always serve dal water fresh within 30 minutes of preparation to ensure maximum nutrient density. Do not store leftovers in the fridge or reheat, as the thin consistency can change and lose its freshness quickly.

Indian Variations

  • North Indian: Add a tiny pinch of roasted cumin (jeera) powder to aid digestion.
  • South Indian: Infuse the water with a single washed curry leaf while boiling for aroma.
  • Gujarati style: Use slightly more water for a thinner ‘Oman’ consistency that is very easy to swallow.
Close-up of a vibrant haldi ceremony in an Indian wedding, showcasing turmeric ritual.
IAP Note: In accordance with IAP guidelines, dal water is introduced only after 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding as a supplementary liquid.
⚕ Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your paediatrician for medical concerns.

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