Red Lentil Soup

Red Lentil Soup for Baby: A Nutritious and Gentle First Food for 6 months baby & up

Red lentil soup is a perfect first food for babies 6 months and up, offering a smooth texture, mild flavor, and a powerhouse of nutrients. Packed with plant-based protein, iron, and fiber, this soup supports your baby’s growth and development while being gentle on their tiny tummies. It’s also naturally easy to digest and simple to make, making it an excellent choice for busy parents looking for a nutrient-dense meal for their little one.

This red lentil soup is one of my most popular recipes for 6+ months and for good reason! So many moms have had a lot of success with this recipe, its flavorful with simple, healthy ingredients. Lentils are one of the best legumes you can add to baby’s diet, especially when starting solids. They are easier to digest than other legumes, they are cost friendly and very easy to prepare. This was also the first meal I introduced garlic to Zion, I added 1 clove to start off and gradually started to incorporate it in some of his other foods.

Nutritional Benefits of Red Lentils for Babies:

1. Protein:

• Red lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, essential for growth and development.
• Protein helps build and repair tissues, which is crucial during the rapid growth phases in babies.

2. Iron:

• Red lentils are rich in iron, which is important for the production of hemoglobin and the prevention of anemia.
• Iron is crucial for cognitive development and overall health.

3. Fiber:

• High in dietary fiber, red lentils aid in digestion and help maintain regular bowel movements.
• Fiber also supports a healthy gut microbiome.

4. Vitamins and Minerals:

• Folate: Important for brain development and the formation of red blood cells.
• Potassium: Helps in maintaining proper heart function and muscle contractions.
• Magnesium: Supports bone health and the functioning of the nervous system.
• Zinc: Essential for immune function and cell growth.

5. Low in Fat:

• Red lentils are naturally low in fat, making them a healthy choice for babies.

6. Antioxidants:

• Contain polyphenols and other antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

7. Energy:

• Provide a good source of carbohydrates, offering sustained energy for active little ones.

A Comforting & Nourishing Meal for Your Little One

This baby-friendly red lentil soup is a warm, comforting, and nutrient-dense meal that introduces plant-based protein and iron in a gentle way. Whether spoon-fed or self-fed, it’s a great addition to your baby’s diet, helping them build strong bodies while enjoying a delicious, homemade meal. You have the option of leaving the soup as is or blending into a creamy puree.

What you need:

Large Pot

Hand Blender 

If you enjoyed this recipe, here are some more dinner ideas for 6 month baby:

Baby’s First Chicken Soup

Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut Squash Red Lentil Soup

Print

Red Lentil Soup

Author: Eating With Zion

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• ¹⁄₂ cup red lentils
• 1 carrot
• 1 sweet potato
• 1 onion
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 tsp avocado oil or neutral oil
• ¹⁄₄ tsp tumeric
• ¹⁄₄ tsp cumin
• Pinch of black pepper

Directions

1. Soak and wash lentils and prep your veggies
   Mark as complete

1. Heat up pot with avocado oil
   Mark as complete

1. Add your onion and sauté for a few minutes till a little golden
   Mark as complete

1. Add turmeric, cumin, black pepper and garlic and mix
   Mark as complete

1. Add carrot, sweet potato, lentils and mix
   Mark as complete

1. Add 3 1/2 cups water or stock and bring to a boil
   Mark as complete

1. Slightly cover on medium heat for 35 minutes till everything is nice and soft Keep checking to make sure you don't need to add more liquid
   Mark as complete

1. When ready you can blend everything together or leave as is Serve warm
   Mark as complete