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Can babies eat lentils?
Lentils can be offered once your baby has started solids, prepared to suit their stage.
How to cook lentils for a baby
- Method
- Boiled
- Ready in
- 20 Min.
- Texture
- Smooth purée
How you cut and serve lentils changes as your baby grows. That is set out age by age below.
How to prepare lentils, age by age
- 6 to 8 months
- Simmer red lentils until very soft, then blend with water to a smooth purée.
- 9 to 11 months
- Red lentil purée — naturally smooth without blending much.
- 12 to 17 months
- Soft lentils mixed into puréed dishes.
- 18 months and over
- Soft lentils served as part of a meal — dal or stew.
Is lentils an allergen?
Lentils is not one of the main food allergens. Any new food can cause a reaction the first time it is offered, so give it on its own and stay with your baby while they eat.
Is lentils good for babies?
Lentils are one of the richest plant sources of iron and folate. Also high in protein, fibre, and zinc. Red lentils cook the quickest and produce the smoothest purée — ideal for first foods. Pairing with vitamin C-rich vegetables like tomato or carrot significantly boosts non-haem iron absorption.
- Iron
- Folate
- Protein
- Zinc
- Fiber
Storing lentils
In the fridge
3 Days. Refrigerate cooked lentils in a sealed container
In the freezer
3 Months. Cook, cool, and freeze in individual portions
Goes well with
Baby recipes with lentils
- Carrot & Lentil Purée
- Fennel & Lentil Soup
- Lentil & Vegetable Stew
- Ginger Lentil & Onion Dahl
- Lentil & Veggie Patties
- Red Lentil Dahl with Rice
- Sweet Potato & Lentil Fritters
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Not sure what to offer after lentils?
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This page is general information based on NHS weaning guidance, not medical advice. Always stay with your baby while they eat. If you have concerns about allergies, choking or your baby's development, speak to your health visitor or GP.