Brown lentils may be introduced as soon as your baby is ready to start solid foods, which is generally around 6 months of age. Lentils are naturally soft when cooked properly and can be mashed or flattened to suit your baby's developmental stage. They offer valuable iron and protein, making them an excellent choice for early weaning.
Brown lentils are an excellent source of plant-based iron, which supports healthy blood development and helps prevent anaemia in growing babies. They also provide protein for growth and development, along with fibre to support digestive health. Additionally, lentils contain B vitamins and folate, which contribute to energy and brain development.
Cooked brown lentils have a low choking risk because they are soft, small, and easy to mash between the gums. When prepared until tender and served mashed or flattened, they break down easily in the mouth and pose minimal risk.
Lentils are not a common allergen and are generally well tolerated by most babies. As with any new food, introduce brown lentils on their own at first and watch for signs of an allergic reaction, though this is rare.
Detailed prep guidance tailored to each stage.
Cook brown lentils until very soft and tender, then mash or flatten them before serving. You can mix them with breast milk, formula, or a little water to create a softer texture that is easier for young babies to manage. Serve the mashed lentils on a preloaded spoon for your baby to grasp, spread thinly on toast strips, or offer in small dollops on their tray for scooping practice.
At this age, you can offer cooked brown lentils slightly less mashed, though still soft and easy to squash. Try forming the cooked lentils into soft falafel-style patties or small flattened cakes that your baby can hold and bite into. You can also serve them as a thick dhal or mixed into other soft foods like mashed vegetables or porridge.
Toddlers can manage whole cooked brown lentils as part of family meals, served in dishes like lentil dhal, soups, or stews. Ensure the lentils are still cooked until soft and serve dhal thick enough for your toddler to scoop with their hands or a spoon. You can also offer lentil patties, lentil pasta sauces, or lentils mixed into rice and other grains.
