Easy Rice Cereal Recipe – Homemade Baby Food for Sensitive Tummies

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Rice Cereal Recipe – Homemade Baby Food For Sensitive Tummies

Hey everyone! As a mum myself, I totally get the worry when it comes to starting your little one on solids. It feels like such a big step! I remember when I first made this rice cereal for my little one – wanting something gentle, wholesome, and knowing exactly what was going into it. This recipe is a lifesaver for sensitive tummies, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade rice cereal is incredibly gentle and easy to digest, making it perfect for baby’s first foods. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking to avoid additives and preservatives found in some store-bought cereals. Plus, it’s super customizable – you can easily adjust the consistency and even add a little flavour boost with some carrot or dal water! Honestly, knowing exactly what my baby was eating gave me so much peace of mind.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of this goodness:

• ¼ cup cooking rice (about 40g)
• 2 tablespoons homemade rice cereal (about 20g)
• ¾ cup water (180ml)
• ¼ cup carrot water (60ml) – optional
• ¼ cup dal water (60ml) – optional

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Using simple cooking rice is key here – we want something easily digestible. Don’t worry about fancy varieties for this one.

I always recommend making your own cereal over store-bought. You have complete control over the ingredients, and it’s surprisingly easy! Plus, you avoid any hidden nasties.

Now, about that carrot or dal water… these aren’t just for flavour! They add a lovely subtle sweetness and a boost of nutrients. I often used carrot water when my little one was starting out, and it made the cereal a little more appealing. Dal water is also a great option, especially if your baby enjoys the taste of dal. You can even use plain water if you prefer – it’s totally up to you!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Okay, let’s get cooking! Don’t worry, it’s simpler than you think.

1. First, rinse ¼ cup of rice thoroughly under cold water 2-3 times. This helps remove excess starch. Drain the water completely.
2. Now, dry roast the rice in a pan on low flame. Keep stirring! You want it to become puffy and completely moisture-free – but avoid letting it brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cool the roasted rice completely. Then, grind it to a slightly coarse powder using a mixer. Don’t over-grind it; a little texture is good!
4. Store your homemade rice cereal in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
5. When you’re ready to make the porridge, mix 2 tablespoons of rice cereal with ¾ cup of water off the heat.
6. Cook the mixture on low flame, stirring continuously. It will thicken up pretty quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes.
7. If you’re using it, add ¼ cup of carrot water or dal water for extra flavour and nutrients. Stir well to combine.
8. Finally, sterilize your feeding utensils and serve the cereal warm with a soft spoon.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I learned along the way:

• Consistency is key: Start with a thinner consistency and gradually thicken it as your baby gets used to solids. You can always add more cereal or water to adjust.
• Watch for allergies: Introduce rice cereal as a single-ingredient food to watch for any allergic reactions.
• Introducing solids: Remember to follow your pediatrician’s guidance on when to start solids and how much to feed your baby.
• Don’t force it: If your baby turns their head away or seems uninterested, don’t force them to eat. Try again another time.

Variations

• Spice Level: None – this is perfect for delicate baby tummies!
• Festival Adaptations: Not applicable.
• Gluten-Free: Yes! Rice is naturally gluten-free.
• Vegan: Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan.

My friend actually started adding a tiny pinch of turmeric to her baby’s cereal once they were a little older – she said it was a traditional practice in her family.

Serving Suggestions

• Age-appropriate serving sizes: Start with 1-2 tablespoons for the first few times, and gradually increase the amount as your baby gets older.
• Combine with fruit purees: Once your baby is comfortable with rice cereal, you can mix in a spoonful of apple puree, banana puree, or any other fruit puree they enjoy.

Storage Instructions

• Homemade cereal: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months.
• Cooked cereal: Cooked cereal is best served immediately. If you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked cereal in ice cube trays for convenient portion sizes. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Is homemade rice cereal better than store-bought?

Absolutely! You control the ingredients, avoid additives, and know exactly what your little one is eating.

How do I know if my baby is ready for rice cereal?

Look for signs like good head control, the ability to sit with support, and an interest in food. Always check with your pediatrician first.

Can I use different types of water besides carrot or dal water?

Yes, you can! Plain water is perfectly fine. You can also try vegetable broth (low sodium) for a little extra flavour.

What if my baby doesn’t like the taste?

Don’t worry! It can take multiple tries for a baby to accept a new food. Try mixing it with a fruit puree they already enjoy.

How can I adjust the consistency of the cereal?

Add more water for a thinner consistency, or more cereal for a thicker consistency. It’s all about finding what works best for your baby!