Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Moong Dal & Rice Porridge Recipe – Easy Baby Food & Cumin Flavors

Introduction

Oh, this porridge! It’s a hug in a bowl, honestly. I first made this for my little one when she was starting solids, and it quickly became a family favorite. It’s simple, nourishing, and the gentle flavor of cumin is just… comforting. This moong dal and rice porridge (dalia) is a staple in many Indian homes, and for good reason. It’s incredibly versatile, easily digestible, and perfect for babies, toddlers, or even a light, comforting meal for adults. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another porridge recipe. It’s a little bit of Indian tradition, packed with goodness. It’s quick to make, needing just around 20 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it’s super adaptable – you can tweak it to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. It’s a fantastic first food for babies, and a lovely way to introduce them to the wonderful world of Indian flavors.

Ingredients

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

• ½ cup boiled rice or raw rice (sona masoori) – about 100g
• 1.5 tbsp moong dal – about 20g
• 1 tsp roasted & powdered cumin seeds – about 5g
• As needed salt
• 4-5 cups water – about 950-1200ml
• ¼ cup milk – about 60ml (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 tsp ghee – about 10g

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Moong Dal: Benefits & Selection

Moong dal (split yellow lentils) is a powerhouse of protein and easy to digest – making it ideal for babies and anyone with a sensitive stomach. Make sure you use split moong dal (yellow moong dal), not whole moong beans. It cooks much faster and has a smoother texture.

Rice Varieties: Sona Masoori & Alternatives

I prefer using Sona Masoori rice for this porridge because it cooks up soft and fluffy. But you can also use other short-grain rice varieties like basmati (though it might take a little longer to cook) or even leftover cooked rice!

Cumin Seeds: Roasting & Powdering for Flavor

Roasting the cumin seeds really brings out their aroma. Just a quick dry roast in a pan until fragrant, then grind them to a powder. Trust me, it makes a difference! You can buy pre-powdered cumin, but freshly roasted is best.

Ghee vs. Oil: Choosing the Right Fat

Ghee adds a lovely richness and traditional flavor. But if you prefer, you can use a neutral oil like sunflower or canola oil. Ghee is considered more digestible in Ayurveda, which is why it’s often used in baby food.

Regional Variations in Porridge Consistency

Every family has their own way of making porridge! Some like it really runny, almost like a soup. Others prefer a thicker, more substantial consistency. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what your family loves. In some regions, a touch of jaggery (unrefined cane sugar) is added for sweetness.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, dry roast the moong dal in a pressure cooker over medium heat for about a minute. This helps to remove any moisture and enhances the flavor.
2. Now, add the washed rice, water, and a pinch of salt to the cooker. Close the lid and cook on low heat for 1-2 whistles.
3. Once the pressure releases naturally (don’t force it!), open the cooker and give the mixture a good mash with a whisk. This is where the magic happens – it transforms into a lovely, creamy porridge.
4. Adjust the consistency by adding a little more water, milk, or even coconut milk if you’re feeling fancy. Taste and adjust the salt as needed.
5. Finally, heat the ghee in a small pan and roast the cumin seeds until fragrant. Coarsely grind them and stir them into the porridge. The aroma is heavenly!

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned along the way:

Achieving the Perfect Porridge Consistency

The key is to add liquid gradually. Start with less and add more until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, it will thicken as it cools.

Adjusting for Different Age Groups (Babies & Adults)

For babies, reduce the amount of cumin and adjust the ghee based on their age and dietary needs. Adults might enjoy a little extra cumin and a dollop of yogurt on top!

Roasting Moong Dal: Why It’s Important

Roasting the dal isn’t essential, but it really does improve the flavor and makes it easier to digest.

Using a Whisk vs. Masher

A whisk is great for getting a really smooth porridge, especially for babies. A masher will give it a slightly chunkier texture, which some people prefer.

Variations

Let’s get creative!

Vegan Moong Dal & Rice Porridge

Simply substitute the ghee with a plant-based oil and the milk with plant-based milk (almond, soy, or coconut milk work well).

Gluten-Free Adaptation

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that your cumin powder hasn’t been processed in a facility that also handles gluten.

Spice Level: Adjusting Cumin for Palates

If you’re not a fan of cumin, you can reduce the amount or even omit it altogether. A pinch of turmeric can add a lovely color and subtle flavor.

Festival Adaptation: Adding Seasonal Flavors (e.g., Diwali)

During Diwali, my grandmother used to add a tiny bit of cardamom and chopped nuts to the porridge for a festive touch.

For Older Children: Adding Vegetables & Fruits

Sneak in some finely grated carrots, spinach, or mashed banana for extra nutrients. My kids love it when I add a few berries!

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm, and enjoy! A dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or a drizzle of honey (for older children) make lovely toppings.

Storage Instructions

Leftover porridge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water or milk if needed.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

Is this porridge suitable for a 6-month-old baby?

Yes, absolutely! Just make sure the porridge is very smooth and the cumin is used sparingly.

Can I use pre-cooked rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Reduce the cooking time accordingly.

How can I make this porridge sweeter without using sugar?

Try adding a mashed banana, a date paste, or a small amount of grated apple.

What are the benefits of adding cumin to baby food?

Cumin aids digestion and is rich in iron.

Can I prepare this porridge in advance and reheat it?

Yes, you can! It’s a great make-ahead option.

How do I adjust the recipe for a thinner or thicker consistency?

Add more water for a thinner consistency, and cook for a few more minutes (without adding more water) for a thicker consistency.