How To Make An Almond Milk Porridge Recipe For Babies
Table of Contents
Almond Milk vs Cashew Milk
Almond milk and cashew milk are both popular plant-based alternatives for babies and toddlers from 6 months of age, each offering unique nutritional benefits. Almond milk is lower in calories and contains vitamin E, which supports skin health and the immune system which is a great option; however, it may not provide sufficient protein and fat for growing children.
Cashew milk, on the other hand, tends to be creamier and richer in healthy fats, making it a suitable option for adding calories and energy to a child’s diet.
When considering these milks for young ones, it is essential to choose fortified versions to ensure adequate levels of calcium and vitamins D and B12, as well as to consult with a health visitor to address specific dietary needs.
Oat Porridge For Baby
A baby porridge recipe offers numerous benefits for babies for baby led weaning, making it an ideal first food. Rich in dietary fibre, oats can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy gut. This wholesome grain is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, which is crucial for developing little bodies.
The smooth texture of porridge makes it easy for infants to swallow, promoting self-feeding skills as they grow. Additionally, oats are a low allergenic food, typically safe for babies who are starting to explore solid foods, providing a nutritious and gentle option for their early diet. Porridge is a great option for the whole family too.
Easy Healthy Recipes For Baby
Finding healthy easy recipes for babies for baby-led weaning can significantly ease the journey of parenthood, allowing parents to provide nutritious meals without the stress of complicated cooking. Simple purees made from a variety of vegetables and fruits, for instance, can be quickly prepared in batches and stored for convenience.
Incorporating grains like rice or oats into meals offers a wholesome base, while protein sources such as lentils or finely shredded chicken can be added for a balanced diet. Parents can explore healthy breakfast recipes that require minimal ingredients and preparation time, making mealtime enjoyable for both baby and caregiver. This approach is a great way to healthy eating habits early on for young children, setting the foundation for a lifetime of good nutrition.
Are Oats A Common Allergen
Oats are generally considered a low-risk allergen for babies starting baby-led weaning (BLW). They are often introduced as a first grain due to their nutritional benefits, including being a good source of fibre and essential vitamins.
However, while adverse reactions to oats are rare, some individuals may still experience sensitivity or intolerance, particularly those with existing allergies to other grains or gluten.
It is advisable to monitor for any signs of allergic reactions when introducing oats into a baby's diet, as with any new food, to ensure a safe and positive feeding experience.
Babies Readiness Signs To Start Baby Led Weaning
When considering baby-led weaning, parents should look for several readiness signs in their baby. These include the ability to sit up unaided, showing interest in food by reaching for it or watching others eat, and demonstrating good hand-eye coordination by bringing objects to their mouth.
Babies should have started losing the tongue-thrust reflex, which typically occurs around six months of age, allowing them to chew and swallow food effectively. It's also important that they can pick up food and bring it to their mouth, indicating readiness to explore new tastes and textures safely.
Is Porridge A Choking Hazard
Porridge can pose a choking hazard for babies if it is not prepared appropriately. It is essential to ensure that the porridge has a smooth and creamy consistency, particularly for younger infants who are just starting to explore solid foods.
Lumps or overly thick textures may increase the risk of choking, as babies may struggle to manage these textures. Additionally, it is vital to serve porridge at a safe temperature, allowing it to cool sufficiently before feeding.
Careful monitoring and gradual introduction of textures can help mitigate risks and make porridge a safe and nutritious option for baby.
Ingredient information
Almond milk - I have used almond milk, try using an almond milk with no added gums or salt/sugar. Try choosing a milk that is just almond and water. You could also use cashew milk, soy milk or coconut milk too as an alternative. You could also use breast milk for this recipe.
Oats - I have used rolled oats, but feel free to use any type of oats that you may have such as quick oats as they will be blitzed in the nutri bullet or food processor.
Ground almonds - I have added ground almonds, for added nutrition and nuttiness. You could leave this out.
Flaxseed - I have added a little flaxseed for nutrition but you could add chia seeds too if you prefer.
Serving suggestion
The porridge would be great served with fresh berries such as mashed strawberries and raspberries or quartered strawberries.
You could serve with a smooth almond butter drizzle or natural peanut butter. Try adding tree nuts to the blender too for added nutrition and flavour.
You could serve with fresh fruits such as squished blueberries and blackberries too. Or a ripe banana or mashed banana.
Other similar recipes: Quinoa porridge, porridge, chia seed pudding or overnight oats.
Storage instructions
Once the almond milk is added to the oats it can be left in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Its best stored in an airtight container to keep fresh. You can store the porridge oat mix in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Handy if you want to make a batch for busy mornings.
You can also freeze the porridge as well for up to 3 months in the freezer in a large airtight container or portion the porridge up into smaller airtight containers.
Once you are ready to remove from the freezer, all you will ned to do is leave to thaw in the fridge in the container, once defrosted fully, heat in the same way.
Once heated you will not be able to reheat.
Equipment used to help with this recipe
Kilner jars - These Kilner kids glass jars with a chunky silicone lid are ideal for storing homemade baby food. They are fridge, freezer and microwave safe.
Saucepan - So many pan sets out there but I particularly like to use pans with a non-stick surface for ease of cleaning and ones that are suitable for different types of hob surface.
Airtight container - I much prefer the click-shut lids on these containers compared to others. They are also dishwasher and freezer safe and BPA free, so very suitable for food use.
Recipe | How To Make An Almond Milk Porridge Recipe For Babies
How To Make An Almond Milk Porridge Recipe For Babies
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blitz the oats and ground almonds in a nutri bullet or food processor until a smooth flour.
- You can store this mixture in a kilner jar for future use.
- To make the porridge, use 3 tablespoons of the mixture with 60ml of the almond milk and pop into the microwave for 10-20 seconds until warm and a smooth consistency.
Notes
You an use gluten free oats to make the recipe a gluten free porridge.
You could substitute the almond milk for oat milk for nut free-dairy free babies.
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