🫘 Weaning (6-12 months)
Mild Lentil & Vegetable Dhal
By Emma Whitfield · Pregnancy & Baby Writer
Iron is one of the most important nutrients to prioritise once weaning starts, and lentils are an accessible, affordable source. This dhal is mild enough for a first try and freezes into a genuinely useful batch-cooked staple.
Ingredients
- 100g red split lentils, rinsed
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 small sweet potato, diced
- 500ml water
- 1/4 tsp ground turmeric (optional, for colour)
Method
- Combine the lentils, carrot, sweet potato, water and turmeric in a pan.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils have broken down and the vegetables are soft.
- Blend to your baby's preferred texture — smooth for early weaning, mashed with texture for older babies.
- Cool fully and check temperature before serving.
Tips
- Serve alongside a vitamin C source (a few pieces of soft-cooked pepper, or a little orange segment) in the same meal — it meaningfully improves iron absorption from plant sources.
- This freezes and reheats better than most purées — a genuinely useful batch-cook.
Weaning safety reminders
No honey before 12 months (infant botulism risk). No added salt or sugar. Cut round foods (grapes, cherry tomatoes) in quarters, not halves. Always supervise your baby while they eat, sitting upright, and check food has cooled to a safe temperature.
Questions about this recipe
Is mild lentil & vegetable dhal suitable from 7 months+?
Yes — this recipe is designed for 7 months+. As with any weaning food, introduce one new ingredient at a time if your baby hasn’t had it before, and always supervise your baby while they eat.
Does this recipe contain common allergens?
No — this recipe doesn’t contain any of the 14 major allergens as written. Always double-check the specific brands you use, since packaged ingredients can vary.
Can I freeze mild lentil & vegetable dhal?
Yes, this recipe freezes well — see the tips below for the best way to portion and reheat it.
More weaning (6-12 months) recipes
This is general information, not medical or dietary advice — every baby and child is different. For allergy concerns, a family history of allergies, or anything you're unsure about, speak to your health visitor, GP or a registered dietitian before introducing new foods. Reviewed July 2026.