18 Indian Pancake Recipe For Toddlers They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 30, 2024
When it comes to feeding our little ones, we want to make sure they are getting the best nutrition possible. However, it can be challenging to find healthy and tasty options that are also easy to prepare. One dish that checks all these boxes is the Indian pancake, also known as "cheela." This savory and protein-packed recipe is perfect for toddlers who are transitioning to solid foods or picky eaters who need some variety in their meals. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make this delightful dish for your little one.
Delicious and hearty, this Indian spiced lentil dish is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly night. The combination of fragrant spices and creamy lentils make for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Serve with naan bread for a complete Indian-inspired feast.
This classic Indian dish is made with tender pieces of chicken cooked in a rich and creamy tomato sauce. The addition of ghee, or clarified butter, gives it a rich and buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with basmati rice or roti. Don't be intimidated by the long list of ingredients – this dish is worth the effort!
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Indian Chicken Korma
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Extra Virgin Olive
A mild and creamy curry, this Indian chicken korma is perfect for those who prefer a less spicy dish. The combination of coconut milk and ground cashews gives it a rich and creamy texture, while the spices add a depth of flavor. Serve over jasmine rice for a delicious and comforting meal.
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Indian Chickpea Coconut Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Curry
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish, this Indian chickpea coconut curry is perfect for a Meatless Monday dinner. The combination of creamy coconut milk and chickpeas makes for a satisfying and protein-packed meal. Serve with naan bread for dipping.
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Indian Dal Nirvana (Dal Makhani)
Main Ingredients: Dry Lentils, Crushed Tomato, Fresh Ginger, Minced
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Indian Curry Chicken
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Boneless Skinless Chicken, Onion
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Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Fresh Grated Ginger
This vegetarian dish is packed with protein and flavor. The combination of creamy coconut milk and hearty red lentils makes for a satisfying and filling meal. Add some spinach or other veggies for added nutrients and flavor.
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Savory Indian Pancake
Main Ingredients: Oil, Almond Flour, Tapioca Flour, Coconut Milk, Salt
This savory Indian pancake is perfect for breakfast or brunch. Made with a batter of chickpea flour, herbs, and spices, it's a flavorful and protein-packed alternative to traditional pancakes. Serve with a side of coconut chutney for dipping.
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North Indian Chicken Curry
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Onions, Plain Yogurt, Cornstarch, Ginger
This North Indian chicken curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party. The tender chicken is cooked in a spicy and fragrant gravy, made with a blend of spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Serve with basmati rice and naan bread for a complete meal.
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Roti (Buttery Indian Flatbread)
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Salt, Melted Butter, Water, Butter
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Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Semolina, Powdered Sugar, White Bread
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Main Ingredients: Spice Mix, Madras Curry Powder, Chili Powder, Paprika
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Main Ingredients: Baby Okra, Fat, Cumin Seeds, Onion, Serrano Pepper
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Stovetop Naan bread( Indian Naan bread)
Main Ingredients: Dried Yeast, Water, Sugar, Yoghurt, Egg, Ghee, Flour
This traditional Indian bread is a staple in many households. Made with a simple dough of flour, yeast, and yogurt, it's cooked on the stovetop for a quick and easy side dish. Serve hot with your favorite curries or stews.
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Indian Dal Soup
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Garlic, Fresh Ginger, Cayenne
This comforting and hearty soup is a staple in many Indian households. Made with red lentils and flavored with a blend of spices like tumeric and cumin, it's a delicious and nutritious meal. Serve with a side of roti or naan bread for a complete meal.
This traditional Indian dish is a flavorful and protein-packed way to enjoy red lentils. The lentils are cooked in a fragrant and spicy gravy, made with a blend of spices like garam masala and coriander. Serve over basmati rice for a filling and satisfying meal.
Why Choose Indian Pancakes for Toddlers?
Rich in Nutrients
Indian pancakes are made with a batter that is made from a combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices. This combination provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial for a growing toddler's development. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle and bone growth. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to the dish, making it a nutritious and well-rounded meal for your little one.
Easy to Digest
Toddlers have delicate digestive systems, and some foods can be tough for them to digest. Indian pancakes are made from ground lentils, which are easily digestible and gentle on their stomachs. The addition of vegetables also helps in aiding digestion, making it a perfect meal for toddlers.
Variety of Flavors
One of the biggest challenges of feeding toddlers is their ever-changing taste buds. One day they love a particular food, and the next day, they refuse to even look at it. Indian pancakes come in a variety of flavors, depending on the vegetables and spices used. This offers a great opportunity for parents to introduce new flavors and ingredients to their little ones, expanding their palate and promoting healthy eating habits.
How to Prepare Indian Pancakes for Toddlers
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
To make Indian pancakes for toddlers, you will need:
- 1 cup of lentils (any variety)
- 1 cup of chopped vegetables (carrots, peas, spinach, etc.)
- 1 tsp of cumin, turmeric, and coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- Water
- Oil or ghee for cooking
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
Soak the lentils in water for a few hours, then drain and rinse them. In a blender, add the lentils, chopped vegetables, spices, and salt, then blend until you have a smooth batter. Add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a little oil or ghee. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan and spread it out into a thin pancake. Cook for a few minutes until the edges start to brown, then flip and cook the other side. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the pancakes are cooked, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve them with a side of yogurt or a chutney for added flavor and nutrition.
In conclusion, Indian pancakes, or cheela, are an excellent option for toddlers' meals. They are not only nutritious and easy to digest, but also offer a variety of flavors to keep your little one interested in their meals. So why not give this recipe a try and see your toddler enjoy every bite?
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