Lentils for Babies: How to Serve Them Safely
Yes. Soft cooked lentils are an excellent iron-rich food from about 6 months. Mash them for younger babies. Red lentils cook quickly and mash easily, which makes them a practical BLW staple.
Can babies eat lentils?
Yes. They should be soft enough to mash with gums. Whole firm lentils are harder to manage than a thick lentil mash.
When can babies have lentils?
Around 6 months. They are one of the better vegetarian iron sources for complementary feeding.
Lentils provide iron, protein, and fiber. Serve with a vitamin C food such as tomato, kiwi, or strawberry.
How to serve lentils
How to serve lentils at 6 months
Offer a thick mash on a spoon or as a scoopable pile. The lentils should have no firm center.
How to serve lentils at 9 months
Slightly mashed or very soft whole lentils. Pre-load a spoon or let hands scoop.
How to serve lentils at 12+ months
Soft whole lentils in family dishes are fine. Keep salt low.
Are lentils a choking hazard?
Undercooked lentils and dry lentil patties that crumble into hard bits are the risk. Cook until truly soft.
Are lentils an allergen?
Lentils are not a top-9 allergen in the U.S. Introduce like any new food.
How much lentils can a baby eat?
A few spoonfuls of mash is a strong iron serving for a 6-month-old.
Do lentils need to be cooked?
Yes. Simmer 15–20 minutes or until mashable.
Can babies eat frozen lentils?
Cooked lentils freeze well for 2–3 months.
How to prepare lentils
- Rinse lentils.
- Simmer until they mash easily.
- Drain extra liquid and serve warm.
Storage
- Refrigerate 3–5 days.
- Cool before freezing.
Frequently asked questions
Red, green, or brown lentils?
Red lentils mash fastest and are easiest for 6 months. Any type works if fully soft.
Sources
- Starting Solid Foods — American Academy of Pediatrics
- When, What, and How to Introduce Solid Foods — CDC
- Complementary feeding — World Health Organization
- Your baby’s first solid foods — NHS
Reviewed by Morvarid Nikousokhantayar, Canadian Child Nutrition & BLW Expert.