Save A gentle, tender lamb dish specially crafted for babies and toddlers, perfect for a festive occasion. Mildly seasoned, easy to eat, and beautifully presented for little hands.
This recipe was inspired by my own babys first birthday party where I wanted a nutritious yet delicious dish suitable for very young children.
Ingredients
- Meat: 400 g boneless lamb shoulder trimmed of fat cut into small cubes
- Vegetables: 2 medium carrots peeled and diced 1 small sweet potato peeled and diced 1 zucchini peeled and diced 1 small onion finely chopped
- Flavorings: 1 tbsp mild olive oil or sunflower oil 1 bay leaf 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional) 1 pinch mild paprika (optional for color)
- Liquids: 400 ml low-salt vegetable or chicken broth (homemade or baby-safe) 100 ml water
- To Serve: 200 g cooked couscous or mashed potatoes (for older babies optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft about 3 minutes.
- Step 2:
- Add the lamb cubes and brown lightly on all sides about 5 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the carrots sweet potato and zucchini. Cook for 2 minutes stirring gently.
- Step 4:
- Add the bay leaf thyme and a small pinch of paprika if using.
- Step 5:
- Pour in the broth and water. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 6:
- Cover and cook on low heat for 40–45 minutes or until the lamb and vegetables are very tender.
- Step 7:
- Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprig.
- Step 8:
- For younger babies mash or blend the mixture to desired consistency. For toddlers serve as is with small pieces.
- Step 9:
- Serve warm with a side of baby-friendly couscous or mashed potatoes if desired.
Save Sharing this platter at family gatherings creates wonderful memories and encourages healthy eating habits from an early age.
Required Tools
Large saucepan with lid Vegetable peeler Sharp knife and cutting board Blender or masher (if needed) Serving plates or baby bowls
Allergen Information
Contains None of the major allergens (dairy nuts eggs soy gluten) if served without couscous If serving with couscous check for gluten Always verify ingredient labels for hidden allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 120 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 8 g Protein 10 g per serving without couscous
Save This mild lamb platter is a nourishing choice that grows with your child as they transition from baby food to toddler meals.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the lamb tender for babies?
Slow cooking the lamb in broth for 40-45 minutes softens the meat, making it tender and easy to chew for little ones.
- → What vegetables complement the lamb in this dish?
Carrots, sweet potato, and zucchini provide a mild, sweet flavor and soft texture, perfect for gentle palates.
- → Can this dish be adapted for toddlers?
Yes, serve in small, soft pieces for toddlers, or mash it thoroughly for younger babies needing smoother textures.
- → What seasonings are used to keep the flavors mild?
Mild olive oil, a bay leaf, fresh thyme, and a pinch of paprika offer gentle flavor without overwhelming sensitive taste buds.
- → Are there allergen concerns with this dish?
This dish is free from common allergens like nuts, dairy, eggs, soy, and gluten if served without couscous. Always check ingredient labels if adding sides.
- → Can I substitute the vegetables used?
Yes, mild options like parsnip or pumpkin can be used to vary flavors and maintain a gentle texture.