A Gentle, Flavourful Weaning Recipe for Babies in the Early Stages of their Weaning Journey.
If you’re ready to introduce your baby to new tastes beyond plain purées, this creamy sweet potato, red lentil, and coconut mash is a perfect next step. It’s gentle on tiny tummies, packed with nutrients, and subtly spiced with sweet paprika to support early flavour learning—without overwhelming your baby’s palate.
This recipe is suitable for when babies are often ready for more variety in texture and taste. It’s a great option for plant-based families, or simply to mix things up at mealtimes.
🥄 Why This Recipe Works
Every ingredient has been chosen with your baby’s development in mind:
✅ Sweet Potato – Naturally sweet and packed with beta-carotene (vitamin A) to support healthy eyesight and immune function.
✅ Red Lentils – A soft, quick-cooking legume rich in iron, protein, and fibre—important for growth and digestion.
✅ Coconut Milk – Adds a creamy texture and healthy fats that support brain development.
✅ Sweet Paprika – A mild, baby-safe spice that introduces flavour without heat, encouraging adventurous eating habits from the start.
✅ Fresh Coriander (optional) – Adds a fresh, herby twist and a sensory boost.
👩🍳 Ingredients
- 1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp red lentils (rinsed well)
- ¼ cup full-fat, unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 small pinch of sweet paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander, finely chopped (optional)
- Water as needed
🍲 Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the sweet potato, red lentils, and coconut milk.
- Add enough water to just cover the ingredients.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until everything is soft and well-cooked.
- Stir in the sweet paprika and coriander (if using).
- Blend, mash, or fork-mash to your baby’s preferred consistency.
👶🏼 Weaning Tip
It’s never too early to introduce your baby to gentle herbs and spices. In fact, flavour exposure in the first year supports more adventurous eating later on. Spices like cinnamon, cumin, sweet paprika, and fresh herbs are safe from 6 months—just avoid anything hot or salty.
🧊 Batch-Friendly Bonus
This mash freezes beautifully. Spoon into baby-safe freezer trays or small containers and label. Perfect for busy days when you need a nutritious, ready-to-go option in seconds!
💬 Final Thoughts
Weaning is a sensory journey for your baby—so lean into variety, gentle flavours, and nutrient-rich combinations. This sweet potato, lentil and coconut mash is a beautiful balance of comfort and exploration.
Looking for more baby-friendly recipes or tips on baby feeding and sleep support?
Follow along on Instagram @thehappybabyexpert or check out my blog for more supportive, expert-led weaning and baby sleep guidance.