- June 20, 2025
- 11:32 AM
Indian food is full of flavor, richness, and heritage—and spices play a huge role in that! If you’re following baby-led weaning (BLW), you might wonder: “Can I add spices to my baby’s meals?” The answer is YES—with the right approach and a little care.
Why Add Spices at All?
Spices don’t just make food delicious—they’re also packed with benefits:
Cumin aids digestion
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties
Ajwain (carom seeds) eases gas
Cinnamon supports metabolism and adds natural sweetness
Babies are born with a clean palate—starting early with mild spices helps them embrace diverse flavors and reduces fussiness later on.
Which Spices Are Baby-Friendly?
Start with mild, aromatic spices around 6–8 months, once your baby has accepted a few basic solids:
| Spice | Age to Introduce | Use In |
|---|---|---|
| Cumin (jeera) | 6 months | Dal, khichdi, veggies |
| Turmeric (haldi) | 6 months | Curries, soups, rice |
| Fennel (saunf) | 6–7 months | Stews, fruit compotes |
| Cardamom (elaichi) | 7 months | Pancakes, porridges |
| Cinnamon (dalchini) | 7 months | Ragi, apple puree |
| Ajwain (carom seeds) | 8 months | Paratha, thepla |
Use hing (asafetida with wheat) from 6months, a pinch from 6months & a pinch of pepper starting 9months
How to Add Spices the Right Way
Use Whole or Mild Powdered Forms
E.g., use lightly toasted cumin seeds or a pinch of powdered turmeric.Start Small
Begin with just a pinch, increasing gradually over weeks.Watch for Reactions
Look out for rashes, loose stools, or irritability after new spice introduction.Mix with Familiar Foods
Try cumin in dal your baby already loves, or a dash of cinnamon in their morning ragi porridge.
Sample Spice-Friendly Meal Ideas
Cumin-Spiced Moong Dal Khichdi
Turmeric Carrot Soup with Rice
Cinnamon Apple Pancakes
Ajwain Masala Paratha with Veggie Mash
If you’re unsure how to plan meals that are nutritious, spice-safe, and BLW-friendly, our Nutrition Club is designed just for you. Every week, we share:
✅ Balanced meal plans for babies
✅ Grocery lists and spice tips
✅ Full recipes
✅ Allergen guides + substitution options
👉 Join our Nutrition Club Telegram Channel and take the guesswork out of baby meals.
