Mashed Beans
A gentle, nutritious mash of green beans, lightly spiced with cumin and enriched with ghee. Perfectly textured for toddlers, this simple dish is easy to digest and makes a wonderful introduction to Indian flavors.
For 2 servings
Prepare the beans
Wash the french beans thoroughly. Trim the ends and chop them into small 1-inch pieces.
Steam the beans until tender
- Place the chopped beans in a small saucepan.
- Add 1/4 cup of water and bring to a boil.
- Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it steam for 8-10 minutes, or until the beans are very soft and easily pierced with a fork.
TIPSteaming preserves more nutrients compared to boiling. Ensure there's just enough water to create steam without submerging the beans.Mash the cooked beans
Drain any excess water from the pan. Using a potato masher or the back of a fork, mash the beans to a smooth or slightly chunky consistency, depending on your toddler's preference.
Prepare the tempering
- Heat the ghee in a small tadka pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Once the ghee is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for about 30 seconds.
- Add the pinch of asafoetida and turmeric powder, and stir for a few seconds.
TIPDon't let the spices burn. The whole tempering process should be quick, just until the aromas are released.Combine and serve
Pour the hot tempering over the mashed beans. Add the pinch of salt (if using) and mix everything together well. Allow it to cool down to a comfortable temperature before serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure beans are cooked until very soft to make mashing easy and ensure it's safe for the toddler.
- 2You can adjust the consistency by adding a little warm water while mashing.
- 3For older toddlers who can handle more texture, you can mash the beans less to leave them slightly chunky.
- 4Always introduce new foods in small quantities to check for any potential allergies.
- 5This mash can be mixed with a little plain cooked rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. French beans provide fiber and vitamins, while ghee offers healthy fats essential for brain development. The mild spices like cumin and asafoetida aid digestion.
