Last updated: January 2026
Ghar ka bana cerelac (homemade baby cereal) is healthier, cheaper, and more nutritious than store-bought options! Made from roasted rice, dal, and nuts, it provides essential nutrients for your 6-month+ baby without preservatives or added sugar. This traditional Indian recipe has been trusted by generations of mothers and can be customized as your baby grows.
Watch: How to Hand Express Breast Milk: A Step-by-Step Guide
| Homemade | Store-Bought |
|---|---|
| No preservatives | Contains preservatives |
| No added sugar | May have added sugar |
| Fresher ingredients | Processed |
| You control quality | Pre-packaged |
| Much cheaper | Expensive |
| Can customize | Fixed recipe |
| Traditional nutrition | May have fillers |
Basic Version (6+ months):
Enhanced Version (7+ months):
Add to basic version:
Advanced Version (8+ months):
Add:
For rice and dal:
For nuts (if using):
Storage tips:
Ingredients:
Steps:
With Fruit (7+ months):
With Vegetables (7+ months):
With Healthy Fats (all ages):
| Age | Amount | Frequency | Consistency |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 months | 1-2 tbsp | 1-2 times/day | Very thin, watery |
| 7-8 months | 2-3 tbsp | 2-3 times/day | Slightly thicker |
| 9-12 months | 4-5 tbsp | 3 times/day | Thicker, can have some texture |
Remember: Maa ka doodh remains primary nutrition until 1 year. Solids are supplementary.
Ingredients:
Benefit: Extra iron for preventing anemia
Ingredients:
Benefit: Variety of nutrients, different textures
Ingredients:
Benefit: Natural sweetness without sugar
Consult your pediatrician if:
A: Nahi! WHO and IAP both recommend starting solids at 6 months, not before. Before 6 months, maa ka doodh alone provides all nutrition. Starting early can cause digestive problems and increases allergy risk.
A: Homemade is better! You control the ingredients, there are no preservatives, it's fresher, and much cheaper. Store-bought is just convenient. If you have time, always prefer ghar ka bana.
A: Yes, nuts can cause allergies. When adding nuts for the first time, add only one type and follow the 3-day rule (same food for 3 days, watch for reactions). If there's family history of nut allergy, consult doctor before introducing.
A: Room temperature: 1 month in airtight container. Refrigerator: 2-3 months. Freezer: 3-4 months. Always use clean, dry spoon. If powder changes color, smells different, or has any moisture, discard it.
A: Never force feed! It creates negative association with food. If baby refuses, stop, try again later or next day. Some babies take weeks to accept new textures. Maa ka doodh is still providing nutrition, so don't worry too much.
---
This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Homemade baby food is always the best choice when made hygienically.
Need personalized guidance? Book a consultation with our pediatricians or explore our Care Plans for 24/7 expert support!
Access 50+ pediatricians on WhatsApp anytime. Get instant answers for all your baby health concerns.
Explore Care Plans
How Much Sugar Is Too Much for Kids? Quick Answer No added sugar before age 2, and maximum 6 teaspoons (25 grams) dail...
Baby Led Weaning (BLW) Quick Answer YES, Baby Led Weaning (BLW) is a safe and effective way to introduce solids - and ...
Spinning Junk into Joy: Minimize Undesirable Food from Your Child's Diet Quick Answer You don't have to ban junk food ...
Pear Puree: Healthy & Delicious Food Last updated: January 2026 Quick Answer Nashpati (pear) is an excellent first fo...
7-Month-Old Baby Diet Chart & Daily Routine Quick Answer: Your 7-month-old needs 3 solid meals plus 2 small snacks dail...
