Seven months is a crucial time for babies to begin exploring different flavors and textures. This is the perfect time to introduce natural spices , which not only add delicious flavor but also offer numerous health benefits.
This baby-friendly version of Soto Betawi offers delicious and balanced nutrition from beef, coconut milk, and fresh vegetables , seasoned with gentle spices that are safe for little ones. It's perfect as a soft porridge or adapted for Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) .
🌿 Why Soto Betawi is Suitable for 7-Month-Old Baby Food
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Rich Aroma Natural Spices: The combination of garlic, ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, and lime leaves introduces natural flavors and trains baby's sense of taste.
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High Protein & Iron: Beef is rich in heme iron and protein to support growth and prevent anemia.
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Nutritious Vegetables: Carrots and broccoli are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support digestion and the immune system.
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Varied Menu: Delicious and nutritious alternatives to keep your baby from getting bored.
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Flexible Texture: Can be made into soft porridge or processed into a BLW menu that is easy to hold.
🥣 Ingredients (for 1 meal, ±90–100 gr)
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3 tbsp cooked white rice
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30 grams of minced beef
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10 grams of carrots, cut into small pieces
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5 grams of broccoli (optional)
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¼ tomato, seeds removed
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40–50 ml beef stock (adjust texture)
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30 ml homemade coconut milk (optional)
👉 Use homemade beef broth , see the recipe here → Homemade Beef Broth Recipe: A Savory & Safe MPASI Base
👉 Use homemade coconut milk , see the recipe here → Homemade Coconut Milk Recipe for MPASI
🌸 Aromatic Seasonings
(Discard before serving)
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Finely ground spices: shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, grated nutmeg
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Bay leaf
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Lime leaves
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Lemongrass, bruised
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Galangal, bruised
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Spring onions, celery
👩🍳 How to Make
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Grind the spices: Grind or blend the shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and nutmeg.
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Sauté the spices: Heat unsalted butter or coconut oil. Sauté the ground spices until fragrant. Add the bay leaves, lime leaves, lemongrass, and galangal.
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Cook the meat: Add the minced beef, cook until cooked and changes color.
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Add vegetables & rice: Add carrots and rice, mix well.
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Pour in the stock and coconut milk: Add the stock little by little. Add the coconut milk (if using), stirring until well combined.
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Cook until tender: Let it cook until all the ingredients are cooked and the spices are absorbed.
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Remove the spices: Remove the bay leaves, lemongrass, galangal, and lime leaves before serving.
🧁 Customize Texture
Puree (6–8 months)
Blend roughly or mash with a fork until smooth but not too smooth. Add more stock if it's too thick.
BLW (8+ months)
Steam chopped carrots and broccoli until tender for finger food. The meat can be roughly chopped; serve a little of the sauce over rice or as a mild dipping sauce.
🌟 Benefits of This Recipe
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Beef: Rich in heme iron & protein → prevents anemia, helps build muscle.
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Turmeric & Ginger: Natural antioxidants to support immunity & digestion.
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Carrots: High in beta-carotene for eye health & immunity.
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Broccoli: Vitamin C & fiber for immunity and digestion.
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Coconut milk (optional): Healthy fats support brain development & are an additional source of energy.
❓ FAQ
1. Can this recipe be saved?
Yes, up to 24 hours in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Heat before serving.
2. What if the baby is allergic to beef or coconut milk?
Replace the beef with chicken/soft tofu; the coconut milk can be replaced with additional stock or a little olive oil.
3. Can babies eat spices like ginger and turmeric?
Yes, as long as it is cooked thoroughly and used in small amounts — it is safe and helps digestion.
4. Can I add salt or soy sauce to my baby's food?
No need. Use natural flavors from spices, meat, and vegetables.
5. How do you introduce a spiced menu like this to your baby for the first time?
Start with small portions (1–2 tbsp), observe your baby's response, then increase the portion gradually.
