As babies reach 9 months of age, they begin to show interest in foods they can hold. This is the stage where soft finger foods become extremely beneficial for developing independent eating, hand-mouth coordination, and confidence while eating.
Tofu Tim Chicken is one of the best choices because:
✨ Soft texture but dense enough to hold
✨ High protein from chicken + tofu
✨ Egg-free → safe for families who are delaying egg allergies
✨ No salt, no sharp spices
✨ Can be varied for the family by simply adding seasoning
With the steaming method, the texture remains moist, not hard, and is easy to crush with two fingers—safe for babies who are just learning to hold finger food.
🌱 Mummasphere Principles:
One dish, different seasoning & texture.
🥣 Ingredients (±8–10 soft mini nuggets)
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40 g finely chopped chicken
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50–60 g tofu (soft white tofu), squeezed smooth
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10 g finely grated carrots
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½ clove grated garlic
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1 tsp olive oil / unsalted butter
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1–2 tbsp rice flour (to help set, keep soft)
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1–2 tbsp water/unsalted chicken stock
Complementary Ingredients (optional, not mandatory):
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Very finely chopped mushrooms (cook first)
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Fine leeks for >12 months
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Mild cheese is very little for >12 months
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EVOO ½ tsp when serving
👩🍳 How to Make
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Mix chopped chicken + squeezed tofu + carrots + garlic.
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Add rice flour little by little until the dough sets but remains soft.
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Add a little water/stock if it's too dry.
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Shape into a small oval/log (BLW-safe shape).
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Place in a steamer, brush with a little oil to prevent sticking.
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Steam for 10–12 minutes until set but still soft.
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Cool before giving to baby.
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For a slightly firmer texture (12–24 months old), you can fry for 1–2 minutes with a little oil.
🍽️ Adult / Family Version (Indonesian Flavor)
After the baby's portion is taken out , the remaining dough can be seasoned:
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a little salt
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low sodium soy sauce
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pepper
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fried onions
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chopped celery or spring onions
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sambal (adult)
Then bake/pan-fry briefly for a more savory taste.
❌ Not allowed for children <2 years: chili sauce, chili, excessive salty seasoning.
🍴 Texture Adjustment
🍼 Age 9–12 months (texture exploration phase)
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Nuggets should be soft & moist , easy to crush with two fingers.
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The long log shape makes it easier for babies to grip
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Avoid pan-searing for this age as it makes the surface harder.
👶👦 Age 12–24 months (self-feeding practice)
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The texture can be firmer, you can pan-sear it briefly.
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The small nugget shape is easy to hold and bite
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You can add a little cheese / thin pepper
🧠 Nutritional Benefits
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Chicken → complete protein source for growth
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Tofu → rich in calcium & vegetable protein, soft & easy to digest
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Carrots → beta-carotene for eyes & immunity
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Rice flour → helps structure without gluten, safe for baby's digestion
💡 Additional Tips
🛡️ Safety & Allergies
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Smooth tofu → oval shape for easy grip
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Chicken must be cooked thoroughly
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Egg-free → safe for babies with egg allergies
🧂 Seasoning for >12 months
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You can add a little salt to the family version
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Avoid salty sauces/heavy MSG
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Mild herbs are safe for >1 year
🧊 Storage
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Store in the refrigerator for 2 days
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Freezer up to 1 month (packs per 4–6 pcs)
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Reheat by steaming briefly to make it soft again.
❓ FAQ
1. Do these nuggets have to use eggs?
No. Tofu + rice flour is enough as a natural binder.
2. Is it safe for babies who don't have teeth yet?
Safe because the texture is soft & easy to crush gums.
3. Can it be made without rice flour?
Yes, but it will be more fragile. For finger foods, a little flour helps with the structure.
4. Can it be fried?
For baby weaning under 9 months old→ not recommended .
For families → may pan-fry lightly after baby portion is taken.
