Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
100 Special First Birthday Wishes, Quotes, and Messages for Baby Girls and Boys
Birthdays are highlights for everyone, no matter what the age. Even if the child is just a year old, the birthday still means so much to his parents and all those who know the baby. The first birthday signifies a year since the baby started to light up the lives of all those around him/her, and the parents will no doubt be thinking that the child has grown up extremely quickly in front of their own eyes.
No matter whether you are the parent, an uncle or an aunt, or simply a guest at the birthday party, you must have a wish ready for the precious child. The baby may be too young to understand what you have to say, but that doesn't really matter. Take a look at a few wishes for both, birthday boys and girls, which have been separated according to your relation to the baby.
You can always make these wishes out personally to the parents, or put them out in banners if you yourself are the parent of the child. Here are some great heart-melting birthday wishes for your baby.
Birthday Wishes for a Baby Girl
Some of the best first birthday wishes for a baby girl are given below.
For a Daughter
Unwrapping gifts, blowing out candles, and having fun; there is so much work for my precious baby girl – and you are only one!
I hope you grow up to be smart, wise and tough – however, know that you will always be a little baby to me!
You are no doubt the best thing that has ever happened to me and the best daughter anyone could ever hope for.
You are my little cutie pie. Without seeing you every single day, I would die. So, Happy Birthday to the most adorable daughter in the world!
Don’t take a nap while your birthday is going on, or the most important birthday in the life of my daughter will be gone! Happy birthday to you!
You are my special girl, so you really deserve such a special day! I hope that we are giving that to our awesome daughter!
Our first year with you has been the most special one of our lives, so thank you, precious daughter, for making us love you even more with every day.
Well, little princess, your reign over the kingdom of our hearts has reached a full year!
My baby girl, we could never give you a gift as amazing as the one you have been giving us for a year.
You are too young to remember the flavour of the cake we have made you, but we know that you will remember the love and the heart we have put into making this birthday great for you, princess.
You have graced our lives for over a year now, so thank you for all the love that you have given to us, princess!
No gift can come close to what you, our little princess, has been giving us every day, for the past 365 days. Every day with you is a priceless present for us.
Happy birthday to the sweetest one-year-old girl that we have known!
Enjoy your special day, princess, for you deserve to have a lifetime of happiness.
Watching our princess grow like this has been the best sight of our lives! Happy birthday, my baby girl.
For a Niece
Roses are red, violets are blue; today you are one, next year you’ll be two! Happy birthday, baby!
Your first year has gone away so quickly, baby! Please don’t grow up so fast!
Happy birthday my sugar plum! You are the best niece that any uncle could ask for!
May every day be special like this one is, to my beautiful baby niece!
We pray that your life continues to be a blessing like this, and your parents continue to be a blessing to you! Happy birthday, little one!
Happy birthday, baby girl! May all the years ahead of you give you as much happiness as the happiness that you have brought into our lives in the past year!
The warmest birthday wishes to my cute little niece! May you remain this carefree and happy all throughout your life!
No matter what twists and turns life throws at me, your innocent smile always wipes off the frowns from my face! Happy birthday, baby!
My little baby darling, may every year of your life be as happy-go-lucky as the past one year!
A special baby like you deserves nothing but love and happiness, and may your life always be this fulfilling!
You may be small in size and light in weight, but your presence has definitely made a mark on my heart, little niece!
A cute little baby girl like you is a rarity, so may this birthday be one to remember for the sweetest little niece I can ever think of!
I wish my pretty little niece happiness from everything you do in life, and may your life be filled with blessings! Happy birthday, baby girl!
Your smiles are more beautiful than the colourful corals of the Pacific Ocean. You are no less than an angel. Happy birthday, sweet girl! You are as magnificent as the sun. You naturally attract people with your rays of cuteness. Celebrate your birthday with joy and happiness!
Happy birthday, dear little niece! Put on your glitziest dress and your shiniest shoes, for you deserve to be treated like nothing but royalty, not just on this day, but on every day for the rest of your long life.
From a Guest
I hope for a safe, fun, and special birthday to you, baby girl! May you get everything you wish for in life, and everything you deserve!
You are the most precious gift that anyone could have given to your parents. Here’s to a wonderful little baby girl on her extremely special day!
Even though you are sweeter than sugar, there is nothing like too much of you! You make everyone around you so much happier. Here’s an extra sweet wish to you!
Enjoy your amazing holiday, for you will have to deal with academics, homework and chores real soon! Happy birthday to you!
To the most lovable and amazing baby girl, happy birthday to you! You continue to make everyone around you so proud!
Sending this birthday message to the cute little lady who has given everyone all the joy since she came into our lives! You are, no doubt, an angel!
Nothing but hugs, kisses and blessings to the cutest little baby that could ever be born! Happy birthday to you, my sweet girl!
I want to be the pioneer in giving your special wishes for your birthday every year, so happy birthday to the sweetest girl in the world!
The warmest wishes for a baby girl on her very special day. From now on, I hope to see you as you grow up day by day!
A cute little baby girl like you is a gift on earth! Your sweetness brings everyone around you joy and smiles! Happy birthday, little angel.
I’m pretty sure that you will grow up to be a wise, beautiful person just like your parents are. Happy birthday to you, sweet baby girl!
Your parents are true superheroes for taking care of such a cute baby girl. All the sleepless nights are worth it, for a cute baby girl like you! Have a wonderful birthday, sweetheart!
No matter if you are asleep or awake, your irresistible charm is always appealing to anyone. Always keep smiling like this, and have a great birthday, baby girl!
As you open your first chapter in the world, happy birthday to the sweetest child I have known!
You are a wonderful reminder to anyone that the world is filled with innocent and beauty all around. Happy birthday to you, little princess!
Birthday Wishes for a Baby Boy
Here are some amazing first birthday wishes for a baby boy:
For a Son
There’s a very special day waiting around the corner. Happy birthday to the little cutie!
May your birthday be joyful, bright and fun from the moment it starts till the second it’s done!
You may be a toddler and you really may not care, but we promise to celebrate your birthday with pomp and flair! Happy first birthday!
My son, you are turning one and it is such a special moment. You might not remember today, but we will! So happy birthday!
Have an awesome day today, you may not remember it, but we all will remember how special it is – the first of many to come!
You are an amazing baby and deserve all the best things in your life, so enjoy your first special day my special prince!
It is your first birthday today, little boy! We wish you a very special birthday and thank you for bringing so much joy to our lives.
This is a very special day, and you are one today! You may not know it yet, but you are loved by all! Happy birthday!
You are going to be a big boy soon, and we look forward to being able to see you grow up! Happy birthday, my child.
We have the best son in the world, and we all love you very much. Enjoy your day today! Happy birthday!
Hey kiddo, we wish you a great day and hope you receive some amazing presents today!
Have a rocking day, and enjoy your cake and ice-cream, my beautiful boy!
Are you ready to turn one? Ready or not, you are now one! All the best to you, my sweet little child.
We wish you many great wishes on this beautiful first birthday, and I wish you nothing but happiness in your life throughout! Happy birthday, my prince!
My son, today is your big day and I hope that you love your first birthday party that we are having today!
For a Nephew
May your first year with us be the first of many, many more to come! I know that you will fill us with as much happiness as you have, always, so happy birthday!
We can’t believe that you are one already! Have a joyful day like you always do, and may you always be successful in life!
Your birthday is not a miracle, but what you will make out of your life when you grow up sure will be – Happy 1st birthday!
No matter how much icing is there on your birthday cake, it surely cannot be as sweet as you are. Happy birthday, my little prince!
You are definitely the most amazing little thing that I have ever seen – I love you, and happy first birthday to you!
I’m so excited as your uncle to watch you try out your birthday cake for the first time – happy birthday to you!
Happy first birthday! I know you are too young to remember all this, but I really want you to know how loved you are by everyone here.
You used to have really, really tiny fingers, but you have always had a gigantic heart. Thank you so much for opening it for me. Happy birthday, prince!
I will never forget where I was a year ago when I heard the wonderful news of your arrival into this world – time flies so quickly! I am so happy to be sharing this day here with you.
I can’t believe how tall you are already! You are growing up way to fast, boy. Happy birthday to my little prince!
I know you may not know how important this day is just yet, but trust me, one day you will understand just how much you mean to me, kid.
Hope that you have an awesome first birthday! Not that you need any more sugar since you are the sweetest thing I have ever seen.
I did not think that you could get any cuter, but I was wrong, seeing you enjoy your cake! You just might be the cutest thing in the entire world – Happy birthday!
Twelve months ago I became a proud uncle to one of the cutest babies ever! Please, don’t grow too fast, and always remember to smile!
My little miracle, you have become one year old today! I hope you stay this childishly naïve and sincere all throughout your life. Happy birthday!
From a Guest
Your life is now a fairy tale, so don’t grow up too fast and let it end! Happy birthday to you, sweet baby!
You sleep carefree and do not even know that your name and face is forever imprinted in our hearts. You are our wonderful and precious child – happy birthday!
Dear baby, your life will be full of losses and findings, but I hope you never lose the smile on your face or the kindness in your heart throughout! Happy first birthday!
Happy birthday to an adorable one-year-old! You are a perfect family because you are the cutest baby, and your parents are the kindest ones too.
To hold you in my arms and to see your stunning smile is the best thing that has ever happened to me! You are truly one in a million – happy birthday!
You’ve committed the perfect crime – you have stolen all our hearts and nobody wants it back! Happy first birthday, you cute little thief!
Let your life be as beautiful as this birthday cake is – bright, sweet and unusual! Happy first birthday, you cute baby!
Cuddle-coo, sweetie-shoo, pretty-poo – I wish a happy first birthday to you. I just can’t get over how cute you are!
In only twelve more years you will become a rebellious teenager who will not be given hugs and kisses – until then, let me just cuddle you to my heart’s content! Happy birthday to you!
We can’t believe that you are already a year old! Have a joyful day always – bless you!
Happy first birthday to the best boy ever. You are loved by all those around you and are definitely going to have an awesome life in store.
Wishing you nothing but happiness on your big day today. You only turn one once, so have an amazing day! Happy birthday!
You may only be turning one, but you have already made a huge impact on the world around you. Have a great first birthday!
Dear birthday boy, when you came into this world, you made everyone around you happier. We all now gratefully look forward to another year of joy as we learn to see you grow – happy birthday to you!
You are the cutest baby in town and you look adorable even when you frown! Happy birthday to you, my man!
Funny First Birthday Wishes and Quotes
Here are some funny birthday wishes for daughters and sons!
Your first birthday is extremely special because you can have your cake with your hands, feet or face! Happy birthday!
You can make anyone dance on your fingers, with your dirty nappies and your constant squeals! Happy birthday!
Today, we want to mark our first happy year with you by stuffing our faces in front of you! Happy birthday!
Have a 'wonderful' first birthday, full of wonder!
Let us toast to more years of sleepless nights and boundless happiness!
Let’s party until the last slice of cake is eaten! Happy birthday, baby!
Turning one means that you will never have to say sorry! Keep melting hearts with your cute crying!
Hoping you shake, rattle and roll every second of your birthday!
Unwrapping gifts, blowing candles, playing games and having fun – there is so much to do on your first birthday!
Don’t take a nap on your birthday, or you will miss out on so much fun! Happy first birthday!
Where Can You Insert Birthday Wishes?
Since children can’t understand birthday wishes on their first birthday, people often don’t add any wishes when they wish them ‘happy birthday.’ However, there are a few ways you can incorporate birthday wishes, so they can be stored as mementos for the child to read when he/she is old enough to read.
1. Greeting Card
A colourful greeting card with a heartfelt birthday wish for the child can be stored in a bunch, for the child to read later on. You can even include incidents or photos and make the card interesting and fun.
2. Gift Note
You can pick out a cute gift note to stick on the gift you give the birthday boy or girl. The parents can remove and store the note carefully, before opening the present. They can even add what the gift was, behind the card.
3. Collage
You, along with a few family members or friends can make a collage with all your birthday wishes to the child. To make it more creative, you can add some pictures and stories, for the child to see he/she grows up.
These birthday quotes for a baby can be tweaked as you wish, so make someone’s day with ease!
Also Read:
Cake Ideas for Your Baby's First Birthday
Unique and Creative First Birthday Party Ideas
Amazing Return Gifts For Your Baby's First Birthday
Birthday Gift Ideas for a 1-Year-Old Baby Boy and Girl Read more
Suggested for you
Whole Grains for Baby and Children - Why and How to Introduce
Whole grains are one of the best sources of fibre, protein and carbohydrates that your child would need as a part of their healthy diet. Whole grains come in different sizes, shapes, colours and most importantly taste. There are typical ways to prepare them which are as varied as the place in which they are grown. They are also rich in vitamins and many minerals. It is widely suggested by the doctors that this food should form the major part of the energy for a child. Replacing refined ingredients with whole grains while cooking is a good way of introducing children to consume whole grains.
What are Whole Grains?
A grain of any cereal containing the parts bran, germ and endosperm is known as a whole grain. Unlike the refined cereals which contain only the endosperm, whole grains are a nutritious option for babies and older children. The outermost layer of the whole grain is known as bran. It contains the nutrients niacin, thiamin, iron, zinc and riboflavin. It is also very rich in fibre. The second layer, known as a germ, is also known to be a good source of vitamins and proteins. The third layer, known as the endosperm, is rich in protein and carbohydrate.
Why Should Whole Grains be Given to Children?
Whole grains are bursting with vitamins, antioxidants, phytochemicals and fibre which are essential for your child’s growth. The nutrients reduce the chances of developing chronic ailments such as heart disease, certain types of cancers and even diabetes. The fibre in the grains makes your child feel satiated thereby controlling snacking.
When to Introduce Whole Grains to Your Child?
This chart will guide you when to introduce whole grains to your child
Whole Grain
Age Group and Frequency
6 months
1yr
2yr
3 yr
Oats
3- 4 tbsp; 1 – 2 times a week
4 8 tbsp; once a day
1/4th cup; every day
½ cup every day
Brown rice
½ cup; 2 times a week
1 serving; 1 – 2 times a week
1 serving; 1-2 times a week
1 serving; 2- 3 times a week
Millet
½ cup; 2 times a week
1 serving; 2-3 times in a week
1 serving; 2-3 times in a week
1 serving; 2-3 times in a week
How to Introduce Whole Grains into Your Child’s Diet?
The key to introducing whole grains into your child’s food is by making a healthy choice and being mindful of the ingredients that are being used for the meals they eat.
1. Use a Good Mix of Grains
It is usually seen to benefit if you are able to mix refined grains with whole grains to your daily dishes. This would be a good way to introduce the picky eaters to a slightly heavier texture and flavour of whole grains. Nowadays, you can also find whole grain rice for baby and whole grain baby cereal in the market specifically for smaller children.
2. Healthy Baking
Try replacing the refined flours with more whole grains like spelt, rye or whole wheat while baking. Is your child fussy? Replace half of the quantities initially to retain that familiar flavour and texture.
3. Opt for Convenient Food which is Not Processed
With our busy lifestyles, it's easier to find solace in fast food. But try not to go that way, instead buy food that is convenient and healthy too. Introduce your children to quinoa bread or rye crackers or cereal bars made of sesame seeds.
4. Give Your Day a Healthy Start
Breakfast is the best time to start your day on a healthy note. Oatmeal , whole grain bread for baby, or buckwheat pancakes give your child the much-needed boost to carry out all their activities throughout the day. Some stores even sell whole grain baby oatmeal for smaller kids.
5. Use Your Creativity To Add A Side Dish
Introducing children to creative side dishes while they enjoy their favourite meals are a great way to get them to eat some whole grains. Whole grain bread with a soup or stew is a very good option for a wholesome meal.
Easy and Healthy Whole Grain Recipes
With increasing options of easy junk food that are available outside, it becomes a daunting task to make your kids to eat healthy and homemade meals. Encouraging your child to eat whole grain food helps them develop a healthy habit from a very young age. We will share with you handy tips which will make even the pickiest eaters fall in love with whole grain food.
1. Oats Porridge
This is one of the best whole grain recipes for toddlers.
Ingredients:
Rolled oats: ½ cup
Milk: 1 cup
Sugar: as per taste
Method:
In a pan, mix the oats and water together with milk.
Put the pan on the stove and heat it on a low or medium flame.
Add sugar as per taste.
Keep stirring.
The mixture will turn thick in consistency.
Remove from heat and serve hot.
2. Plain Khichdi
This is a delicious one-pot meal for your baby.
Ingredients:
Rice: 2 tbsp
Moong Dal: 2 tbsp
Salt: As per taste
Turmeric: 1 pinch
Method:
Wash the rice and dal under running water.
Put all the ingredients in the cooker.
Place the cooker on the stove and put it on medium flame.
Cook it for 3-4 whistles.
Rest it for 5 minutes and serve with a tsp of ghee.
For older children, these recipes can be a healthy alternative.
3. Moong Dal Khichdi with Vegetables
Vegetables are a nice addition to Moong Dal Khichdi as they provide the necessary energy to your baby.
Ingredients:
Rice: ½ cup
Moong Dal: ½ cup
Salt: as per taste
Turmeric: 1 pinch
Ghee: 1tsp
Cumin: 1 Tsp
Mixed cut vegetables: ½ cup (carrot, beans, cauliflower)
Method:
Wash the rice and dal under running water
Heat the cooker on the stove.
Put the ghee and cumin seeds in it.
When the spluttering of the cumin seeds start, add all the vegetables and saute them.
Add the rice and dal and ½ cup of water.
Cook it for 3-4 whistles.
Remove from stove and serve hot with a tsp of ghee on top (optional).
4. Idli
These are soft and fluffy pancakes with or without stuffing.
Ingredients:
Dosa batter: 1 packet
Salt to taste
Oil/Ghee: To grease the idli moulds
Method:
Grease the idli moulds with ghee
Fill the pot with little water and put it on the stove.
Give a nice whisk to the dosa batter and mix salt.
Pour 1 ladle full in the idli mould.
Let it steam for 10 mins.
Insert a knife in the idlis and see if it comes out clean.
Remove the mould from the steamer and let it stand for 5 mins.
Serve hot with coconut chutney.
Healthy food is a key to overall growth and development of a child. We should try to increase the intake of whole grains in our children’s diet gradually. Remember to seek the advice of your paediatrician before you make any changes or introduce any new food in your child’s diet.
Also Read:
Best Iron Rich Foods for Kids
When and How to Introduce Bread to Infants
Nutrition for Children & Age Wise Diet Plan Read more
Suggested for you
Pomegranate Juice for Male and Female Fertility
Are you thinking about expanding the family? You may want to consider trying a superfood like a pomegranate that can boost fertility in both men and women. The pomegranate is considered a symbol of fertility in many cultures. It contains several nutrients that improve reproductive health and fertility in both men and women.
Pomegranates are an excellent source of carbohydrates, dietary fibre, folate, vitamins C, E, K, B1, B2, B3, B5, and B6, and essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, and zinc. They also contain phytochemicals like polyphenols like punicalagins which boost immunity and prevent cancer.
How Does Pomegranate Improve Fertility in Women?
The pomegranate juice – female fertility connection is well known as the juice of the pomegranate contains folic acid, and antioxidants that boost blood flow to the uterus, help in conception and prevent birth defects in the foetus. Here are how pomegranates boost fertility in women and improve reproductive health:
1. Contain Phytoestrogens
Pomegranate seeds contain plant oestrogens that can prevent diseases of the reproductive system, such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and cancers of the uterus, ovaries, and breasts. Thus, pomegranates improve the overall reproductive health of women.
2. Contain Folic Acid
Folic acid is an important B vitamin that is necessary for conception and prevention of congenital disabilities in the foetus. Pomegranates are an excellent source of folic acid.
3. Keeps Uterus Healthy
Pomegranate increases blood flow to the uterus, thus helping to keep the uterine lining healthy. A healthy uterine lining is necessary for the embryo to implant itself successfully in the uterus. Thus, pomegranate also helps increase the chances of conception.
4. Contains Flavonoids and Antioxidants
Flavonoids and antioxidants in pomegranate boost immunity and prevent infection and disease. They also help prevent tissue damage and cancer. This helps the reproductive system remain healthy and fertile.
How Does Pomegranate Boost Fertility in Men?
Pomegranate and male fertility are interlinked as regular consumption of pomegranates have been found to improve fertility in men. Here are how pomegranates boost fertility in men:
1. Improve Sperm Count Quality
Pomegranates contain nutrients like zinc that improve sperm count, quality, and mobility. Zinc also is important for improving the body’s immune response. All this helps in increasing the chances of conception.
2. Reduces Erectile Dysfunction
Pomegranate juice has been found to improve sexual performance and reduce erectile dysfunction in men. The juice stimulates the walls of the blood vessels to relax and widen, thus increasing blood flow. This helps men maintain an erection for a longer duration, thus improving sexual performance and reducing erectile dysfunction.
3. Promotes Prostate Health
Pomegranate contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds that prevent inflammation that causes an enlarged prostate. The prostate gland is important for reproductive health as it produces a fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. The polyphenols in pomegranate also reduce the risk of prostate cancer, thus improving reproductive health in men.
Healthy Pomegranate Recipes To Try while Trying to Conceive
Pomegranate juice fertility benefits are well known. Regularly consuming pomegranate seeds or juice has been found to improve fertility in both men and women. To include pomegranate in your daily diet, here are some recipes that you can try:
1. Pomegranate Lassi
Pomegranate Lassi is an Indian recipe which is both nutritious and tasty.
Ingredients
Half a cup of pomegranate seeds, a pinch of cardamom powder, a cup of thick yoghurt, two tablespoons of honey, a pinch of salt, half teaspoon rose water, a few pistachios and pomegranate seeds for garnishing.
How to Prepare
Grind the pomegranate seeds in a mixer and sieve the juice to remove the crushed seeds. Put the pomegranate juice, yoghurt, cardamom powder, rose water, and honey in a bowl and blend them with a hand blender or whisk, until froth forms on top. Pour this into glasses and garnish with a few pistachios and pomegranate seeds sprinkled on top. Serve chilled.
2. Pomegranate and Chickpea Curry
This is a healthy and nutritious recipe that can be eaten as a snack or a side-dish.
Ingredients
200g dried chickpeas soaked overnight, 100g chana dal soaked overnight, 2 chopped onions, 2 tablespoons sunflower oil, quarter inch grated ginger, 2 crushed black cardamoms, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 cloves, 1 teaspoon garam masala, ½ teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 chopped green chilli, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons crushed pomegranate powder, 50 g pomegranate seeds, handful of chopped coriander.
How to Prepare
Cover the chickpeas with water in a saucepan and bring to boil. Cook until they are tender. Drain and keep aside. Heat oil in a heavy pan. Add cumin seeds, onions, ginger, spices, garam masala, pomegranate powder, chilli, and salt. Cook for a few minutes. Cook the chana dal in water until it is tender, drain and keep aside. Add this to the pan along with the chickpeas and cook for a few more minutes until the ingredients are heated through and thoroughly mixed. Once cooked, garnish with pomegranate seeds and coriander.
Pomegranate is a nutritious superfood that is known to improve reproductive health and fertility of both men and women. Including pomegranate in your regular diet has vast health benefits. It can fight cancer and ageing, improve fertility and immunity, and regulate blood pressure.
Also Read: Home Remedies to Increase Fertility Read more
Suggested for you
6 Nutritious Steamed Food Recipes That You Can Make for Your Family
Our nutritionists, doctors, and elders always tell us to follow a healthy lifestyle. We also know it well that we should eat nutritious food and give up junk food if we want to stay healthy and fit. Processed foods contain preservatives, sugars, and unhealthy calories, and eating home-cooked food is the best bet if we want to stay healthy, but eating steamed food can be healthier. Steaming food is the simplest way to cook food. There are several other benefits of eating steamed food which we have discussed in this article.
How is Steamed Food Beneficial for Your Health?
Steamed food has many health benefits which are listed below:
1. It Helps Lower Cholesterol Levels
Steaming foods like lamb and pork can remove their fat content. It is difficult to separate the fat from the meat by other methods of cooking like grilling, frying, or roasting. Eating steamed food, which is devoid of fats, means less calorie intake, which in turn can control your cholesterol levels. Also, since steaming does not require the use of oil, you have a healthier and lighter meal on the table. It is a wonderful idea to include steamed foods in your weight loss diet.
2. It Helps Preserve the Colour, Flavour, and Fibre
Steaming is a method of cooking which helps retain the original flavour, colour, and texture of the vegetable as closely as possible. What you get is the entire nutritive value of the vegetable along with its rich colour and texture. Adding spices to the water could lend some additional flavours too.
3. It Helps Retain Micronutrients
Conventional cooking methods tend to drain a vegetable of its vitamin and mineral content. Steaming ensures that biotin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, Vitamin C, B12, niacin, thiamine, and vitamin B are retained in the vegetable. Also, minerals like calcium, potassium, phosphorous, and zinc remain intact when you steam the vegetables.
4. It is a Simple Way of Cooking
Steaming food by stacking layers over each other can help you save precious time in the kitchen. It is also much simpler because there isn’t a lot of preparation involved and you can get most of it done with a single heat source.
Tips and Tricks to Steam Your Food
Don't think that steamed food is boring and bland. You can add a little punch to your steamed food with a few handy tips:
1. Try the Classic Taste
Add a dash of olive oil, salt, and peppercorns in a pan and toss the veggies in it. Then steam in a steamer. Be sure to use extra virgin oil for a good flavour.
2. Use Herbs
You can add whole parsley, thyme, rosemary, basil, or lavender to the food before steaming. Remove them before serving the dish. Steaming chicken this way can make it absolutely flavoursome.
3. Sweet Tooth Cooking
To enhance the flavour of naturally sweet vegetables, you can add a bit of balsamic vinegar or red wine to the food before steaming. You could do this for steaming fish and meats too.
4. Make it Citrusy
Add a dash of lemon juice to your steamed food to get a unique flavour. You could use lemon slices while steaming vegetables to get the same effect too.
5. Make it Exotic
Mix in a little soy sauce, sesame seeds, and some white pepper to your steamed food to give it an exotic flavour.
Healthy and Tasty Steamed Food Recipes that You Can Try at Home
Here are some dishes with the recipes that you can try at home. Steamed food too can taste yummy so try them on your own:
1. Steamed Fish
This is a simple yet classic recipe for you to start with your steamed food diet.
Ingredients
Medium-sized Fish - 1
Ginger strips
Soaked black mushrooms
Light Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil - 1 teaspoon
Oyster Sauce - 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper as per taste
Sliced stalk of spring onion
Time
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 Minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 2 portions.
Method
Wash and clean the fish and put it on a steaming tray.
Add seasonings like salt and pepper.
Mix the oyster sauce, sesame oil, and soy sauce together.
Heat a pan and lightly stir fry the mushrooms.
Add the sauce mix and stir.
Pour this mix over the fish and add ginger slices.
Steam the fish for 10 minutes and remove when cooked.
Garnish with spring onions and serve.
2. Steamed Prawns in Garlic Sauce
This lip-smacking recipe is a healthy way to eat seafood.
Ingredients
Tiger prawns - 4
Garlic - 1 cup
Vegetable oil - 1 teaspoon
Spring onions - chopped
Cooking Time
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 portions.
Method
Slice the prawns.
Finely chop garlic and sauté in oil.
Coat the prawns well with the garlic sauce.
Place in a steamer and cook for 10 minutes.
Garnish with chopped spring onions and serve warm.
3. Steamed Lemon Garlic Chicken
You can steam chicken breasts and serve it in dinner.
Ingredients
Single breasts of chicken - 1
Cloves of garlic - 2
Lemon - 1
Springs of fresh thyme
Rock salt to taste
Black pepper
Chilli flakes
Total Cook Time
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 2 portions.
Method
Prepare the steamer.
Mince the garlic and mix it with salt, pepper, and chilli flakes.
Season both portions of the chicken breast.
Add lemon zest over both chicken breasts and sprinkle with thyme.
Spray a bit of oil over the chicken and steam for 10 minutes or until cooked.
Serve with baby potatoes or kale.
4. Patra
This is one of the classic steamed food recipes of Indian origin. It is healthy and yummy!
Ingredients
Colocasia leaves - 4
Batter
Gram flour- 1 cup
Tamarind paste - 1/2 teaspoon
Chili powder - 2 teaspoons
Asafoetida - A pinch
Roasted cumin - A teaspoon
Sugar - ½ teaspoon
Tempering
Oil - 20 ml
Mustard seeds - 1/2 teaspoon
Sesame Seeds - 1/2 teaspoon
Cooking Time
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings
You will get 5 portions from this recipe.
Method
Wash the leaves thoroughly and keep aside.
Mix all the other ingredients required to make the batter.
Place the leaf on the table and smooth it out. Spread a layer of batter on the leaf and cover it with another leaf.
Now spread another thin layer on the second leaf and cover. Repeat till you have used all the leaves up.
Fold in the sides of the leaves, and roll it in lengthwise. Make a tight roll.
Steam the rolls for 30 mins.
Cool and cut into slices.
Temper the seeds and pour it over the slices of patra.
5. Bhapaa Aloo
Steamed food recipes are vegetarian in nature are not that hard to find. Indian food has a host of steamed foods like bhapaa aloo which you can serve with roti or rice.
Ingredients
Small potatoes - 200 grams
Mustard oil -2 teaspoon
5 spice mix- ½ teaspoon
Dry red chilis - 2
Mustard paste - ½ teaspoon
Hung curd-1 teaspoon
Desiccated coconut paste - ½ teaspoon spoon
Green chilli paste
A pinch of turmeric powder
Lime juice - 2 teaspoons
Banana leaves - 2
Cooking Time
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Servings
The recipe serves 4.
Method
Peel and wash the potatoes and boil them partially.
Heat oil and add the 5-spice mix with red chilis to it. Pour the mix over the potatoes and let it rest.
Prepare a marinade with mustard paste, green chilli paste, coconut paste, curd, and turmeric powder.
Add the potatoes to the marinade.
Add salt, lemon juice, and mix once more.
Place the potatoes on a steel plate, place a banana leaf and steam for 6-10 minutes.
6. Steamed Vegetables
You can have steamed vegetables for breakfast or any time you want.
Ingredients
Carrot sliced thinly -1
Broccoli florets - 1 cup
Cauliflower florets - 1 cup
Mushrooms - 1 cup
Lemon juice - 2 teaspoons
Butter - 1 tablespoon
Salt and pepper
Cooking Time
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 2 portions.
Method
Cut all the vegetables and wash them.
Steam all the vegetables with salt for 10 minutes.
Remove and set aside.
In a pan, heat the butter.
Toss the vegetables in the butter and sprinkle pepper on it.
Add lime juice and mix well before serving.
FAQs
Some questions about steamed food are discussed below:
1. Is Steamed Food Healthier Than Boiled Food?
Steamed food retains flavour, fibre, nutrition, and texture up to 81% while boiled food retains only 34% of flavonoids and nutrients. Hence, it is better to consume steam food.
2. What Are Some Common Foods That Can Be Steamed?
Common foods that can be steamed are:
Green leafy vegetables, momos, fruits.
Idlis, Dhokla, Patra, and pulses.
Eggs, chicken, salmon, and other meat.
3. How Long Should You Steam Vegetables?
All vegetables will have different cooking times depending on their thickness and size. Below we have mentioned some of the common vegetables and the time they take to get steamed:
Asparagus - 8 to10 minutes
Beans - 5 to7 minutes
Beetroot - 40 to 60 minutes
Bok choy stalks - 6 minutes
Bok choy leaves - 2 minutes
Broccoli florets - 5 minutes
Cauliflower florets - 5 minutes
Sliced Carrots - 4 to 5 minutes
Peas - 5 minutes
Spinach- 5 minutes
4. Which Kinds of Steamers Can You Use for Steaming Food?
The most popular types of steamers available are:
Metal collapsible steamers
Metal insert steamers
Bamboo steamers
Complicated cooking recipes deter people from making efforts and trying out new recipes. Steamed food comes to the rescue as it can be cooked easily and tastes delicious. So start on those steamed food recipes and eat your way to health.
Also Read:
How to Make Sugar Free Kaju Katli
Homemade Sugar Free Ice Cream Recipes
Healthy and Tasty Dry Fruit Recipes Read more
Suggested for you
The Difficult Phase Post Delivery - What Postpartum Depression did to Me
When I opened my eyes I saw my hubby and my in-laws standing at a corner of the room and discussing a meal, my newborn was sleeping quietly in the crib and I found myself lying almost motionless.
I tried to get up but could not and then my hubby noticed me. They all came smiling towards me and checked whether I was feeling better. Well, with the IV, catheter and the compression wraps attached to my body, I didn't feel any good but I managed to smile.
The hospital bed was amazing and it helped me sit straight with just the push of a button. When my body moved I realised a strange emptiness in my abdomen and it felt like all the organs inside were colliding with each other. Though it now sounds like a horror movie, that is exactly how I felt.
The nurse came to check my temperature and also asked me to point out one of the five smileys based on my pain and discomfort. I was amused to see the five smileys ranging from the happiest to the saddest and pointed out the sad one. She gave a few oral pain killers and showed me a button which I can press whenever I needed her.
I felt like sleeping again but the thought of moving my abdomen scared me. Soon my lunch arrived and I was so glad as I really wanted to eat something. Surprisingly the hospital food was good but before I could finish my lunch my baby woke up crying. Probably it was his lunch time too!
I had to call the nurse to help me with my baby. She taught me the football hold position for nursing which doesn't apply any pressure in the abdomen. She placed a number of pillows around me to make me comfortable and soon my baby was asleep again.
She helped in lowering the bed so that I could sleep and as I tried to move my body I realised it would take a long time to recover completely.
The narcotic painkillers made me sleep like dead but it was difficult when I had to wake up so many times to nurse my baby. I forced myself every time thinking that next day things might get better but I was wrong.
Next morning my catheter was removed and I was asked to walk to the bathroom. Just the thought of getting out of the bed freaked me out. I grasped the nurse tightly and took tiny steps. It was in the bathroom I realised I was bleeding so heavily and the sight made me upset.
Things worsened when I started feeling immense pain while nursing my baby. The nurse helped me with cold gel and cream that were temporarily soothing but I was terrified every time I prepared myself for nursing. I ended the day pointing out the saddest smiley.
The only source of joy was watching my baby and his little movements! He would open his big twinkling eyes to look at me. Watching his dimples when he smiled was pure bliss!
Next day came with another shock when my doctor suggested me to start walking. That was the last thing I wanted to do but the doctor insisted saying it would help in bowel movement and normal digestion. I could hardly take a few steps and found it very difficult to walk without support.
Later in the day, I was asked to take a shower. I was apprehensive about water touching the incision and so was reluctant about it. However, they helped me take a quick shower with soap and water and surprisingly it didn't hurt my wound.
I felt much better later that day and spent the rest of the time walking, sleeping and getting used to nursing my baby. The nurse gave a detailed demonstration to my hubby on how to change diapers and how to bathe a baby and he seemed to enjoy the new learnings! It was such a delight to watch my little one take a bath for the first time.
Next day I was discharged from the hospital. I had to ask for a wheelchair because I was still not able to walk without support. I also placed pillows around me to sit comfortably in the car. The ride back home was not easy and every bump reminded me of the incision.
The good part about returning home was being surrounded by family members and the bad part, well, there were many. I missed the hospital bed the most. There were no hand rails to support me to get up and soon it became a nightmare. It was difficult to even turn to my side and every time I applied pressure I feared that the stitches will come out.
You don't realize but you become more active the moment you leave the hospital. At home I started taking calls and messages, walking around to have meals together, walking to the bathroom, sitting on the couch and all these activities left me exhausted completely. That left me bleeding heavily again. I also had my bowel movement and it was no fun. Next day onwards I was advised to take stool softeners along with the painkillers.
I found myself nursing my baby every two hours and was almost awake the entire night. That worsened things further and I had to visit a lactation consultant. She suggested using a pump so that the milk supply doesn't stop and that was much relief to me.
The following week was tiring and depressing. Nursing a baby is no picnic especially when all you want to do is take rest and recover fast. My baby cried all night and also kept his daddy and granny awake.
I found it very difficult to handle and sometimes cried when nobody watched. I didn't feel like taking painkillers anymore and wanted to run away from everyone. I wanted my normal life back.
My doctor explained Postpartum Depression to me and encouraged me to stay strong. I stayed calm as I was aware that it's a temporary phase and everything will be fine soon. That is exactly how it turned out to be.
Within a month I was all smiles! No more medicines, no more nursing blues, I got my physical strength back and also my confidence. It was then that I started enjoying my motherhood.
The difficult phase post delivery would have killed me if there was no family support. New moms need lots of love, care and encouragement. Holding your newborn in your arms will bring back all the happiness to your life.
If you are also going through a similar phase, just stay calm, it will soon be over and you will find a stronger, happier and a new You!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
Read more
Suggested for you
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert water leak from baby eye....what is that
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. blocked naso lacrimal duct kk. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. loop of cord is seen round the neck in growth scan is it a problem at the time of delivery
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. single Loop okay no problem wait. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Puja Kumari has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert My baby is 4months old he is having fever after vaccination . how many days would the fever remain? can I give him medicine
Puja Kumari
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
A. vomiting ka kya karan ho sakta
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert
Can we have sex during pregnancy and is it safe?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. okay no problem if you don't have any risk factors ko. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. Dr meri baby 12 month running hai uska weight 6 kg hai uska growth nahi ho pa Raha hai to kya kare or over active hai
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. ok see c. if the baby is not having proper height and weight it means that baby is having failure to thrive baby needs investigations like TSH and other related test to find out the reason
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. mere twins baby hai boy nd girl one month 8 days when I check eye and ear which month
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. For the query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Online consultation can also be taken jjand the expert will give you the proper answer .
Check out this new Memory
dr preeti
Guardian of a 7 yr old girl and 3 yr 2 m old boy
New Memory
#stylishbaby #babyhug
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Shweta Sharma
Mom of a 1 yr 4 m old boy
New Memory
#babyphotochallenge
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Firstcry user
New Memory
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
PRIYA MALL
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
2 mins ago
Today we made it to 3rd trimester!:)
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Swapnel
Father of a 2 m old boy
2 mins ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive