To portion sabzi for a toddler and a teen from the same preparation, cook the sabzi with minimal spices and salt initially. Then, before serving, set aside the toddler's portion and add extra spices and salt to the remaining sabzi for the teen.
Preparing meals for different age groups can be tricky, especially when it comes to spice levels and portion sizes. Here's a step-by-step guide to portioning sabzi effectively:
Preparation: Start by preparing the sabzi as you normally would, but hold back on adding too much salt, chili powder, or other strong spices. Use mild spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander in small quantities.
Cooking: Cook the sabzi until it's tender and the flavors have melded. Ensure all vegetables are cooked thoroughly, especially for the toddler.
Portioning: Once the sabzi is cooked, immediately portion out the amount needed for the toddler into a separate bowl or container. This portion should remain as is, with minimal spices.
Adjusting for the Teen: To the remaining sabzi, add extra spices and salt according to the teen's preference. You can add chili powder, garam masala, or any other spices they enjoy. Taste and adjust as needed.
Serving: Serve the toddler's portion as is, and the teen's portion with the added spices. You can also adjust the texture for the toddler by mashing the vegetables slightly if needed.
When introducing new vegetables to a toddler, offer them one at a time to identify any potential allergies or sensitivities. This also helps them develop a taste for individual flavors before combining them in complex dishes.