What if rice cereal isn’t the only way—or even the best way—to start your baby’s food journey? For generations, Western parents have leaned heavily on predictable staples like mashed bananas or pureed peas. But around the world, many cultures offer babies their first taste of solid food in much more surprising—and surprisingly nourishing—ways. These choices aren’t just about taste; they reflect deep cultural values, family traditions, and a powerful belief in feeding babies real, diverse food from day one.
Here are five unexpected first foods from different corners of the globe that may inspire you to think differently about what goes on your baby’s spoon.
In Japan, one of the most traditional first foods is okayu, a soft, watery rice porridge made by simmering rice in excess water. But what’s surprising isn’t the porridge itself—it’s what sometimes comes with it.
Japanese parents often add small amounts of dashi broth, made from kombu seaweed or bonito flakes, giving babies an early introduction to umami flavor. This foundational taste is crucial in Japanese cuisine, and exposing babies to it early is believed to help expand their palate and reduce pickiness later.
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