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Sardine Rice Balls 🐟🍙
These Sardine Rice Balls are a hidden gem for baby-led weaning. Made with just sardines, rice, and avocado, they’re soft, nutritious, budget-friendly, and easy for little hands to grab.
Benefits for Babies
- Very easy to make – mash, mix, and shape.
- Only 3 ingredients with no added salt.
- Budget-friendly pantry staples.
- Highly nutritious and filling.
- Soft texture, perfect for early eaters and BLW.
Can Sardines Be an Allergy?
Fish is a common allergen, so introduce sardines with care. Offer a small amount and observe your baby for at least 2 hours. Avoid introducing other new foods the same day.
Always consult your pediatrician if there’s a family history of food allergies. Most babies tolerate sardines very well, and they can become a regular, nutrient-dense food.
Nutritional Benefits
Sardines: Rich in omega-3s for brain and eye development, plus vitamin D, calcium, iron, and protein. Low in mercury.
Avocado: Provides healthy fats, fiber, potassium, and vitamin E, and helps bind the rice balls.
White rice: Easy to digest, soft, and a great energy source. Short-grain or sushi rice works best.
Ingredients
- 4–5 pieces of sardines (canned in water or olive oil)
- ½ avocado
- ⅔ cup cooked white rice
- Optional: squirt of lemon juice
Directions
- In a bowl, mash the sardines and avocado.
- Add the cooked rice and mix until combined.
- Scoop and shape into balls or patties.
- Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions by Age
7–9 months: Large soft balls or flattened patties.
9–12 months: Smaller balls or bite-sized pieces.
12+ months: Serve with mayo + lemon, or low-sodium soy sauce / coconut aminos.
Storage Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Freezing is not recommended, as the fish flavor intensifies.
