Eid-Al-Adha is a joyous occasion celebrated by Muslims around the world. It marks the end of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, and as families gather to observe this special festival, feasting on delicious meals is an integral part of the celebration!
In this article, we’ll run through some child and toddler-friendly adaptations of popular Eid-Al-Adha dishes to make it easier for you to ensure that the festive cuisine is accessible and enjoyable for the little ones. While traditional Eid recipes are cherished for their rich flavours and cultural significance, introducing child-friendly versions adds a touch of excitement and encourages young ones to actively participate in the festivities.
These adaptations take into consideration the preferences and dietary needs of children while preserving the essence of traditional flavours and symbolism that make Eid-Al-Adha a special time for families.
Child-Friendly Biryani
Biryani is a fragrant and flavourful rice dish that originated in South Asia. It has gained huge popularity across various Muslim communities and is a staple during festive occasions like Eid! The combination of aromatic basmati rice, tender meat or vegetables, and a blend of spices creates a delicious dish for people of all ages to enjoy.
Biryani Ingredients:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 kg chicken or vegetables (for vegetarian option)
- 2 onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons biryani masala
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 cup plain yoghourt
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- Whole spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander and mint leaves for garnish
Biryani Adaptations to be Child and Toddler Friendly:
- Reduce the spice level by using a mild biryani masala or reducing the amount used.
- Dice the chicken or vegetables into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easier eating.
- Separate a portion of the biryani without any spices or garnishes for toddlers who prefer milder flavours.
Child-Friendly Sheer Khurma (Vermicelli Pudding)
Sheer Khurma is a rich and creamy dessert that holds a special place in Eid celebrations. The name translates to "milk with dates" in Persian, and it is made by cooking vermicelli noodles in milk along with dates, nuts, and aromatic spices. This indulgent and sweet pudding is often served as a symbol of prosperity and joy during Eid.
Ingredients
- 1 cup vermicelli noodles
- 1 litre milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped dates
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- Ghee or butter for frying vermicelli
Child-Friendly Sheer Khurma Recipe
- Use smaller vermicelli noodles or break regular ones into shorter lengths for easier eating and less chance of choking.
- Reduce the amount of nuts and chop them finely to prevent choking hazards.
- Serve a smaller portion with less sugar for toddlers.
Chicken Kebabs
Chicken kebabs are another popular savoury dish that are enjoyed during Eid festivities. These flavourful skewers are made from ground chicken blended with aromatic spices, herbs, and onions. When grilled to perfection, they offer a delicious taste that appeals to both children and adults, making them a crowd-pleasing appetisers or main course!
Chicken Kebab Ingredients:
- 500g ground chicken
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
- Salt to taste
- Oil for grilling
Child and Toddler-Friendly Chicken Kebabs:
- Shape the chicken mixture into smaller, bite-sized kebabs for easier handling.
- Reduce the amount of spices or use milder versions for a less spicy flavour.
- Serve with a side of yoghurt or a mild dip for dipping the kebabs.
- Serve off the sharp skewer to avoid accidents.
Child-Friendly Fruit Chaat
Fruit chaat is a refreshing and vibrant fruit salad that is commonly prepared during Eid. This colourful medley combines a variety of fresh fruits, such as apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes, with a tangy and sweet dressing. It provides a burst of natural flavours, serving as a refreshing addition to the feast.
Ingredients:
- Assorted fruits (such as apples, oranges, bananas, grapes, pomegranate seeds)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Chaat masala (optional)
- Chopped mint leaves for garnish
Child and Toddler Fruit chaat Adaptation:
- Cut the fruits into small, bite-sized pieces for easy consumption, and cut grapes in half
- Leave out the chaat masala for a milder flavour.
- Serve the fruit chaat as a colourful fruit salad without any added sauces or seasonings for toddlers.
Child-Friendly Coconut Barfi
Coconut barfi, also known as coconut fudge, is a popular sweet treat enjoyed during Eid festivities. Made from grated coconut, condensed milk, and flavoured with cardamom, this delectable dessert has a rich and creamy texture. It is often garnished with chopped nuts, adding a tasty crunch to the sweet flavours!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups desiccated coconut
- 1 cup condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Ghee or butter for greasing
Child and Toddler Adaptation:
- Shape the coconut mixture into smaller, child-friendly shapes like balls or squares.
- Leave out the nuts if there are concerns about choking hazards or allergies.
Child-Friendly Eid Biscuits (Melting Moments)
Eid biscuits, also known as melting moments, hold a significant place in Eid celebrations. In the days leading up to Eid, families gather in kitchens, engaging in the tradition of baking these treats together. It’s the perfect chance for generations to come together, with grandparents passing down their secret recipes and baking techniques to younger family members!
Eid biscuits are not only a tasty treat, but they also hold a deeper symbolism within Eid celebrations. They are often prepared as a gesture of hospitality and generosity, with families exchanging trays of these biscuits with their neighbours, friends, and relatives to show gratitude and community ties!
Ingredients
- 250 grams butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup icing sugar
- 1/4 cup oil
- 1 1 /2-2 cups plain flour, approx
- 1/2 cup cornflour
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
Child and Toddler-Friendly Melting Moment Biscuits:
With melting moments, the fun is all in the decoration! Opt for decorations that pose no choking hazard, and avoid any hard-boiled sweets or chewy toppings.
To keep things safe and healthy for the little ones, reduce the amount of sugar and instead add in some dried or fruit, such as dates/apricots/sultanas for some natural sweetness. This also gives it a nice dash of colour too!
With so many delicious dishes to enjoy on Eid, these are just a few to get you started and ensure you have some toddler-friendly options available for the little ones. If you’re hosting this Eid or struggling with the costs involved in the celebrations, check out our guide to celebrating Eid on a budget .