Allergen note
Pea allergy is uncommon, but peas are legumes, so children allergic to peanut, lentils or chickpeas occasionally react. When you add split peas from 12 months, offer a small portion the first time and watch for hives, swelling or vomiting.
How to serve
From 12 months, serve cooked split peas as a thick soup or dal, as a smooth spread on toast like Greek fava, or stirred into rice and vegetables. Thin the purée with a little water or milk so it coats a spoon rather than sticking.
Preparation
Rinse split peas and pick out any stones; soaking is optional. Simmer for 45–60 minutes until they collapse into a thick purée, adding water as needed. Skip salt, stock cubes and ham or bacon, and season with onion, carrot or mild herbs.
Texture and choking risk
Well-cooked split peas break down into a soft mash, but undercooked ones stay hard, and a very thick purée can be sticky to swallow. Cook them until completely soft, loosen the texture with water, and have your child eat seated and supervised.
Sources: cdc.gov · cdc.gov · healthychildren.org · healthychildren.org · nhs.uk · nhs.uk
Starting ages are typical guidance for healthy, full-term babies who show signs of readiness. Your paediatrician may advise differently, especially where there is a family history of allergy.
Track first tastes and reactions
Log when your child first tries split peas, note any reaction and see it in the allergen tracker.
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