Whitebait
Whitebait are tiny, young fish eaten whole, popular across Asia as a baby food from around 6 months. Because they are eaten bones and all, they provide an exceptional calcium boost. Their small size and soft texture make them one of the easiest fish options for babies.
How to serve
Steam or pan-fry fresh whitebait without oil until cooked through, then mash or puree into congee. For dried whitebait, soak, rinse well, then simmer until soft and blend into porridge.
Finely chop cooked whitebait and mix into rice, noodles, or egg dishes.
Serve lightly pan-fried whitebait as finger food, or stir into fried rice and vegetable dishes.
Nutrition
Excellent source of calcium (from the edible bones), protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. Also provides phosphorus, vitamin D, and selenium. The whole-fish nutrition profile makes whitebait one of the most nutrient-dense fish choices for babies.
Good to know
Whitebait is a fish product and should be treated as a potential allergen. Introduce carefully and watch for any allergic reactions. Fresh whitebait should smell clean and oceanic, not fishy. Dried whitebait should be soaked and rinsed before use.
Contains: fish
Tip
Dried whitebait can be ground into a fine powder and sprinkled onto congee or other foods as a natural calcium and umami supplement. Rinse dried whitebait well before use to reduce saltiness.
