Lemongrass for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve lemongrass to your baby, by age.

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Safety Information

Allergen Risk

Very Low (1/5)

Choking Hazard

Low (2/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Lemongrass to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

For babies 6-9 months, lemongrass should only be used to infuse flavor and not served whole, as the fibrous, tough stalk poses a moderate risk for gagging or difficulty swallowing. Instead, crush the stalk with the back of a knife and add it to soups, stews, or broths to gently flavor food before discarding the stalks before serving. Purees or mashed foods can be infused with lemongrass by simmering the stalk in the cooking liquid and removing it before blending. Never offer pieces or rings of lemongrass at this age.

Serving Instructions

For babies 6-9 months, use lemongrass solely to infuse foods and never serve it whole, as it is not digestible and may cause gagging. Add a crushed stalk to a batch of soup, stew, or puree and remove it before serving. Babies need about 60–90g (2–3 oz) of solid food per meal at this stage, paired with a source of iron (such as pureed meat or lentils) and healthy fats, plus a gentle flavor like lemongrass for interest.

How to Serve Lemongrass to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

Continue to use lemongrass as a flavor infusion rather than a whole ingredient. The tough stalk is not safe for chewing at this age and is difficult to digest. Crush and cook the stalk with other foods (like grains, soups, or meats), then remove completely before serving. For toddlers beginning to experiment with new textures, a very small amount of finely grated or minced lemongrass can be added to dishes, but ensure it is extremely fine and well-cooked to minimize stringiness. Always supervise closely and avoid serving chunks or slices.

Serving Instructions

Lemongrass continues to be best for flavoring only through this age range. Remove all visible lemongrass before serving. Offer with nutrient-dense meals—include iron-rich foods (meat, beans, tofu) and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Typical toddler portions are 90–120g (3–4 oz) of food per meal.

How to Serve Lemongrass to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

From 18 months on, lemongrass can continue to be used to infuse meals with aroma and taste, but be mindful that the stalk remains quite tough and fibrous. For older toddlers with improved chewing skills, a very small amount of finely minced, cooked lemongrass can be cautiously introduced into foods like patties, stir fries, or rice. Always ensure the pieces are minuscule, soft, and mixed well into the dish. Lemongrass stalks or rings should still not be served on their own until chewing and swallowing skills are fully mature. Always remove the whole stalk before serving infused foods.

Serving Instructions

Lemongrass can be used in small, finely minced amounts for children with mature chewing skills, mixed into family meals like stir fries or patties. Portion size for this age is typically 120–180g (4–6 oz) of food per meal, alongside protein, a variety of colorful vegetables, and complex carbs. Always ensure any lemongrass pieces are very fine and well-cooked.