Japanese curried beef stew with pearl barley, carrots and cauliflower for toddlers

Next on the menu

November 17, 2026

Lunch · Protein packed

Japanese curried beef stew for babies and toddlers

Slow-cooked beef in a mild, gently sweet Japanese-style curry with pearl barley, carrots and cauliflower. New on our autumn menu and dairy-free.

Age

Babies from 7 months and toddlers 1–4 years

Textures

Smooth, lumpy, bite-sized or toddler portion

Suits

Dairy-free · Egg-free · Vegetarian version

Reviewed by Jo Lenz

Our HCPC-registered paediatric dietitian plans the menu and reviews every recipe.

Cooked by Chef Kwesi

Made fresh each morning by our executive head chef and his team in Battersea, London. Never frozen.

About this dish

No added salt or sugar

Flavour comes from herbs, spices and the ingredients themselves.

Our Japanese curried beef was a firm favourite with rice. This season we serve it with pearl barley to gently introduce a new texture, because learning to manage different grains is part of building eating skills.

Grains like barley can feel tricky at first. For younger children, mix the barley into the sauce or stir in a little plain yoghurt to make it easier to eat. With gentle, repeated exposure, what feels unfamiliar today can become a favourite.

A note from Jo Lenz, paediatric dietitian

From Chef Kwesi

One dish, every stage

Our main meals come in the texture your child is ready for, and you can switch any time from your account.

Smooth

Blended for babies starting out on solids.

Lumpy

Soft lumps to practise chewing.

Bite-sized

Soft pieces for little fingers and self-feeding.

Toddler

A bigger portion for children aged 1 to 4.

How to choose a texture

Questions parents ask

Is curry OK for babies?

Yes, when it is mild. Our Japanese curry is gentle and slightly sweet from apple, with no chilli heat, so babies from 7 months can enjoy it in a smooth, lumpy or bite-sized texture.

How do I reheat the Japanese curried beef stew?

Microwave for 60 seconds (baby portion) or 90 seconds (toddler portion) in your own microwave-safe container. For babies under 2, reheat on the hob with a dash of water and the lid on at medium heat for 6 minutes for a softer texture.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes. The vegetarian version swaps the beef for tofu and keeps the same curry, barley and vegetables. Both versions are dairy-free and egg-free.

Fresh meals for babies and toddlers, cooked in London every morning

Chef Kwesi and the team cook every meal from scratch in our Battersea kitchen. Our own drivers deliver them chilled across London, ready to heat and serve.

From £11.99 a day

Each delivery day brings two main meals and a booster from that day’s menu. Toddler days (1–4 years) are £15.49. Free delivery across London.