
Simple Salmon Rice Balls
non-veg · 6m+ · en
These 5-ingredient salmon rice balls are ready in 10 minutes and make the perfect baby-led weaning, toddler, and family-friendly meal. Packed with protein and omega-3s, they are perfectly sized for little hands to grab and enjoy.
Why We Love This Recipe
Finding a meal that works for a weaning baby, an independent toddler, and hungry parents can be a challenge. These Simple Salmon Rice Balls use just five ingredients and take only ten minutes from start to finish. They offer a fantastic, mess-free way to introduce healthy fish into your child's diet, providing essential fats for brain development while encouraging their pincer grasp!
Salmon is an incredible source of DHA and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for your baby's rapid brain and eye development in their first year. Short-grain rice provides easily digestible carbohydrates to fuel active toddlers.
- Prep
- 5 min
- Cook
- 5 min
- Servings
- 4
- Age
- 6m+
Ingredients
Steps
Carefully inspect the flaked cooked salmon with clean hands to ensure absolutely no bones remain, as they pose a serious choking hazard for babies and toddlers.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the slightly cooled short-grain rice, flaked salmon, and finely chopped peas.
Drizzle the low-sodium soy sauce (if using) over the mixture for flavour. Add a small splash of water to help the starches activate, and mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
With clean, slightly damp hands, scoop small amounts of the mixture and gently press them into bite-sized balls, roughly the size of a grape. Place them on a parchment-lined steaming basket or tray.
Steam the rice balls for 5 minutes until they are warmed right through and the chopped peas are completely soft and tender. Let them cool to a safe, warm temperature before serving to your baby.
Frequently asked questions
How should I store leftover salmon rice balls?
Store leftover rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently by steaming them for a couple of minutes or microwaving in short bursts until warmed through. Always test the temperature on the inside before serving to your child.
Can I substitute the salmon with another protein?
Yes! If you don't have salmon, you can substitute low-mercury canned tuna (mashed well) or any cooked white fish like cod or haddock. Ensure whatever fish you use is completely free of bones.
Are these safe for early baby-led weaning?
Yes, as long as the peas are finely chopped and steamed until very soft, and the balls are formed into a safe, manageable size (like a grape) that squishes easily between your fingers. Always supervise your baby while eating. If introducing fish or soy for the first time, do so in a small amount to monitor for any allergic reactions.
What you'll need
Shop this recipe
As an Amazon Associate, Parenting by Mama earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.

Plum Organics Teensy Snacks Soft Fruit - Mixed Berry - - Organic Toddler Food Fruit Snacks, 5 Count (Pack of 16)
Buy on Amazon →
Alata Mini Sporks, 4-Pack Food-grade Stainless Steel Mini Sporks for Kids, 5.7 Inches Salad Forks For Dessert, Ice Cream, Salad, Soup, Noodle, Spaghetti, Dishwasher Safe
Buy on Amazon →
Tovla Jr Kid Safe Knife Gift Set for Real Cooking | Toddler Kitchen Knives | Montessori STEM Cooking Tools | Kids Chef Knives and Utensils | BPA Free Dishwasher Safe | Birthday Gift Ages 4 to 12
Buy on Amazon →
NutriBullet NBY-50100 Baby Complete Food-Making System, 32-Oz, White, Blue, Clear
Buy on Amazon →
More ideas

Little Bear's Salmon Rice Bites
These simple, delicious salmon rice balls are a fantastic way to introduce seafood to your baby or toddler. Made with just five ingredients, they are soft, nutritious, and perfectly sized for baby-led weaning or a fun family snack.
Pescatarian8m+
Yum-Yum Yogurt Rice with Hidden Veggies
This comforting toddler-friendly curd rice combines extra-soft mashed rice with cooling yogurt, a splash of milk, and finely steamed vegetables. A hint of roasted cumin aids digestion, making it a perfect, hydrating meal for rainy days or sensitive tummies.
vegetariantoddler
Super Belly Veggie Khichdi
This soft, comforting yellow lentil and rice porridge is the perfect nourishing meal for your little one. Gently spiced and packed with soft veggies, it's easy on the tummy and super delicious.
vegetariantoddler
Little Shrimp & Winter Melon Splash Bowl
Inspired by classic Chinese summer dishes, this hydrating winter melon and minced shrimp bowl is perfect for little tummies. It is gentle, easy to chew, and lightly thickened into a savory sauce that clings to a spoon or mixes perfectly with soft rice.
Pescetarian8m+
Little Explorer's Yam & Beef Nuggets
These nutrient-dense mini nuggets combine naturally sweet Chinese yam and protein-packed beef into the perfect soft bite. Baked to perfection and served with refreshing cucumber sticks, they make an ideal summer lunch for babies practicing their pincer grasp.
High-Protein8m+
Little Chayote & Carrot Sunshine Bowls
Featuring soft steamed chayote, sweet carrots, and protein-packed quinoa, this light meal is perfect for hot summer days. Serve it at room temperature for a cool, soothing treat!
Vegan / Gluten-Free6m+