🍼 Introduction
Starting solids can feel exciting and overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. Korean rice cereal—often called 20x porridge—is one of the most gentle and beginner-friendly first foods for 6-month-old babies. Made using finely milled rice flour and water, this smooth and mild cereal helps babies practice swallowing while being easy on tiny tummies.
In Korea, many moms use rice flour instead of whole rice because it dissolves quickly, cooks evenly, and creates a silky, lump-free texture. This recipe follows the classic 20x ratio (1 part rice flour to 20 parts water) and provides detailed tips for consistency, storage, and feeding.
This Korean rice cereal (20x porridge) is perfect for 6-month-old babies beginning their solid-food journey.
🍚 What Is “20x Rice Porridge”?
20x porridge means:
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1g of rice flour : 20g of water
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Creates an ultra-thin, smooth, runny mixture
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Ideal for babies who are just starting solids
Example:
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18g rice flour + 360ml water = 20x porridge
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30g rice flour + 300ml water → often used and then divided into 20g cubes for freezing
The goal is not thickness, but easy swallowing and easy digestion.
⭐ Benefits of Korean Rice Cereal for Babies
✔ Very easy to digest
✔ Extremely low allergy risk
✔ Neutral flavor helps babies adjust to solids
✔ Can be thinned or thickened based on progress (20x → 15x → 10x)
✔ Works as a base for vegetables later (pumpkin, sweet potato, zucchini)
🥣 Ingredients
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Rice flour (fine or ultra-fine) – 18g
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Water – 360ml (cold water preferred)
Cold water helps rice flour dissolve without forming lumps.
👩🍳 How to Make Korean Rice Cereal (20x Porridge)
1️⃣ Dissolve rice flour
In a small pot, add cold water and sprinkle the rice flour little by little.
Stir continuously to prevent clumping.
2️⃣ Heat gently
Turn the stove on to medium-low heat.
Once the mixture begins to warm up, keep stirring with a spatula.
3️⃣ Cook for 4–5 minutes
As the mixture heats, it will start to turn slightly translucent.
Continue cooking until the texture becomes smooth, thin, and gently flowing.
4️⃣ Strain for ultra-smooth texture
If your rice flour is very fine, straining may not be necessary.
But if you want perfect smoothness, press it through a fine mesh sieve.
5️⃣ Cool before serving
Let the rice cereal cool slightly to a warm, baby-safe temperature.
🌡 Ideal Texture Guide
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20x porridge → runny, slides off the spoon easily
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15x porridge → slightly thicker, for babies who swallowed 20x well
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10x porridge → more body, used for later stages
❄️ Storage Tips
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Refrigerator: Up to 3 days
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Freezer cubes: Use within 2 weeks
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Reheat with a bit of warm water to return to a loose consistency
🍼 How Much to Feed?
For the FIRST week:
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2–3 small spoonfuls are enough
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The goal is tasting, not eating a full meal
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Watch for signs of fullness or discomfort
⚠️ Safety Notes
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No salt, sugar, or seasonings—babies’ kidneys are still developing
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Introduce only one new food every 2–3 days
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Watch for allergic reactions (rash, vomiting, diarrhea, unusual fussiness)
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Stop feeding if baby turns their head away or seems uncomfortable
❓ FAQ
Is homemade rice cereal safer than packaged baby cereal?
Yes. Homemade rice cereal contains no additives and allows full control over texture and freshness.
Can babies eat rice cereal every day?
Daily consumption is safe, but variety is important. Rotate with vegetables once your baby adjusts.
Can I use brown rice flour?
Not yet. Brown rice is harder to digest for young babies.
What if the mixture becomes too thick?
Add warm water little by little and whisk until smooth.
💛 JOA mom’s Tip
“Start with the gentlest textures. Your baby’s tummy will thank you—and you’ll build confidence too!”
🌟 Conclusion
Korean rice cereal is a simple, nutritious, and gentle way to begin your baby’s solid-food journey. With the classic 20x ratio and a little practice, you’ll create a silky, baby-friendly porridge every time. This foundational recipe will support your baby’s transition to vegetables, grains, and new flavors in the coming weeks.
Your baby’s first food can be sweet, peaceful, and confidence-building—for both of you! 💛