Minced & moist foods are designed for people who need very soft foods that require minimal chewing. This level works well for dysphagia, reduced chewing strength, fatigue, or difficulty managing larger or firmer bites, while still allowing meals to look and feel familiar.
These recipes follow IDDSI Level 5 guidelines. Foods are finely minced, soft, and held together with moisture so they can be easily controlled in the mouth and swallowed safely.
What makes Minced & Moist different
Minced & moist sits between pureed foods and soft & bite-sized foods.
- Food is finely chopped or minced, not chunky
- Texture is soft, cohesive, and moist, never dry or crumbly
- Bites should hold together on a fork, not fall apart into loose pieces
This level reduces the effort needed to chew while still providing texture and flavor, making it a common next step after pureed foods.
Foods that usually work well at this level
Common minced & moist foods include:
- Finely minced meats mixed with sauce or gravy
- Soft casseroles and bakes
- Moist rice, pasta, or grains combined evenly with sauce
- Well cooked vegetables that are soft and chopped small
- Soft legumes, eggs, and fish prepared with added moisture
Foods that are dry, sticky, stringy, or have mixed textures often need modification before they’re safe at this level. But it is not possible to clear a food item based on the recipe; you must always test foods at time of service.
How to use these recipes
The recipes below are written to meet minced & moist texture needs without making meals feel clinical. They’re designed to be practical for home cooks and caregivers, and to work alongside foods served to others at the table with minimal adjustments.
If minced foods still feel difficult to manage, pureed recipes may be more appropriate. If chewing strength improves, some soft & bite-sized meals may become comfortable options.
Minced & Moist Recipe Collection
Below you’ll find all of our minced & moist recipes, created to be:
- Soft, cohesive, and easy to manage
- Moist throughout, not just topped with sauce
- Familiar and comforting for everyday meals
Each recipe includes notes on texture, preparation, and situations where a different level may work better. One of my top recipes at this diet texture level is this citrusy ambrosia salad. For a closer look at how this texture fits into the full range, check out my guide to the different diet textures.
All recipes written and tested by Amy Listermann, MS, CCC-SLP.
1
Crab Tater Tots with Chipotle Aioli Recipe
Golden, soft crab and potato bites with creamy interiors and subtle smoky depth, finished with a mild chipotle aioli. Crispness is replaced by gentle cohesion and buttery flavor, making this coastal comfort food test as a minced and moist (IDDSI Level 5) diet texture.
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2
Asian Chicken Broccoli Slaw Recipe
The combination of vegetables, tender chicken, and tangy dressing makes this Asian Chicken Salad satisfying and full of flavor. The ramen noodles add an unexpected twist that keeps the dish interesting. Testing at IDDSI Level 5 compliance, this minced salad becomes an inclusive meal option that retains the classic, bold flavors of Asian cuisine while being safe and enjoyable for everyone.
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3
Pimento Cheeseburger Fried Rice Recipe
All the comfort of a cheeseburger, reimagined as creamy, savory fried rice. Ground beef, rice, and pimento cheese sauce meld together into a soft, cohesive bowl of Southern comfort that’s gentle eating. This recipe tests as Minced and Moist IDDSI Level 5.
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4
Squash and Sausage Casserole Recipe
This savory fall casserole transforms squash and other fall favorites into a silky, balanced, easy-to-chew meal that’s hearty yet gentle. With sweet roasted squash, apples, and a hint of creaminess, it’s designed for IDDSI Level 5 (Minced & Moist) diets but flexible enough for any table. Every bite offers comfort, nutrition, and familiar flavors without sacrificing safety or satisfaction.
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5
Chicken Picatta Pasta Bake Recipe
A one-pan lemon chicken and orzo designed for batch cooking and Minced & Moist textures. Chicken braises until tender while the orzo intentionally overcooks, then everything is finished with a smooth spinach, yogurt, and caper sauce for cohesion and brightness. Built to be nourishing, predictable, and easy to reheat without texture troubles.
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6
Stuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
This quinoa and bean stuffed pepper skillet is a wholesome, protein-packed dish perfect for a nutritious meal. This colorful minced and moist casserole features bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, beans, vegetables, and spices. With minced and moist (IDDSI level 5) modifications, this recipe can be made accessible for everyone, making it a versatile and inclusive meal option.
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7
Ambrosia Salad Recipe
This ambrosia salad brings together tropical fruit and citrusy sweetness in a smooth, moist, and fully cohesive minced and moist (IDDSI Level 5) dish. Cool Whip and Greek yogurt provides a creamy base, while pineapple mince and soft orange gelatin add bright flavor.
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8
Jambalaya Recipe
Jambalaya is a classic Creole and Cajun dish known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients. This one-pot dish combines chicken, sausage, and shrimp with rice and a blend of spices for a comforting, flavorful meal. With simple kitchen modifications, Jambalaya can be adapted for different texture needs, like this IDDSI Level 5 Minced and moist, ensuring everyone can enjoy this beloved Southern staple.
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9
Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Pot Pie Recipe
Pot pies are a cherished comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia to the table. This version highlights the beloved combination of broccoli and cheddar, enhancing the classic chicken filling for a modern twist. By choosing soft vegetables like broccoli, this minced & moist dish (IDDSI Levle 5) ensures an easy to eat filling that’s perfect for those following IDDSI guidelines or anyone who loves a hearty, savory pie.
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10
Lemon Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Shrimp and grits is a beloved dish in Southern cuisine, known for its rich, comforting flavors. This minced and moist (IDDSI Level 5) version adds a touch of lemon, bringing brightness and balance to the buttery, savory grits and shrimp. The combination of creamy grits and lightly seasoned shrimp creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. This recipe is perfect for any time of year when you crave a cozy meal with a fresh, zesty touch.
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11
Roasted Strawberry & Tomato Salad Recipe
Roasting strawberries and tomatoes highlights their natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the savory caramelized shallots and the bright, fresh flavor of cilantro oil. The optional addition of pickled jalapeños brings a spicy, tangy kick, while the feta or other protein choices add depth and creaminess.
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12
Falafel Bake Recipe
A tender, spoonable falafel that's cohesive, moist, and bursting with cumin and lemon. This recipe tests at minced and moist texture (IDDSI Level 5).
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13
Spanish Paella with Chorizo Recipe
This Spanish Paella is a flavorful combination of tender rice, smoky chorizo, and aromatic saffron, creating a dish that’s vibrant and hearty. For those who may not have saffron on hand, this recipe also includes an alternative spice option that captures the warm, earthy flavors of traditional paella. With minced and moist (IDDSI level 5) texture naturally, this dish can also be adjusted for everyone to enjoy while retaining its rich, classic flavors.
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14
Low-Acid Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Classic Eggplant Parm is traditionally layered with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese. This version keeps the comfort but swaps tomatoes for sweet peppers to cut acidity and reflux triggers. Eggplant itself is mildly alkaline, so it can help buffer stomach acid instead of adding to it, especially when it’s baked instead of fried.
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15
Cubed Beet Salad Recipe
This dish is a flexible, IDDSI-compliant way to bring together rich flavors and textures while ensuring safety and enjoyment. Whether it’s for a light meal or a side dish, this beet salad with cumin and coriander oil brings a fresh twist to the table that everyone can enjoy.
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16
Black Forest Yule Log Recipe
This Black Forest Yule Log offers rich chocolate, tart cherries, and smooth coconut cream in a festive, IDDSI-compliant format that everyone can enjoy. With modifications to meet specific texture needs, this dessert ensures that each holiday table can be inclusive without sacrificing flavor or visual appeal. Whether layered as a trifle or rolled traditionally, this yule log-inspired dessert brings the celebration to all.
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17
Coconut Curry Lentils Recipe
Coconut Curry Lentils are a rich and flavorful dish that pairs earthy lentils with creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices. This dish is simple to make, vegan-friendly, and perfect for a hearty meal served with rice or flatbread. Starting as minced and moist (Level 5), adjustments for IDDSI compliance, it can be enjoyed by all, providing warmth and comfort in each bite.
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18
Edamame Hummus Sushi Bowls Recipe
Check out the modifications below the recipe for customizing IDDSI-level, style of eating, or energy levels!
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19
Mushroom Ragu Recipe
This mushroom ragù is built using slow, wet heat to fully soften the mushrooms while developing deep, savory flavor. Instead of relying on browning alone, the mushrooms are braised in aromatics and broth until they collapse into a sauce. The result is rich and complex without heaviness, making it suitable as a vegetable-forward main or a hearty topping for your starches. Designed to reheat well and adapt easily across texture levels.
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20
Coconut Tapioca Pudding Recipe
This ginger coconut tapioca pudding is gently aromatic and intentionally calm. Fresh ginger is lightly infused into coconut milk, then strained out, leaving warmth without spice or fibers. Small tapioca pearls soften fully and suspend in the pudding, creating a cohesive, spoonable dessert that sets well, reheats gently, and holds its structure for meal prep. Designed for IDDSI Level 5 Minced and moist.
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