Healthy Chinese Food: Low-Calorie Options To Order

Chinese food is a staple for many people around the world, and for good reason! Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a variety of flavors and textures. However, many Chinese dishes can be high in calories and unhealthy for us. Thankfully, with a few smart modifications and by choosing the right ingredients, we can enjoy Chinese food with a lower calorie count. So, if you’re looking to enjoy a delicious Chinese meal while being mindful of your calorie intake, here are some great options to order.

Fresh Vegetables

Fresh vegetables are a great way to get in some essential vitamins and minerals. They are also generally low in calories. When ordering Chinese food, opt for vegetable dishes such as steamed or stir-fried vegetables. Try dishes such as bok choy, snow peas, celery, and bean sprouts. Pair these with some brown rice or lo mein noodles to create a tasty and healthy meal.

Soups

Soups are also a great choice for a low-calorie Chinese meal. Hot and sour soup is a classic Chinese dish that contains a flavorful mix of vinegar, soy sauce, and chili oil which is balanced by the addition of tofu. Egg drop soup is another great option, as it’s light and flavorful. Other great options are wonton soup, vegetable soup, and miso soup.

Vegetable Fried Rice

Fried rice is a classic Chinese dish that is also fairly high in calories. However, by opting for a vegetable-based fried rice rather than the traditional pork or chicken version, you can keep the calorie count low while still enjoying the same delicious flavor. Just make sure to use a light oil when cooking the dish. You can also add a variety of vegetables to the dish such as onions, carrots, and peas to add more flavor and texture.

Steamed Dumplings

Dumplings are a popular Chinese dish that are often served either fried or steamed. Steamed dumplings are a healthier choice compared to the fried version, and they are also much lower in calories. They are typically filled with pork, shrimp, or vegetables and are served with a flavorful dipping sauce. Dumplings are also an excellent source of protein, which helps to keep you fuller for longer.

Grilled Fish

Fish is a great source of protein and it is also low in calories. Many Chinese restaurants offer grilled fish dishes such as grilled salmon or tuna. These dishes are light and flavorful, and they also provide essential vitamins and minerals such as omega-3 fatty acids. Grilled fish dishes can also be paired with a variety of vegetables to make a complete and healthy meal.

Enjoy Low-Calorie Chinese Food

Chinese food is a delicious and versatile cuisine, and with a few simple modifications, you can make it much healthier. By opting for fresh vegetables, soups, vegetable fried rice, steamed dumplings, and grilled fish, you can enjoy a flavorful and low-calorie Chinese meal. So, next time you’re ordering Chinese food, think about making healthier choices that will benefit your health and wellbeing.