Healthy Versions Of Filipino Food

Introduction

Filipino food is one of the most delicious and flavorful cuisines in the world. But unfortunately, traditional Filipino dishes are often high in fat and calories. But that doesn't mean you have to give up your favorite dishes altogether! With a few simple tweaks and substitutions, you can create delicious and healthy versions of your favorite Filipino dishes that are just as tasty but much better for your health. Read on to learn more about some of the best healthy versions of Filipino dishes you can make at home.

Healthy Adobo

Adobo is one of the most popular and beloved Filipino dishes, but it's usually cooked with pork or chicken that is fried in oil and swimming in a fatty, salty sauce. To make a healthier version of this classic dish, opt for leaner meats like turkey or tofu. You can also cut back on the oil by substituting it with low-sodium chicken broth or water. Additionally, use a combination of low-sodium soy sauce, vinegar, garlic and spices for a flavorful, healthier adobo.

Healthy Lumpia

Lumpia is another classic Filipino dish. Like adobo, these delicious fried spring rolls are usually filled with fatty meats, vegetables and cheese. To make a healthier version, opt for leaner meats like turkey or tofu. You can also use a combination of vegetables like bell pepper, onions, jicama and carrots. Additionally, use low-fat cheese or even omit it altogether. Once you have your filling ready, wrap it in a whole wheat spring roll wrapper and fry in a small amount of oil.

Healthy Pancit

Pancit is a type of noodle dish that is served at almost every Filipino gathering. But the traditional version is usually high in fat and calories. To make a healthier version, use whole wheat noodles instead of regular noodles. Additionally, use lean meats like turkey or tofu and a combination of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, carrots and snow peas. Instead of cooking the noodles in a pool of oil, opt for a low-sodium broth or sauce. Finally, top with chopped green onions and freshly ground pepper for a flavorful, healthier pancit.

Healthy Sinigang

Sinigang is a popular Filipino soup dish that is usually cooked with pork or beef. To make a healthier version, opt for leaner meats like turkey or tofu. You can also use a combination of vegetables like tomatoes, eggplant, okra and bok choy. Instead of regular fish sauce, use low-sodium fish sauce or soy sauce. Additionally, top with a dollop of low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy, delicious sinigang.

Healthy Bistek Tagalog

Bistek Tagalog is a popular Filipino dish that is usually cooked with fatty cuts of beef. To make a healthier version, opt for leaner cuts of beef like sirloin or round steak. You can also use a combination of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, garlic and mushrooms. Additionally, use low-sodium soy sauce, vinegar and a small amount of oil to cook the steak. Finally, top with freshly ground pepper and chopped green onions for a flavorful, healthier bistek.

Conclusion

Filipino food is some of the most flavorful and delicious dishes in the world. But unfortunately, traditional Filipino dishes are often high in fat and calories. Thankfully, with a few simple tweaks and substitutions, you can create healthy versions of your favorite Filipino dishes that are just as tasty but much better for your health. So the next time you're craving Filipino food, don't feel guilty about indulging, just opt for one of these healthier versions and enjoy!