It’s a common misconception that Indian food is not for the diet conscious. In fact, many Indian dishes are vegetarian or vegan, and make for a balanced, healthy meal when paired with low carb sides. It’s all about knowing what dishes to select when you’re browsing the menu. Here, we suggest some of the most healthy Indian dishes to choose when you feel the need to spice up your diet.
Tandoori dishes
Tandoori dishes are a health conscious option for those looking for a meal packed with lean protein. Chicken Tandoori, Chicken Shashlic and Tandoori Fish are all flavourful yet low fat choices thanks to the way they are cooked – in a clay oven with minimal oil. Many tandoori dishes are also served without a rich, heavy sauce, which is preferable for those who are counting calories. They pair beautifully with veggie sides such as Brinjal Bhajee or Mushroom Mossala.
Tarka Dal
You don’t need to head to a specialist vegan Indian restaurant to find delicious Indian vegan food. Most restaurants have a range of dishes that cater to plant-based diets – and Tarka Dal is one of them. This lentil dish is flavoured with garlic, onion and spices and is a great source of protein and fibre. Add a roti or chapati on the side to round out your meal.
Aloo Gobi
Aloo Gobi is a flavourful, low fat, and packed with all the health benefits of spices such as turmeric, ginger, garlic and cumin. It combines soft potato and crispy cauliflower, making for a delicious vegetarian main or an accompaniment to a lean protein dish like King Prawn Tandoori. Alternatively, add Sag or Palak Bhajee to double down on the veggies.
Sag Chicken
For those who like a little more spice when it comes to Indian food, Sag Chicken is a great option. This medium spiced dish combines lean chicken with fresh spinach, providing an excellent source of iron, fibre and vitamins. Team with a paratha or boiled rice to add a helping of carbohydrate.
Bhuna
If you like your Indian food with more sauce, opt for a bhuna. Onion, capsicum and traditional herbs combine to give bhuna its deep flavour, and the sauce is reduced rather than gravy-like. Choosing eggs or a lean, light meat such as fish or prawns ensures you get a serving of healthy protein alongside the delicious medium-spiced flavours of the sauce.
Mixed vegetable curry
Mixed vegetable curry is a healthy, filling and popular choice. In many Indian vegetarian restaurants potatoes are included in the curry, so there’s no need to add rice or naan if you prefer to keep carbs low. Instead, pair it with sag panir or chana mossala (chick peas cooked in traditional spices) for some protein.
If you’re in London looking for healthy Indian food, why not visit Little India in South Kensington? With a menu packed with healthy, authentic dishes, you’re sure to find something tasty and diet conscious. Reserve a table today or pop in as you’re passing.
