In the quest to shed those extra pounds, we often find ourselves grappling with countless diets, elaborate exercise routines, and an overwhelming abundance of conflicting advice. Yet, we often overlook one of the most crucial aspects of any successful weight loss journey - our food choices.
For Indians, with our rich culinary heritage, this becomes an even more significant consideration. We’re surrounded by decadent dishes loaded with cream, ghee and all sorts of other delicious things that don’t necessarily align with our fitness needs. But you can still enjoy the classic flavours of Indian food while also sticking with your weight loss journey, it just takes some practice.
To get you on the right track, here are 5 delicious Indian meals that can help with weight loss:
Grilled Tandoori Chicken with Salad:
Tandoori chicken is a popular Indian dish that is both flavorful and healthy. Opt for skinless chicken marinated in a mixture of yoghurt and spices like turmeric, cumin, and ginger. Grill the chicken until it's tender and serve it with a side of fresh green salad dressed with lemon juice and a sprinkle of chaat masala. This meal is high in lean protein and low in calories, making it an excellent choice for weight loss.
Masoor Dal with Steamed Vegetables:
Dal is a staple in Indian cuisine and offers a great source of protein and fibre. Prepare a simple dal using red or yellow lentils, and season it with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Pair the deal with a variety of steamed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and spinach. This meal is packed with nutrients, low in fat, and will keep you feeling full for longer.
Fish Curry with Quinoa:
Fish curries are popular in coastal regions of India and can be made with a variety of fish such as salmon or tilapia. Prepare a flavorful curry using spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chilli powder, along with tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Serve the fish curry with a side of quinoa instead of rice. Quinoa is a high-protein grain that is lower in calories and has a lower glycemic index than rice, making it a healthier option for weight loss.
Stir-Fried Vegetables with Paneer:
Paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese, is a great source of protein and can be incorporated into a weight loss meal. Stir-fry a mix of colourful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and broccoli in a small amount of oil. Add cubed paneer to the stir-fry for a boost of protein. Season with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala for added flavour. This meal is rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals while being low in calories.
Sprout Salad with Chaat Masala:
Sprouts are highly nutritious and an excellent choice for weight loss. Create a refreshing salad by combining sprouted lentils, mung beans, or chickpeas with chopped cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad and sprinkle some chaat masala, a tangy and flavorful spice mix. This salad is rich in fibre, protein, and antioxidants, making it a healthy and satisfying option for weight loss.