Weight loss is an important topic related to health and nutrition. The primary way to lose weight is to burn more calories than you consume. This can be achieved through a combination of diet. Eating nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in appropriate portions will help reduce calorie intake.
Weight loss is a common goal for many people, and exploring healthy Indian recipes can be a great way to support that goal. Indian cuisine offers many nutritious and flavorful options lower in fat, calories, and processed ingredients than typical Western fare. Focusing your diet on dal, vegetable curries, raita, and other dishes made with legumes, whole grains, fresh produce, herbs and spices can help promote weight loss through increased fibre, protein, and nutrients.
According to the National Library of Medicine, a balanced meal is key to successful weight loss. When trying to lose weight, it is important to eat a variety of nutritious foods that provide adequate calories and nutrients. A balanced meal contains moderate carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Carbohydrates provide energy, while protein helps build and maintain muscle mass. Healthy fats like those found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts keep you feeling satisfied. Vitamins, minerals, and fiber support overall health. Eating a balanced meal helps manage hunger and prevents overeating by providing nutrition and satiety.
Using traditional Indian ingredients and cooking techniques can add delicious variety to your diet and make it easier to cut calories without sacrificing taste.
6 Indian Recipes That You Should Add To Your Dinner Menu For Weight Loss
Besan Chilla
Besan chilla is a tasty and nutritious Indian pancake made from gram flour, also known as chickpea flour. As per the National Library of Medicine, besan provides a good source of protein and fibre to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Onions and chilies add flavour while spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric infuse it with aroma and colour. Besan chilla can be stuffed with veggies like spinach, potatoes, carrots or paneer to make it even more substantial and healthy. It's quick and easy to whip up, and can be enjoyed with your favourite chutneys or pickles.
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Masala Oats
Masala oats is a delicious breakfast porridge made with oats, veggies, and spices. This healthy recipe includes onions, tomatoes, carrots, green beans, peas, and corn cooked right into the oats. The vegetables add lots of nutrition. Masala oats make for a breakfast dish full of fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals. It's an excellent way to start the day feeling satisfied and energized. The mix of whole grains and vegetables makes it a great choice for a healthy, low-calorie meal.
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Egg Bhurji
Egg bhurji is a tasty Indian take on regular scrambled eggs that can be enjoyed at dinner. This flavourful dish is made with eggs, onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and spices sautéed in a pan. With a perfect balance of spice and flavour, egg bhurji makes a satisfying and healthy meal any time of day, especially when served with warm Indian bread like roti or naan.
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Chickpea Salad
This quick and easy chickpea salad is a nutritious option for dinner. According to the National Library of Medicine, chickpeas pack plenty of plant-based protein, while added vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers provide important vitamins and minerals. Whip up this salad by simply combining canned chickpeas with chopped fresh veggies and seasonings for a tasty salad that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
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Dal Palak / Spinach Dal
This vegetarian one-pot meal is comforting, healthy, and easy to make in a pressure cooker. Serve Dal Palak with fluffy basmati rice for a complete dinner.
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The combination of protein-packed lentils and iron-rich spinach makes this soup perfect for a nourishing plant-based weeknight dinner and is a healthy dish to have when you are on a diet.
Also read: Food Combinations To Avoid For Weight Loss
Indian Pumpkin Curry (Kaddu Ka Bharta)
This tasty Indian pumpkin curry can be made in less than half an hour, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Pumpkins are not only delicious but also packed with beta-carotene. As per the National Library of Medicine, it is an antioxidant converted to vitamin A in the body to support immunity. With lots of fibre and few calories, pumpkin is a nutritious addition to any diet. This easy curry highlights the natural sweetness of pumpkin, while the spices add warmth and depth for a healthy meal.
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Indian cuisine offers a wealth of nutritious and delicious recipes that can support weight loss goals. Focusing your diet on dishes made from vegetables, legumes, lean proteins, herbs and spices can help cut calories. With so many flavourful low-calorie options, eating healthy and losing weight does not have to be boring or restrictive when you explore the range of wholesome recipes.