Many traditional Chinese dishes are filled with healthy ingredients, including vegetables and lean meats. Additionally, many of the dishes can also be cooked using low-calorie techniques, such as steaming instead of frying. If you’re trying to lose weight, then a Chinese dish can be the ideal choice, whilst still providing you with plenty of flavors.

Considerations To Make Dishes Healthier

As you might expect, dishes that are fried should be avoided. Similarly, try to avoid foods which are high in saturated fat or which contain lots of sauce. Instead, whether it’s an appetizer, main meal, or aside, try to eat foods which are steamed as these are healthier for you. Alternatively, choose dishes which are boiled, poached, roasted, or even barbequed.

You should also opt for dishes which are loaded with vegetables and choose brown rice over white rice if possible. Finally, beware of sauces, particularly those which are high in sodium. One simple way to reduce your sauce intake is to ask for the sauce to be served separately. This way, you can control the amount of sauce you eat.

Top 6 Chinese Dishes

These six dishes are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to still enjoy a delicious Chinese meal and lose weight.

1. Broth-Based Soups

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Broth-based soups are a great option as they are generally lower-calorie, whilst still retaining plenty of tasty flavors. In particular, it can be an ideal choice to eat soup as an appetizer as it will help you to feel fuller, meaning you are less likely to eat more later on. Soups such as hot and sour soup, wonton, and egg drop are particularly good options.

2. Steamed Foods

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Steamed foods are definitely the way to go if you’re hoping to lose weight.

“Steamed dishes are generally lower in calories and also tend to have less oil. As a result, your meal will not only be lighter, but also easier to digest. A popular main dish is steamed chicken with broccoli. Alternatively, order beef and broccoli, with the sauce on the side. If you’re not a fan of meat, then steamed rice and vegetables is another healthy choice,” suggests Robert Meeker, a writer at Last minute writing and Writinity.

3. Steamed Shrimp

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If you’re not keen on steamed meat, then give steamed fish and shrimp a try instead. Steamed fish and shrimp are a great option as they are a healthy source of protein which is important to include in your diet. For a vegetarian alternative, go for a dish that includes grilled tofu.

4. Shrimp And Vegetables With Black Bean Sauce

This dish is not only popular but also packed full of nutrients, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to lose weight. As well as the protein provided by the shrimp, this dish also contains fiber and plenty of antioxidants. By ordering the sauce on the side, you can control your intake and make the meal even healthier. If you’re vegetarian, swap the shrimp for tofu instead.

5. Moo Goo Gai Pan

Moo Goo Gai Pan is the perfect choice for those who love vegetables as it packed full of them, making it a healthy and balanced option.

“This dish usually consists of stir-fried chicken, but you could substitute the chicken for tofu if you prefer. The mix of vegetables, particularly the mushrooms, makes this dish lower in fats and sugars than many other Chinese dishes. Even better, it is packed full of flavor,” says Megan Franks, a Chinese tutor at Draft beyond and Research papers UK.

6. Moo Shu Vegetables

This dish primarily consists of vegetables and is usually served with hoisin sauce and thin pancakes for wrapping. However, if you substitute the pancakes for lettuce, you can lower the carbohydrate content even further. Again, it is packed full of nutrients and flavored with ginger, garlic, and scallions.

Conclusion

Choose the main dishes and sides which are steamed for a healthier option. Go for meals which are loaded with vegetables, as they contain fiber and water which will help to make you feel fuller. Try to regulate your portion size and avoid Chinese food buffets. Finally, take your time to eat, using chopsticks if possible, to help you to slow down and minimize your chances of overeating.

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by Ronald Cain

Ronald Cain is an experienced tutor at Do my assignment and Gum Essays. He is passionate about writing and enjoys supporting and teaching others, particularly emerging writers, to develop their skills professionally so as to master their craft. Originally from Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, Ronald enjoys reading in his spare time and seeks to lead a healthy lifestyle.