Top 10 Healthy Chinese Food to Try, a Balanced Diet

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Chinese food is often seen as a convenient takeout option, but it sometimes gets a bad rap for being greasy and salty. While many Chinese foods can be unhealthy, there are also many nutritious choices.

This article highlights the top 10 healthy Chinese foods you should try, as cited by Good Housekeeping and Healthline.

10 Healthy Chinese Food

1. Steamed Dumplings

These bite-sized treats are a healthier alternative to fried options. Filled with lean meats and vegetables, steamed dumplings are a satisfying and nutritious snack or appetizer for just 40 calories each. Dipping them in the soy sauce gives them a richer flavor and makes them the best healthy Chinese food ever.

2. Moo Goo Gai Pan

This Cantonese dish, Moo Goo Gai Pan, features chicken stir-fried with a variety of fresh vegetables in a light sauce. It's a great way to enjoy a mix of healthy ingredients with minimal oil. Moo goo gai pan is relatively low in calories and typically includes mushrooms, broccoli, carrots, and water chestnuts, all of which pair well with white rice.

3. Beef and Broccoli

A classic favorite, this dish is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It features lean beef and broccoli seasoned with a savory sauce. As a balanced meal, the mineral in the beef can help maintain stable energy and oxygen-rich red blood cells.

4. Egg Drop Soup

A light and comforting option, egg drop soup is made with a clear broth and beaten eggs. Although it appears to be a simple meal, the broth in egg drop soup has a rich flavor from the cooked herbs, including ginger, garlic, and scallions. So it's low in calories, nutritious and tasty.

5. Cucumber Salad

Served as an appetizer or side dish, this refreshing salad is seasoned with vinegar, soy sauce, and a dash of chili flakes. The cucumber makes this dish low in calories and provides a hydrating crunch with a vitamin boost.

6. Kung Pao Chicken

A traditional Chinese dish, kung pao is made with chicken, peanuts, chili peppers, and vegetables. This Sichuan dish can be a healthy choice when prepared with minimal oil and a moderate amount of fuel. 

7. Sichuan Tofu

Tofu is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, and when cooked with Szechuan spices, it becomes a flavorful and healthy dish rich in nutrients. The sauce is made with ginger, garlic, and chili peppers, making this dish an anti-inflammatory meal.

8. Steamed Fish and Vegetables

Steaming fish preserves its delicate flavor and nutrients, making it a healthy choice. Known as a sad diet food, this meal is culturally authentic Chinese cuisine that provides a balanced and nutritious meal.

9. Eggplant with Garlic Sauce

This dish features tender eggplant in a flavorful garlic sauce. Eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great option for a diet menu with a smoky flavor. 

10. Chop Suey

Chop suey is a stir-fry dish that typically contains a mixture of meat, vegetables, and a light sauce. A cup of chop suey has 216 calories with 23 grams of protein from the meat, making it a nutritious meal option.

Incorporating these healthy Chinese dishes into your diet can help you enjoy delicious flavors while maintaining a balanced and nutritious eating plan.

Healthline | Good Housekeeping

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