Everyone loves a takeaway, but if you’re trying to live a healthier lifestyle, they’re often the first thing to go. There’s good news, though. Just because you’re trying to choose healthier eating options doesn’t mean you have to give up ordering food in when you can’t be bothered to cook or you just want to treat yourself. There are plenty of healthier takeaway options available here in the UK, and here at ChefOnline we’re going to give you some inspiration to whet your appetite. We’re talking takeaways with less salt, less fat and fresher vegetables — and no deep-fried stuff in sight.
Chinese and Thai
If you’re in the mood for a Chinese or Thai food, you can still enjoy plenty of dishes from your favourite takeaway restaurants without feeling too guilty about the health consequences. First off, be sure to avoid prawn crackers and anything on the menu that has the word “crispy” in it. Instead, opt for dishes that have been steamed, such as steamed fish or vegetables, and choose plain boiled rice as an alternative to egg fried rice. Choosing stir fry dishes will also up your veggie intake, while clear soups are another good bet.
Indian
The good news is that Indian takeaways aren’t off the menu if you’re watching what you eat either. As with Chinese and Thai, you just have to know what to choose. Rather than going for rich and creamy curries, instead opt for tomato-based dishes or something grilled, such as Tandoori chicken or chicken Shashlik, which are both packed with flavour. That said, if it’s the texture of a classic curry you want, you could also try ordering a lentil-rich dhal or a Rajma Dupiaza, which is made with kidney beans and chickpeas. Looking for a side dish? Choose plain rice and chapatis, but go easy on the naan.
Kebabs
Kebabs may not sound that healthy, particularly when you imagine the greasy doner kebabs you’ve probably had on a night out. But you’d be surprised. Shish kebabs (simple skewers of grilled meat and vegetables) are a much healthier choice, and even more so if you have them with a fresh salad instead of chips. Mediterranean kebabs are a good option, too — think skewers of grilled meat and fresh vegetables, with a crisp Greek salad to accompany them.
Italian
While pizza isn’t exactly the healthiest of foods, some takeaway pizzas are almost certainly more healthy than others. Choose an authentic Italian-style pizza with a thin crust instead of a deep pan crust, and choose one that’s loaded with healthy vegetable toppings, such as red peppers, rocket, mushrooms and onion. Italian soups and salads are a good option, too – think minestrone soup or a tomato-based salad (or bruschetta). If you’re in a pasta mood, choose a dish with a tomato-based sauce rather than a creamy carbonara.
Sushi
If you’ve got your heart set on a Japanese takeaway, you’re in luck: sushi is a famously healthy option and low in calories! Sushi gives you plenty of omega 3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart (the NHS recommends getting two portions of fish a week), so choosing sashimi dishes that are all fish without the rice is a great option if you’re trying to be healthy.
If you do choose rice-based sushi, maki contains a relatively small amount of rice along with fish and vegetables, such as avocado or cucumber. The seaweed it’s rolled in – known as nori – is good for you, rich in fibre, protein and a host of vitamins and minerals including zinc, Vitamin B12 and iodine. Go easy on the soy sauce – it’s full of salt.
A real guilt-free takeaway – what could be better?
Fish and chips
Ok, so we know we said no deep fried stuff, but there’s even a healthy angle on fish and chips. If you can have plain grilled fish without the batter then great, but if that’s not an option then try to choose fish that’s coated in breadcrumbs instead (or simply don’t eat the batter). Choose thick-cut chips or potato wedges if possible, as these soak up less of the oil they’re cooked in. Add a side of mushy peas or baked beans and you’ll cover one of your five a day, and request it without condiments so that you can add your own. However, don’t overdo the salt and condiments such as ketchup and mayo – low-fat versions of these are available too.
Mexican
Another tasty choice if you’re opting for healthier takeaways is Mexican. Providing you avoid deep-fried dishes such as chimichangas, Mexican has numerous healthy options, including your favourite fajitas and burritos. To make these healthier, go easy on the sour cream and cheese, avoid red meat and ask to have them loaded with vegetables such as roasted peppers, onions and tomato salsa. Avoiding gluten? Order grilled chicken or opt for a tasty ‘burrito bowl’ made with a lean meat, fish or beans.
So, what have we learned from today’s post? That, although takeaways can be unhealthy, that doesn’t mean they have to be. We’ve got one final tip for you. If you’re watching how much you eat, you’ll know that takeaway portions can end up leaving you feeling fit to burst. To that end, don’t be afraid to pop half of your takeaway in the fridge and save it for lunch tomorrow. You won’t regret it – we promise!
If you’re watching what you eat but want the culinary satisfaction that only a takeaway can provide, why not head over to the ChefOnline homepage and take a look at the mouthwatering healthy takeaway options in your area? A delicious and nutritious takeaway could be with you shortly!
