If you’re Pakistani, we’re sure that Desi food holds a special place in your heart. So, you love those mouthwatering, tasty kebabs, right?
But you also hear people saying that Desi food is unhealthy, right? Yes, some desi foods contain oil. However, that’s not true for all.
So, we have healthy desi food options as well. Search for “ desi food near me.” and you’ll see. In today’s blog, we answer your questions about healthy desi food and give some good options.
Now, let’s start by understanding what desi food is.
1. Understanding Desi Food
Desi food is a term that describes traditional Pakistani cuisine. You’ll taste many flavours when you’re exploring “desi food near me.” you’ll taste many flavours. Now, why’s that?
It’s because Pakistan has five provinces, each with a different culture. So, it all comes together as desi food.
The dishes contain flavours from Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan. These flavours are old and have been coming down for generations.
So, you’ll find a mix of unique flavours when you search for “desi food near me”
2. Problems With Pakistani Desi Food
Yes, desi food is tasty. However, it comes with many health problems. So, think twice when you’re looking for desi food. Why’s that?
It’s because desi food is rich in oil, and oil makes fat. Moreover, some spices also have high calories. So take care when you eat them.
Lastly, desi food is addictive because of its popularity and great taste. So, once you start loving it, there’s no turning back.
Thus, it harms more than it helps.
3. Healthy Food Items For Desi Food Lovers
If you eat healthy food, then Gola Kababs and Chicken are not on our list. But don’t worry; there are many Pakistani desi food options that are healthy. So, let’s look at them.
1. Grain and bread
Desi grains and bread are great options. So, use them rather than refined grains. These grains include Roti, Naan, or Millet. Thus, you have many desi grains to eat.
2. Protein sources
Yes, meat contains protein. However, meat also contains fat. But that’s not a problem when you have other protein sources. You can choose plant proteins, like lentils, chickpeas, and tofu.
So, there are many ways to replace meat in your diet, and Pakistan has all the desi options.
So, you don’t need to worry about fewer options, if you switch to
3. Vegetables
You can also have vegetables instead of meat. There are many Pakistani vegetables that are full of nutrition.
For example, you can eat okras, spinach, and eggplant. So, use healthier cooking methods, like steaming and stir-frying. These methods help you retain nutrients in your food.
4. Herbs and spices
Spices improve your food’s taste and have many health benefits. For example, turmeric and coriander have anti-inflammatory properties, which improve your health.
5. Refreshing drinks
There are many Pakistani drinks that you can try. For example, there’s Lassi. Lassi contains yogurt and water. It’s a refreshing drink.
Moreover, there’s also lemonade and herbal teas. These teas give you hydration without extra sugars.
So, don’t worry. There are many food options to choose from if you switch to healthy eating.
4. Make Healthy Choices While Dining Out
You may maintain a healthy eating style at home. But what happens when you go out? But don’t worry; you can still make healthy choices while eating desi food. Here’s what you can do.
Firstly, eat fewer portions when you’re dining at a restaurant.
Moreover, instead of oily things, choose grill or barbecue food items. Doing this helps you get rid of cholesterol.
Also, you can order more vegetable dishes. Like mix vegetable curry and stir fry. So this way, you eat healthy and tasty.
Furthermore, take knowledge about the sauces that come with your dishes. It’s because some sauces contain high calories, which makes you fat.
Lastly, drink more water. It’s because water maintains your hydration and keeps you up and healthy.
Now, time for some ending notes.
Final Thoughts
Contrary to popular belief, desi food is healthy and nourishing. Now, how you eat it is what matters.
You need to make good choices to enjoy its taste. By doing so, you can enjoy the flavours of desi cuisine while taking care of your health.
Moreover, when you understand desi food and the variety it offers, you get healthier options. So take care when you’re searching for “desi homemade food near me.”
Furthermore, include whole grains like whole wheat, barley, and brown rice. Doing this not only adds fibre but also provides essential nutrients.
Also, choose bread Roti or Nan over your normal, daily bread. It saves you from the extra calories.
When it comes to protein, diversify your options. Yes, meat is an important part of desi cuisine. However, because it contains fat, there are other options.
For example, use lentils and other grains. These grains are rich in protein and have less fat. So, by eating grains, you get proteins without cholesterol.
Thus, you can continue eating desi food. However, just make good choices.
