Craving Chinese takeout but aiming for a healthy meal? The good news is, it’s entirely possible to enjoy flavorful Chinese cuisine while staying on track with your wellness goals. The key is knowing which dishes offer a balance of lean protein, hearty grains, and fresh vegetables, prepared in a way that minimizes unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium. Let’s explore What Is The Healthiest Chinese Food Takeout you can order.
Is Chinese Food Really That Unhealthy?
While some Chinese takeout options are notorious for being laden with greasy fried foods and sugary sauces, the truth is that Chinese cuisine offers a diverse range of dishes, many of which can be incredibly healthy. The healthiest Chinese foods often feature fresh, minimally processed ingredients.
Opting for dishes with fish, noodles, and vegetables is a great way to find the healthiest Chinese food choices. This focus on whole foods makes it easier to choose nutritious options, allowing you to enjoy richer dishes in moderation.
Finding the Healthiest Options on the Takeout Menu
So, what is the healthiest Chinese food takeout you can order? It starts with prioritizing wholesome ingredients and preparation methods that minimize processing. Look for dishes that include lean proteins, rice, and plenty of vegetables for added fiber and nutrients.
Prioritize steamed seafood, chicken, fish, and tofu as protein sources. Always check the nutritional information for saturated fat, sugar, and sodium content. When possible, substitute white rice with brown rice. Requesting sauces on the side allows you to control your portion sizes and overall intake.
Top 18 Healthiest Chinese Takeout Dishes
Here’s a rundown of some of the best options for a healthy and satisfying Chinese takeout experience:
1. Chinese Eggplant
This fiber-rich vegetable, often flavored with zesty vinegars and aromatic seasonings, offers a healthy alternative to carbohydrate-heavy entrees. Served over rice and sprinkled with sesame seeds, Chinese eggplant provides a delicious and nutritious meal.
2. Beef and Broccoli
A simple yet powerful combination, beef and broccoli is a classic pairing of lean protein and a leafy green vegetable. Opt for steamed versions with minimal sauce to maximize the nutritional benefits. It’s a great example of the healthiest Chinese food when prepared mindfully.
3. Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken using white meat provides a lean protein source when steamed or lightly stir-fried in healthy oil. The peanuts and vegetables contribute additional flavor, fiber, and macronutrients, making it a popular and healthier choice.
4. Lettuce Wraps
These fun, finger-food appetizers featuring chopped chicken, pork, or lean beef mixed with crisp vegetables offer a light and refreshing option. For a vegan-friendly alternative, request a mushroom filling. These are some of the healthiest Chinese food options.
5. Shrimp
Shrimp is a protein-dense and iodine-rich choice. Order it sautéed or steamed over noodles with a side of vegetables, and avoid heavy sauces for a nutritious and flavorful meal.
6. Buddha’s Delight
Also known as Lo Hon Jai, Buddha’s Delight is a plant-based dish featuring tofu and lightly steamed vegetables. It’s a cruelty-free protein source packed with vitamins and satisfying textures from ingredients like mushrooms, peapods, and water chestnuts.
7. Chop Suey
Despite its gravy-like appearance, chop suey can be a healthy choice due to its balanced mix of noodles, vegetables, protein, and sauce. The key is to ensure the sauce isn’t too fatty. Cashews add extra fiber, protein, and a delightful crunch.
8. Stir-Fry Vegetables
Ordering a dish with “vegetables” in the name is always a good start! Lightly stir-fried vegetables retain their crispness and nutrients. Served over brown rice and drizzled with soy sauce, this dish keeps nutrition a priority.
9. Moo Goo Gai Pan
This dish features chicken as a lean protein source combined with pea pods, mushrooms, and water chestnuts for a nutrient-rich and textured meal. It’s a great choice for dining out, ordering delivery, or making a healthy Asian-inspired dinner at home.
10. Steamed Potstickers
Opt for steamed potstickers over deep-fried egg rolls to make your Chinese meal a healthier one. These dumplings stuffed with chicken, cabbage, and mushrooms are cooked with steam rather than oil, offering a satisfying and nutritious option.
11. Egg Drop Soup
Soup is an excellent low-calorie option. Egg drop soup adds protein with its egg content. For a healthier homemade version, use low-sodium chicken broth and add tofu for extra protein and fiber.
12. Cashew Chicken
Cashew chicken is a flavorful dish that’s made up of skinless white meat and crunchy cashews. Modest preparation and minimal ingredients help make this a top pick among the healthiest Chinese foods. A drop or two of teriyaki sauce will add a touch of sweetness.
13. Mapo Tofu
This Sichuan specialty combines tofu and minced beef in a spicy sauce. Order the sauce on the side to control the spice level. Balance the meal with a side of steamed greens.
14. Bean Sprouts
Lightly stir-fried bean sprouts are a straightforward and healthy option. Their subtle flavor allows them to absorb your favorite seasonings and sauces easily.
15. Steamed Rice
When unsure about other menu options, steamed rice topped with vegetables, nuts, and a little soy sauce is a safe and nourishing choice.
16. Hot and Sour Soup
This flavorful soup provides a great way to fill up without a lot of fat and calories. Seasoned with ginger, vinegar, and pepper, it can be customized with egg and tofu for added protein.
17. Egg Foo Young
This Chinese-style vegetable omelet can be a healthy choice. Check whether it’s fried in oil to ensure it remains a nutritious option.
18. General Tso Tofu
General Tso tofu offers the flavorful sauce of the popular chicken dish, but with versatile soy curd. Request the sauce on the side to manage the heat and sodium content.
Enjoying Healthy Chinese Takeout
Choosing the healthiest Chinese food takeout involves a bit of planning. Review the menu online before ordering, and look for dishes with lean proteins, plenty of vegetables, and minimal heavy sauces. With a little knowledge and mindful selection, you can easily enjoy your favorite Chinese flavors while sticking to your health goals.
