When you think of Indian food, the mind often wanders to rich, aromatic dishes bursting with spices and flavours. While Indian cuisine is beloved worldwide for its taste, it also offers a range of dishes that can be both satisfying and healthy. Whether you’re dining in or looking for Indian food near me, these dishes provide nutritious, well-balanced meals perfect for dinner. Here’s a list of the top 10 best healthy Indian dishes to try in the UK.
1. Tandoori Chicken
Tandoori is a healthy and classic choice for anyone looking for a high-protein, low-calorie meal. The chicken is marinated in yoghurt, seasoned with turmeric, cumin and chilli and then cooked in the tandoor or clay oven. This helps to lock in the flavour without using heavy oils. This dish, which is served with vegetables or salads, makes a healthy and light dinner.
2. Palak Paneer
Palak Paneer is a combination of pureed spinach, spices and paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese). This vegetarian dish is rich in iron, calcium and protein. It also has a creamy texture and provides nutrients. This is a delicious, comforting dish that goes well with brown or whole-wheat rice.
3. Dal Tadka
Dal Tadka is an Indian staple and a great source of fibre and protein. This dish is made with yellow lentils, turmeric, cumin and garlic. It’s then finished off with a splash of ghee to add flavour. Dal Tadka has a low calorie count, is packed with vitamins, minerals and easy digestion, making it a great choice for those who want to maintain a healthy diet.
4. Chana Masala
Chana Masala, a North Indian favourite, is made with chickpeas and a mixture of spices, including cumin, coriander and garam masala. Chickpeas provide a great source of fibre, complex carbohydrates and plant-based proteins. This dish is both nutritious and filling. Chana Masala is a great meal when paired with brown rice, whole wheat naan or other grains.
5. Baingan Bharta
Baingan Bharta, or smoky eggplant mashed with tomatoes, onions and spices, is a dish that is rich in smoky flavours. This dish is incredibly tasty without using excessive oil or butter because eggplant has a high fibre content and low-calorie count. Baingan Bharta can be served with rice or roti and is a delicious, light dinner.
6. Fish Curry
The fish curry is rich in omega-3 fats, especially when it’s made from lean fish such as cod or tilapia. These healthy fats have been linked to heart health. Curry is usually made from tomatoes, onions and a mixture of spices such as turmeric, garlic and ginger. For a balanced, healthy dinner, serve the fish curry with rice or steamed veggies.
7. Aloo Gobi
Aloo gobi is a delicious and nutritious dish made with potatoes and cauliflower, seasoned with cumin and turmeric. Cauliflower contains a lot of fibre and vitamin C while potatoes are a great source of potassium. Aloo Gobi offers a healthy and comforting vegetarian dinner option. Combine it with whole-wheat chapati to get an extra fibre boost.
8. Vegetable Biryani
Vegetable Biryani, a fragrant and delicious rice dish, is filled with vegetables such as carrots, beans, and peas. Many healthy biryani recipes use olive oil instead of ghee to reduce the fat content. The addition of vegetables will increase the fibre and nutrients, making it a healthy, hearty meal. This dish can be made lighter by choosing a smaller portion and adding a side of salad.
9. Methi Thepla
Methi Thepla, a traditional Gujarati recipe, is made from whole wheat flour and fenugreek (methi) leaves. It also contains several other spices. Fenugreek has many health benefits including improving digestion and reducing blood sugar. Thepla is a fibre-rich, nutritious flatbread that goes well with yoghurt or pickles. This is a light and filling option that’s perfect for dinner.
10. Mushroom masala
Mushroom Masala, a tasty curry dish with a tomato-based sauce spiced up to perfection, is made from mushrooms. Mushrooms contain low calories, are rich in antioxidants and are a great source of B vitamins. Mushroom masala is a vegan-friendly, flavorful option that goes well with brown rice or whole-grain roti.
Tips for Making Your Indian Dinner Healthier
Here are some quick tips if you want to order Indian takeaway or cook at home.
- Choose whole grain: Brown rice or whole wheat Roti is a better choice than white rice and naan because it has more fibre.
- Limit creamy dishes: Dishes like butter chicken with creamy sauces tend to have more calories. Choose lighter curries made from tomato or yoghurt.
- Increase your intake of vegetables: Choose dishes that are rich in vegetables such as Vegetable Biryani or Aloo Gobi to boost the fibre and vitamins you consume.
- Limit portion sizes. Indian food can be rich in calories because of the ingredients. You can achieve a healthy balance by choosing smaller portions and complementing the meal with a salad or vegetable-based dish.
When you’re in the UK and searching for Indian food or takeaway near me, these healthy Indian dishes can provide a nutritious, flavorful dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. With various options that cater to different dietary needs—be it vegetarian, vegan, or protein-focused—you can enjoy the best of Indian cuisine without the guilt.
So next time you’re craving Indian food, remember that a healthy, balanced dinner is just a choice away. And for more tips on finding the best takeaways in the UK, you can always check out Compare Eats for great recommendations and local favourites.
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