Just because you’re following a low-carb diet doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a meal out once in a while! Restaurants don’t always have a lot of low-carb alternatives, Don’t be concerned! You do not have to say goodbye to your favorite Indian restaurant because if you know what to ask for, you can make practically any menu low-carb
Simply keep these suggestions in mind when perusing the menu, and you’ll be able to enjoy the flavours of Indian cuisine and you will leave the restaurant feeling satisfied and happy with your choices.
- Prepare ahead of time – Before you go to the restaurant, decide what you want to eat. The majority of restaurants now have their menus available online, making this process much easier. Choosing what to order before you sit down allows you to make a healthy, informed selection and avoid making an unhealthy option at the last minute.
- Place Your Order With Confidence – Most meals can be made with more veggies instead of higher carbohydrate dishes. Even pasta dishes can be served on top of steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles. Don’t be afraid to ask for things like the bun to be removed or a salad to be substituted for a baked potato. Restaurants are used to specific requests and strive to please their clients. If your request isn’t working, see if they can point you in the right direction.
- Get Your Vegetables – Vegetables that have been properly prepared are low in carbohydrates but high in fibre and minerals. Begin with a classic Indian salad. Fresh ingredients including raw onion, cucumber, coriander, and lemon are commonly used. After that, look for more veggie-based recipes, such as: Gobhi Achari (Cauliflower in Mustard Sauce), Paneer Palak (Cheese & Spinach), Bhindi Ki Sabzi (Stir-Fried Okra).
- Appetizers – Request to retain the bread basket or chip dish in the best-case scenario. When these meals are directly in front of you, it’s practically impossible to avoid them. However, there may be moments when your dining companions want to join in. Keep the meal as far away from your seat as feasible in that case. If you’re looking for a low-carb appetiser, try sharing one and focusing on those that have vegetables and protein. Here are a few examples:
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- Cocktail of shrimp
- Salad with a large variety of vegetables
- Guacamole made with fresh fruits and vegetables
- Mushrooms, or peppers grilled with meat or seafood
- Nuts roasted
- Olives sautéed
- Main course – Consider a protein and veggie mix when picking a main meal. Because of the breading and flour, proteins that are breaded or deep fried have more carbohydrate. The meal will be reduced in carbohydrates if the protein is crusted with nuts (such as almonds or pistachios). If you think you’ll need more food, many restaurants will let you order extra vegetables or a vegetable side dish.
Order without the bun if you want a burger, chicken, or seafood sandwich. Some people prefer to eat their sandwiches with a knife and fork, while others prefer to wrap their sandwiches in lettuce.
- Desserts – The majority of dessert options will be heavy in carbohydrate. However, if everyone else at your table is ordering one, you can feel left out if you’re the only one who hasn’t ordered one
If you’re in need of a sweet fix, sample your tablemate’s pick. You might only need a little teaspoon to satiate your curiosity.
You might even get a cup of tea or coffee and sip it while your dining buddies finish their dessert.
Restaurants aren’t off the table while you’re starting a low-carb diet. You don’t have to feel bad about going out to supper if you plan ahead and make healthy choices. When you’re on a diet, it’s simple to keep on track while still eating pleasantly!