Nepalese Food: A Journey to Better Health in Cochrane's Food Scene

 

Are you looking for a new type of cuisine to try for your next meal? Look no further than Nepalese cuisine! Not only is it delicious, but it also has many surprising health benefits that you may not be aware of.

1. Ingredients High in Nutrients: Nepalese cuisine has a wide range of fresh vegetables, legumes, and lean proteins that are rich in nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

2. Balanced Diet: Nepalese Dishes are generally a perfect blend of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats making it one of the most balanced diets that promote energy level and satiety.

3. The Health Benefits of Spices: Most Nepalese dishes incorporate spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic, cumin, and coriander that not only act as flavor enhancers but also have potential health benefits such as anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

4. Foods with high fiber content: Nepalese diet is rich in fiber due to its staple ingredients like lentils, beans, and vegetables which make it a high-fiber diet supporting digestion, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, and promoting heart health.

5. Low in Processed Ingredients: Traditional Nepalese food is usually minimally processed which reduces the intake of artificial additives, preservatives, and excess sodium that can be harmful to health.

6. Immune-Boosting Properties: Various herbs and spices like turmeric and garlic, which have immune-boosting benefits, are a major part of Nepalese cuisine. 

7. Supports Heart Health: Emphasising fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, Nepalese cuisine makes up for one of the best heart-healthy diets, reducing heart-related problems like cardiovascular diseases.

8. Beneficial Fats: While being mindful of excessive oil usage, some Nepalese dishes incorporate healthy fats from sources like nuts and seeds, contributing to overall well-being.

9. Potential Weight Management: The combination of a balanced diet, fiber-rich foods, and portion control in Nepalese meals can aid in weight management and promote a healthy body weight.

10. Promotes Hydration: Many Nepalese dishes, such as soups and stews, have high water content, helping to keep the body hydrated and supporting various bodily functions.

Some of the healthiest dishes that nepalese cuisine has to offer are:

• Tarua: Tarua is a vegetable curry dish that typically includes a variety of vegetables like potatoes, beans, carrots, cauliflower, and green peas. These vegetables are rich in essential vitamins, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin K. They also provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion, supports gut health, and helps in maintaining a healthy weight. The combination of different vegetables in Tarua ensures a diverse nutrient profile, contributing to overall health and well-being.

• Roast Eggplant: Eggplant is a low-calorie vegetable and an excellent source of dietary fiber. The dietary fiber in eggplant helps regulate bowel movements, lower cholesterol levels, and stabilize blood sugar levels. Eggplants also contain antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Roasting the eggplant with minimal oil keeps the dish light and maintains the health benefits of this nutritious vegetable.

• Sukuti: Sukuti is a traditional Nepalese dried meat snack, often made with lean meats like buffalo or goat. Lean meats are a great source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body functions. Protein also helps in maintaining a feeling of fullness, making it a satisfying snack. However, due to its drying process, Sukuti can be high in sodium, so it's important to consume it in moderation

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• Choila: Choila is a Newari dish made with grilled or smoked meat, commonly chicken or buffalo. Grilling the meat helps reduce the overall fat content, making it a healthier option compared to fried dishes. Lean meat provides protein, which is crucial for muscle health and various body functions. However, the healthiness of Choila can depend on the amount of oil and spices used in the preparation, so it's best to enjoy it in moderation.

• Sekuwa: Sekuwa is a grilled meat dish that can be made with various types of meat like chicken, lamb, or pork. Grilling helps reduce excess fat, making it a healthier cooking method compared to frying. Lean meats used in Sekuwa offer a good amount of protein, necessary for muscle building and repair. Including grilled meats in the diet can be a flavorful way to consume essential nutrients.

• Sargemba: Sargemba is a salad-like dish made with a mix of vegetables, lentils, and sometimes cheese. This combination offers a variety of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and proteins. The inclusion of lentils provides an additional protein boost, while fresh vegetables offer vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health and immune function. Limiting the use of heavy dressings or sauces keeps Sargemba a lighter and more nutritious option.

• Thukpa: As mentioned earlier, Thukpa is a noodle soup that often includes vegetables and meat. This dish provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and various nutrients, making it a wholesome and nourishing meal. The broth used in Thukpa can be beneficial for hydration, and the addition of vegetables contributes vitamins and minerals, supporting overall well-being.

• Shyakpa: Shyakpa is a Tibetan-inspired noodle soup that typically includes meat and vegetables. Similar to Thukpa, Shyakpa offers a combination of essential nutrients, such as proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The warming nature of the soup makes it a comforting choice during colder weather, while the ingredients provide sustenance and energy for daily activities.

• Leg of Lamb: Lamb is a rich source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and growth. It also contains important nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Iron is vital for carrying oxygen in the blood and supporting energy levels. Zinc plays a role in immune function, wound healing, and metabolism. Vitamin B12 is necessary for nerve function and the production of red blood cells. Consumed in moderation, lean cuts of lamb can be a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

• Momo: Momo, when prepared with lean meats and a good balance of vegetables, can be a nutritious option. The filling inside momo often includes minced meat, which provides protein, while the outer dough provides carbohydrates. The combination of meat and vegetables in momo offers vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, it's essential to control the amount of oil and salt used in the preparation to maintain its healthiness.

Now, Let's get to the food scene in Cochrane. Healthy is the new trend, of course, and cochrane is definitely keeping up with it. Nepalese restaurants like Calgary Momo House, The Himalayan, Taste of Himalayas, and Aama Nepalese Cuisine are all over the place serving some of the best Nepalese food in Cochrane, Alberta.

The one that stands out the most out of all these is Aama Nepalese Cuisine. They serve Authentic Nepalese food keeping all the healthy elements of the cuisine intact. The Chef at Aama Nepalese Cuisine has skillfully mastered Nepalese Cuisine and has curated an immaculate menu that showcases the diverse flavors of Nepal. 

If you are in Cochrane and looking for some delicious healthy food, you must check out Aama Nepalese Cuisine.