A Taste of Wellness: The 5 Most Nutrient-Rich Nepali Foods

 

Do you know the most beautiful feeling? It's eating your favourite meal without a hint of guilt. Many individuals enjoy their favourite dishes, only to be haunted by concerns about their nutritional content. Let's face it, healthy and nutritious food doesn't always excite the taste buds—more often than not, it falls short. The irresistible attraction of unhealthy food lies in its amazing taste, warming our hearts and satisfying our cravings. Truth be told, these unhealthy yet mouthwatering temptations have a magnetic pull, often forcing us to keep eating beyond consideration. This frequent consumption leaves us burdened with a sense of regret, arising from unwanted calories and undesirable nutrients that go into our bodies, giving rise to several health issues.

But you know what, not all healthy nutritious foods taste bland. Yes, you heard that right!

Nepalese cuisine is known for offering some of the most delicious and healthy dishes with various guilt-free options. Traditional Nepalese dishes offer a wide range of unique dishes infused with authentic spices and herbs. These ingredients collectively make these dishes loved by people from all across the world. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best guilt-free options offered in the Nepali food menu and find the best place to eat in Cochrane.

The Role of Nutrition in Nepali Culture

The dietary practices and nutritional choices in Nepal are deeply linked with the country's traditions, geography, climate, and cultural diversity. Here, we explore the significant role of nutrition in Nepali culture:

1. Traditional Food Staples- Traditional Nepali cuisine makes the usage of traditional food staples such as lentils, vegetables, and rice. These traditional staples have been used in cooking Nepali food for centuries as they are a rich source of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

2. Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Diets- Nepalese cuisine offers a wide selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that cater to several dietary preferences. These selections provide essential nutrients and help in staying healthy.

3. Spices and Seasonings- Different types of herbs and spices are commonly used in the preparation of traditional Nepali dishes. These spices usually include turmeric, ginger, garlic, coriander, black pepper, cardamom, and cumin. These spices not only enhance the taste of the food but also provide several health benefits. 

4. Fermented Foods- Fermented foods like gundruk (fermented leafy greens) and dhido (buckwheat porridge) are common in the Nepali diet. These foods contribute to gut health and provide probiotics, which are important for digestion.

5. Sustainability- Traditional Nepali agriculture and food production methods focus on sustainability. Farming practices are often organic, and reliance on locally sourced ingredients reduces the carbon footprint associated with food production.

The Top 15 Healthiest Nepali Foods

We have prepared a list of 5 most healthy and nutrient-rich traditional Nepalese dishes that you must try for a delicious and healthy experience:

1. Dal Bhat

Dal Bhat is the most popular and common staple among traditional Nepali dishes. A majority of the population consumes Dal Bhat regularly as it is easy to prepare and also offers several health benefits. The dish features “dal” lentils, which are simmered to perfection. Different types of lentils such as yellow, red, or black, can be used in its preparation. The Dal is cooked with different herbs such as turmeric, coriander, and cumin giving it an earthy flavour. “Bhat” or rice is paired with dal which offers a satisfying and healthy feeling.

Nutritional Benefits:

• High Protein- Lentils in dal are an excellent source of plant-based protein. They offer essential amino acids and are a staple in vegetarian and vegan diets. Protein is vital for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health. 

• Rich in Fiber- Lentils and rice provide a good amount of dietary fibre. Fibre helps in digestion and maintains healthy bowel movements. They also provide a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.

• Vitamins and Minerals- Dal Bhat offers a range of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, iron, and potassium, which are vital for overall health.

• Balanced Meal- The combination of dal and rice forms a balanced meal that includes both protein and carbohydrates. This balance ensures energy levels and can be important in a country like Nepal, where physical activities, such as trekking and farming, are common.

2. Sukuti 

Sukuti is a popular Nepali snack or side dish made from dried meat, usually Yak, buffalo or goat. It is prepared by marinating thin strips of meat in a blend of spices and then sun-drying them until they become dry, firm, and chewy. The marination includes ingredients like turmeric, cumin, chilli, garlic, and ginger, giving a flavorful and spicy taste to the meat.

Nutritional Benefits:

• High-Quality Protein- The drying process directs the protein content, making it an excellent snack for those looking to increase their protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.

• Low in Fat- The drying process reduces the fat content of the meat, making sukuti a relatively low-fat snack. This can be beneficial for those watching their fat intake.

• Versatile Ingredient- Sukuti can be used as an ingredient in various Nepali dishes, such as Sukuti Khaja Set (a platter that includes sukuti with beaten rice and other condiments).

3. Momos 

Momos are one of the most beloved dishes served in traditional Nepali restaurants in Cochrane. These little pockets of love are made by rolling small and thin sheets of dough. These are generally filled with minced meat (such as chicken, yak, paneer, veggies, and buffalo) and a blend of spices. The dough is made from wheat flour, water, and a pinch of salt. 

The dumplings are shaped like small, half-moon pockets and are then either steamed or pan-fried. 

Nutritional Benefits:

• Protein-Rich- Momos offer a good source of protein, especially when filled with meat. The protein content is essential for muscle growth and repair. 

• Balanced Ingredients- Depending on the filling, momos can be a balanced meal with a blend of proteins, carbohydrates from the dough, and various nutrients from the vegetables and spices used in the filling.

• Moderate Fat Content- While the filling may contain some fat, it's typically moderate, making momos a well-rounded option for those looking for a balanced meal.

• Hygiene Considerations- Because momos are typically steamed or pan-fried, they are often prepared with minimal added oil, making them a relatively healthy option.

4. Yak Meat

Yak meat is a nutrient-rich source of protein found in traditional Nepali cuisine, particularly in the mountainous regions of the country. Their meat is prized for its flavour and nutritional benefits. Yak meat is often prepared in various ways, including grilling, stewing, or making traditional dishes like "thukpa" (a noodle soup) and "sha phaley" (a type of meat-filled pastry). 

Nutritional Benefits:

• High-Quality Protein- Yak meat is a valuable source of high-quality animal protein, providing essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health. 

• Low in Fat- Yak meat is naturally lean, which can be appealing to individuals looking to reduce their fat intake. The low fat content makes it a healthy protein source.

• Rich in Nutrients- Yak meat contains various essential nutrients, including vitamins such as B vitamins (e.g., B12, niacin) and minerals like iron and zinc. These nutrients are important for energy production, red blood cell formation, and immune system function.

5. Kwati (Mixed Bean Soup)

The word "kwati" refers to a mixture of legumes and beans. It is prepared by soaking nine types of beans, including black-eyed peas, green gram, soybeans, chickpeas, and more. After soaking, the beans are boiled and then seasoned with a blend of spices.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Protein-Rich- The blend of beans in kwati makes it a protein-rich dish, suitable for vegetarians and vegans looking for alternative protein sources. 

• Dietary Fiber- The legumes in kwati are rich in dietary fibre, which supports digestive health, helps maintain regular bowel movements, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness.

• Iron Content- Some of the beans in kwati, such as black-eyed peas, are good sources of iron. Iron is crucial for the formation of red blood cells and the transport of oxygen in the body.

Where To Find The Healthiest Nepalese Dishes In Cochrane?

Eating out is probably one of the best feelings that we all look forward to. And it is even better if eating out is healthy and guilt-free. Often finding the best place to eat in Cochrane can be a little bit of detective work. But do not worry we have got you covered. Aama Nepalese situated in Cochrane is known for its flavourful and traditional Nepali dishes. As an authentic Nepalese restaurant in Cochrane, Aama ensures each dish they prepare takes your taste buds back to Nepal and offers an experience like never before. Their hygienic and climate-conscious food preparation ensures quality dishes and sustainability in the long run.