Who does not like delicious foods, yet delicious foods are usually unhealthy because they usually contain high amount of salt, sugar and fats. For instance, fried foods are loved by many but they are probably high in trans fat, saturated fat, cholesterol and calories. Eating too much fried foods could not only make people overweight or even obese but also put them at high risk of developing many diseases including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke.
Healthy foods should be one that contain less fat with minimum amounts of salt and sugar, as well as with plenty of fibers. So how to make healthier foods delicious? There are a few ways to accomplish this.
Fats, especially saturated and trans fats, should be reduced. Fat from meat can be trimmed and the skin removed from poultry before cooking. Or one can choose less fatty meat. Lean pork, for example, is a good source of protein and has all the essential amino acids needed for the body. 100 grams of lean pork loin contain 29 grams of protein and 5 grams of fat, of which 2 grams is saturated fat. They also contain iron and Vitamin B like niacin, thiamin, B6 and B12.
Method of cooking plays a part, too. If frying is preferred, then a good non-stick pan should be used and the meat should be dry fried. Leaving out the oil could reduce 45 calories per teaspoon in the meal. If the food is drying out, a little water instead of more oil can be added. If oils are needed in the recipe, one can use those that are high in poly- and mono-unsaturated fats, say olive oil, and try using less than the recipe suggests.
Salt should be cut down by using alternative seasonings like pepper, herbs, spices, lemon juice, vinegar or mustard. Salt is responsible for causing high blood pressure that in turn would lead to heart disease and stroke. Sugar, which increases calories and causes people fat, should also be reduced. Most cakes will still taste good even if the quantity of sugar is halved. Items like fruit cakes, fruit scones and tea breads can be made without adding sugar as the dried fruit will provide the necessary sweetness.
Besides eating more fruits and vegetables, one can also increase the fiber content of recipes by using brown alternatives of rice, pasta and bread. In doing so, one can feel fuller for longer. Mix wholemeal and plain flour to bake instead of using all plain white flour in recipes, or when making apple crumble, add porridge oats to make the top crunchy and add more fibers.
