10 Healthy South Indian Meals with Less Than 100 Calories

South Indian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients, but many dishes can be quite calorie-dense. However, with a few tweaks and smart choices, you can enjoy flavorful South Indian meals that are both healthy and low in calories. Here are ten South Indian dishes, each under 100 calories, to keep your meals light and nutritious.

1. Idli

Idli is a classic South Indian breakfast item made from fermented rice and urad dal (black gram) batter. Steamed to perfection, these soft, spongy cakes are light and low in calories. Two medium-sized idlis contain approximately 70 calories. Pair them with a small serving of sambar (vegetable stew) for a wholesome meal.

2. Sambar

Sambar is a spicy, tangy lentil soup packed with vegetables. Made with tamarind, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, sambar is both nutritious and low in calories. A cup of sambar has around 80 calories. Enjoy it with a few pieces of idli or a small portion of brown rice.

3. Vegetable Upma

Upma is a savory semolina (rava) dish cooked with vegetables and spices. By using minimal oil and incorporating a variety of vegetables, you can keep this dish light and healthy. A half-cup serving of vegetable upma contains approximately 90 calories.

4. Rasam

Rasam is a tangy, spicy soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, and various spices. It’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful broth without many calories. A serving of rasam (about one cup) contains around 60 calories. It’s perfect for sipping on its own or with a side of steamed rice.

5. Cucumber Raita

Cucumber raita is a cooling yogurt-based side dish mixed with fresh cucumber and spices. It’s low in calories and high in nutrients. A half-cup serving of cucumber raita has about 50 calories. It makes an excellent accompaniment to spicy main dishes.

6. Vegetable Dosa (without oil)

Dosa is a thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter. For a healthier option, prepare it without oil and add a filling of mixed vegetables. A plain vegetable dosa of about 6 inches in diameter contains approximately 90 calories.

7. Methi Thepla

Methi thepla is a whole wheat flatbread made with fenugreek leaves and spices. It is nutritious and can be kept low in calories by using minimal oil. One small methi thepla has about 80 calories. Pair it with a side of low-fat yogurt for a balanced meal.

8. Tomato Rice (with less oil)

Tomato rice is a flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes and spices. By using less oil and incorporating brown rice or quinoa, you can make a low-calorie version. A small serving of tomato rice (about half a cup) contains approximately 90 calories.

9. Palak Soup

Palak (spinach) soup is a nutrient-packed, low-calorie option made from fresh spinach and spices. It’s light and soothing, with about 70 calories per serving. Enjoy it as a starter or alongside a small portion of rice or roti.

10. Moong Dal Chilla

Moong dal chilla is a savory pancake made from ground moong dal (green gram) and spices. It’s high in protein and low in calories. One moong dal chilla, made with minimal oil, contains about 90 calories. It’s a great option for breakfast or a light snack.

Conclusion

Enjoying South Indian cuisine doesn’t have to mean compromising on your calorie goals. By opting for these low-calorie, nutritious options, you can savor the rich flavors and health benefits of South Indian dishes while keeping your meals light. Incorporate these recipes into your diet for a delicious and health-conscious approach to South Indian cooking.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright