Hungry for Chinese food? Wok this way. When most people think of healthy cuisine, Chinese food isn't the first thing that comes to mind, which is ironic. Traditional Asian fare actually is chock-full of vegetables, and meat and chicken are treated almost like condiments. Asian cuisine draws upon rice, beans, fish, nuts, grains and seeds as its main protein sources. Another key component is soy, such as tofu, miso and tempeh, which helps lower cholesterol and prevent cancers. But in the United States, it's a whole different bowl game. We've Americanized Chinese food and made it easier on the lips but heavier on the hips. For starters, prepare to pooh-pooh that platter. Fantail shrimp, egg rolls, spring rolls, fried rice, honey garlic chicken and other staples are hardly diet-friendly foods. In fact, they're loaded with fat and calories.
Among the other foods to avoid - anything tempura; battered and fried dishes such as General Tso's chicken and sweet and sour pork; any dishes with coconut milk; sweet and sour sauce; and salads with fried or crispy noodles. Healthy alternatives include egg drop, miso, wonton or hot and sour soup, stir-fries such as shrimp chow mein, steamed brown rice, edamame, cucumber salad and stir-fried veggies. Steamed vegetable dumplings are also a healthy way to start off the meal. Order main entrees that feature vegetables as a staple -- for example, beef with broccoli or chicken with vegetables. Last but not least, chop to it. Use those chopsticks - you'll eat slower and one piece at a time.