Published on: 03 November 2018
Last Updated on: 01 August 2024
One of the best parts about travelling is trying out the local cuisine. Not only are you introduced to the city’s culture, but you’re also given a taste of what it feels like to be at home. Hunting for delicacies in Manhattan’s Upper West Side restaurants in NYC is not just about looking for the best, but also finding the right price to match it with. You might take a while looking here and there for the right amount, but it’s well worth the adventure as the items on this list range from your local street snack to a full and hearty meal.
Doubles:
A cheap find for anyone looking for a light snack. Doubles are made up of puffed-out flatbread surrounding chickpea curry. The combination of sweet and spicy sauces makes it a simple morning wake-up meal or an afternoon delight.
Hotdogs:
The beef sausage was historically brought by German immigrants who turned the dogs into a favorite beach food near Coney Island. Topped off with a simple mix of mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup hotdogs quickly turned into staple snacks for events and small breaks. The delicacy would range from being hot on the bun, on a stick, to becoming more intricate dishes from sliced to grilled. Hotdogs can be found in food carts, train terminals, and even featured as a special in some restaurants.
Bagels:
A great way to welcome your mornings, bagels can be confused as a pure bread creation, but its stuffing can include strawberry jam with a topping of butter. A great companion to early morning coffee, the mix of sugar and caffeine is a winning combination to start your day.
Subs:
Sandwiches and wraps are common finds at stalls and subway stations. A quick bite to eat, subs are often a mix of the familiar and the unfamiliar. The Kasbah Grill’s Cajun Chicken Sub is a creative take which turns the entrée into a pocket meal.
Fried Chicken:
With numerous franchise establishments selling their brand of chicken, you’d be curious to find out where they began. New York fried chicken was initially brought from the South, with a simple coating of seasoned flour deep fried in a skillet.
Pizza:
The Italians’ gift to New York in the 1950s which started an international debate of which is better, Italian or New York style pizza? The developed method in Manhattan changed the formula bit by bit through the generations and earned its place to make its own identity as the greasy cheese-laden pie that we all know and love.
Clam Chowder:
Not all items on this list are heavy meals. White clam chowder has its roots in Native American culture that explains its seasoning of onions and bacon together with potatoes. Red clam chowder has a different history far beyond White Clam chowder’s roots. Brought by the Italian-Americans, the Clam Chowder is an iconic soup dish that’s seasoned with a tomato base and with a stinging taste of clam as its base.
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Mexican food is famous for its spices and flavors.
However, many people are confused about whether they can include Mexican food in a healthy lifestyle or not. Actually, there are plenty of misconceptions about Mexican cuisine.
In fact, healthy Mexican food options are many, and you can easily include certain dishes into your balanced diet.
In this article, you will learn about various healthy Mexican food options to include in your balanced diet. Apart from that, you will also get to know the health benefits of each item.
Moreover, this article will also explain why people commonly misunderstand Mexican food as unhealthy. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.
A General Overview of Healthy Mexican Cuisine
The Mexican cuisine is famous for its rich flavors, diverse ingredients, and cultural significance. Hence, there are multiple healthy food options available as well.
Actually, a lot of Mexican food has a lot to teach us about nutrition. In fact, apart from the staple food items, there are quite a lot of additional factors to consider.
For example, there are some special healthy Mexican ingredients, including pumpkin, chia seeds, cactus, etc., which are quite popular among health-conscious people.
Apart from that, you will find a lot of vegetables in Mexican food. These include tomatoes, avocados, bell peppers, chili peppers, etc.
Hence, there is never a shortage of vitamins, minerals, and fibers. Additionally, many traditional Mexican food items include lean protein sources, like chicken, beans, and fish. Basically, you can use them as excellent options to maintain a healthy diet.
Why Is Mexican Food Often Misunderstood As Unhealthy?
Generally, the misconceptions about Mexican foods are due to the way many restaurants and food stalls prepare them in the US. For instance, you will frequently find high amounts of cream, cheese, and fried items on top of ingredients.
The following are some of the major reasons why many people misunderstand Mexican food as unhealthy:
Many Mexican restaurants in the US offer dishes that have large portions of sour cream, cheese, and deep-fried items. Hence, this increases your calorie count after consumption.
In many cases, Mexican dishes do not use lard. In fact, there are many healthier cooking options.
Restaurants generally serve large portion sizes of Mexican dishes. So, obviously, they contribute to overeating. Therefore, if you want to eat healthy at a Mexican restaurant, you might face difficulties.
When it comes to healthier food options, there are many dishes you can consider – legumes, grilled meats, vegetables, whole grains, etc. Basically, when you want to have Mexican food, you must make healthy choices.
For example, you must choose lean protein, grilled items, and control cheese and cream portions. This way, you can enjoy Mexican food even when you are maintaining a balanced diet.
15 Healthy Mexican Food Items And Their Health Benefits
The following are some of the best and healthy Mexican food items for you if you are on a balanced diet:
1. Beans
This is a staple source of fiber, protein, and iron for Mexicans. Apart from that, it also helps you to stay full.
Additionally, if you consume it on a regular basis, it will help you lower your cholesterol levels. Moreover, beans also help you to boost your heart health and help to maintain blood sugar levels.
2. Guacamole
The major health benefit of guacamole comes from avocados. Basically, avocadoes are monounsaturated fat and hence help to lower bad cholesterol. Also, since avocados have high fiber, it helps you to maintain your digestive tract.
Additionally, there is also no risk of colon cancer. Moreover, avocados also ensure eye health and skin health and prevent inflammation.
3. Salsa
Salsa is a good addition to your diet. With it, you can add more flavor to your food without adding excess sugar, salt, or additional fat.
Apart from that, it also contains various vitamins and minerals. In addition to that, salsa is also high in fiber and antioxidants. As a result, it will help you to remove harmful toxins from your body.
4. Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a lean and high-quality protein option. Hence, it can help you to build and repair your muscle tissues.
Apart from that, it will help you to maintain a healthy immune system and facilitate muscle growth. In addition to that, lean chicken also improves your bone health and helps you fight infection in your body.
5. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Quesadillas
Basically, sweet potatoes are full of nutritional qualities. For instance, it is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Apart from that, they also add a little sweetness to the quesadillas.
As a result, it complements the earthy flavor of black beans. On the other hand, black beans come with a good amount of protein.
6. Vegetarian Enchiladas
When you make enchiladas with whole grain tortillas, vegetables, beans, and lean protein, you can control the calories. Basically, enchiladas offer you a balance of fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients.
Moreover, you can also boost your protein and vitamin intake if you want. However, one tortilla of vegetarian enchiladas contains 580 calories (approx.).
7. Brown Rice
Brown rice is primarily a whole grain which will help you reduce the risk of stroke or any other heart diseases. This is because of the presence of magnesium.
Moreover, it also helps in controlling blood sugar since brown rice has a lower glycemic index than white rice. Furthermore, vitamins and minerals also ensure a healthy immune system.
8. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are filled with vitamins and minerals. Also, when you grill vegetables, it reduces the amount of fat in vegetables. As a result, it becomes easier to digest. Moreover, with grilling, you can bring out the natural sweetness of vegetables.
9. Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
If you want a low-calorie, grain-free carb, the cilantro lime cauliflower rice is a better option. Moreover, the recipe is vegan and gluten-free.
This can be a great alternative to traditional white rice. Apart from that, due to the presence of vitamins and minerals, it is a healthy Mexican food option.
10. Corn on the Cob
Due to its high fiber content, corn helps in maintaining bowel health and helps in preventing constipation.
Apart from that, corn also contains antioxidants, folate, potassium, and plant sterols. This will help you to lower cholesterol levels. Apart from that, it will also help you to support heart health.
11. Zucchini
Zucchini has high fiber and water content. This helps in the digestion process and reduces the risk of constipation. Additionally, since zucchini is low in carbs, it also helps you to regulate blood sugar levels.
12. Fresh Tomatoes
Generally, tomatoes contain potassium, which helps to regular blood pressure in the body. Moreover, since they release antioxidants, they can also help prevent cancer.
Additionally, if you consume a tomato-rich diet, you can ensure better digestion. Furthermore, you will have an improved immune system.
13. Shrimp Ceviche
Shrimp ceviche is healthy because it is high in protein content. Apart from that, it also comes with a good number of vitamins and minerals.
As a result, it not only helps to build muscles but also ensures bone health, immunity, and nerve function. Moreover, if you are following a low-calorie diet to lose weight, shrimp ceviche is a healthy Mexican food option.
14. Pozole
It is a stew that is rich in protein. Here, for each cup you consume, you get 18 grams of protein. Additionally, it also contains fiber.
However, you can add more fiber to it by adding vegetables like avocado or cabbage. This will help you to digest your food better.
15. Chicken And Vegetable Tacos
Since chicken is a lean source of protein, it provides amino acids for muscle building. Moreover, it is also a good source of vitamin B. On the other hand, vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Hence, with a combination of chicken and vegetables, you can have a healthy diet.
Try Your Favorite Healthy Mexican Food Now
Hence, you can see that there are plenty of healthy Mexican food options. However, this is not common in the US because most Mexican restaurants in this country serve Mexican food items with a lot of oil, spices, and cream.
Hence, it looks unhealthy to common people. Therefore, if you want to have a healthy Mexican diet, you have a lot of choices.
Do you have more suggestions on healthy Mexican food items? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.
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The number of people who enjoy delicious seafood is consistently expanding all around the world. Its adaptability and nutritional value have made it a household favorite.
While cooking and serving chicken, turkey, lamb, and other meats are easier, seafood requires a lot of technique, even if it takes less time to prepare.
Most fish and seafood meals don't require any special equipment or cookware, but even simple pan-fried salmon filets taste better when cooked in a pan or skillet with low edges that allow you to easily turn the fish.
Additionally, having kitchen tools dedicated to fish and seafood is more hygienic—a spatula used frequently for fish can acquire a strong odor that you don't want on your French toast. As a result, purchasing specific utensils and cookware for fish and seafood is a good idea.
Each sea creature has its unique set of culinary challenges. While shrimp can readily be peeled from their shells, crabs and lobsters must be cooked in their shells before being cracked apart.
Fish must be scaled and peeled (certain fish) by fishbone tweezers at Fish Me. As you can see, seafood preparation necessitates the use of specialist equipment.
1. A-parts Multipurpose Seafood Scissors Are the Best Shrimp Deveiner
Although you can buy peeled and deveined shrimp these days, it's always a good idea to have a tool on hand. Since it's designed for multiple activities, this tool won't get forgotten in the back of a drawer waiting to be used.
When peeling shrimp, it works in the same way as other deveiners, by slipping the tip beneath the shell and then opening the scissors to remove the shell quickly.
The scissors movement isn't merely for leverage like it is with other deveiners. These are really cute, so they may be used to easily serve lobster shells or crab legs. The blades are composed of robust, food-safe stainless steel, and the handles are comfortable to hold.
2. Fishbone tweezers
Fish contain a large number of microscopic pin bones that can be easily removed with a set of fishbone pliers or tweezers. These are extremely useful for removing pin bones from filets of fish.
What else to look for in Seafood and Fishing Tools
1. Cookware
Seafood recipes are frequently prepared on the stovetop and finished in the oven or broiler. Look for the oven- and broiler-safe cookware, which eliminates the need to transfer the dish to another pan, which might break apart delicate shellfish and leave you with more dishes to clean. A microwave-safe seafood pan is also available.
2. Dishes to Serve
Consider what you'll most likely use it for and whether the dish is large enough to accommodate it, such as when serving a whole fish.
The food looks misplaced and cools fast on big serving platters. If you're unsure, go with a smaller serving dish—you can always refill it.
3. Tool Use
If you shuck oysters at least once a week, a tool with a particular purpose, such as an oyster knife, makes the most sense. Other tools are more versatile and can be used for a variety of shellfish as well as other items like almonds.
Final words
Purchase some beautiful caviar spoons if you're serving caviar. A rolling pin, tongs, kitchen scissors, knives, and a chopping board are also required for making octopus.
Simpler kitchen tools can be used to replace some of the items. So, if you believe you have a better idea, go ahead and try it. Alternatively, to make things easier, you can buy a kit. Furthermore, if you know someone who enjoys seafood, consider giving them a set of these items as a gift.
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Fad diets are always trying to do something new, promising to improve your health the way no diet ever has before. Often, if these diets aren’t just trying to sell you something, their principles are based on ‘bro science’ or common nutrition myths.
The truth is that we don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Many cultures around the world have been eating well for millennia, striking the right balance between all the necessary components of a good diet.
Today, we’re looking at China's approach to food, which has captured the attention of both food enthusiasts and health experts globally. And with nearly half of Americans actively trying to lose weight, according to this study by ValuePenguin, the timing couldn’t be better. Let’s delve into why the Chinese diet is celebrated as one of the healthiest in the world.
A Balanced Approach
At the heart of the Chinese diet lies a profound emphasis on equilibrium. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the belief in harmonizing the body's yin and yang energies is at the core of well-being. This holistic philosophy extends gracefully to the realm of cuisine, where achieving balance in one's diet is regarded as a bedrock principle.
Chinese culinary traditions beautifully exemplify this equilibrium, artfully integrating a spectrum of tastes, textures, and culinary techniques. The result is a culinary experience that engages all five essential flavors – sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami.
Staples of the Chinese Diet
Every good meal needs a healthy foundation, and this is something the Chinese have been nailing forever. Rice or wheat is usually the most common base of nutritious meals. Furthermore, these grains provide a steady source of carbohydrates, ensuring sustained energy throughout the day. Unlike processed and refined grains, Chinese cuisine favors whole grains, preserving essential nutrients and fiber.
In addition to grains, vegetables play a central role in Chinese cooking. A variety of leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and seasonal produce brighten up Chinese dinner tables, offering a wealth of vitamins and minerals. These vegetables are often gently cooked or stir-fried, preserving their nutritional value. The inclusion of vegetables also ensures a high fiber content in the diet, supporting digestive health and promoting a sense of fullness.
Fish, poultry, tofu, and legumes are common in Chinese cuisine, with these protein options often being preferred over red meat. Fish, in particular, provides valuable omega-3 fatty acids, renowned for their heart-protective properties. This combination of protein and veggies has helped China claim the top spot in this Compare the Market study of the world’s healthiest diets.
Embracing Seasonal and Local Ingredients
The Chinese diet's healthiness shines through its emphasis on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, aligning with traditional beliefs of harmony with nature. Seasonal foods offer peak flavor and nutrition while reducing the need for preservatives and long transportation.
Furthermore, the Chinese diet integrates traditional wisdom into its culinary practices. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) introduces the idea of food as medicine, with specific ingredients chosen for their restorative and strengthening effects.
For instance, ginger helps to combat colds and enhance digestion. On the other hand, goji berries have the power to boost the immune system. This blend of ancient knowledge with food choices contributes to the diet's reputation as one of the healthiest globally.
Portion Control and Mindful Eating
In addition to the quality and variety of foods, portion control and mindful eating practices are integral to the Chinese diet. Usually, meals are nothing less than family-style, with multiple dishes in the center of the table. This communal dining style encourages moderation and mindful consumption. By serving food in smaller portions and sharing, it becomes easier to control calorie intake and prevent overeating.
Furthermore, the Chinese approach to eating is full of mindfulness. Eating slowly, savoring each bite, and paying attention to the flavors and textures of food are common practices. This not only enhances the dining experience but also allows the body to register satiety more accurately.
Mindful eating promotes a deeper connection between the mind and body, reducing the risk of overindulgence and promoting overall well-being. If you’d like to try it yourself, Headspace has this free useful guide you can read.
The Changing Approach Towards Chinese Diet
The Chinese have a reputation for consuming a lower aggregate diet, which eventually impacts their later development. People belonging to some of the rural civilizations think it might be unfair to ask people to give up on meat completely. In countries like Brazil and China, the consumption of meat is a sign of economic as well as social progress.
There is an increasing demand for vegan food as well. A maximum of the total population wants to switch to a healthier alternative, keeping health concerns in mind. This has continued to have a positive impact on both their physical and mental well-being. Fat-free beverages, green vegetables, and more fruits and beans are now included in a traditional Chinese diet.
As a result, there is an increase in the number of healthy babies produced every year. Individuals tend to have better immunizations against diseases, and they typically live longer. Health experts say while this might not be the result of health consumption solely, food certainly has an enhanced effect on overall well-being.
Wrap-Up
The Chinese diet, with its emphasis on balance, staple foods, seasonal and local ingredients, and mindful eating, serves as a model for optimal health. Its diverse array of flavors, ingredients, and deep-rooted wisdom makes it a blueprint for healthy eating practices.
By embracing the principles of the Chinese diet, from moderation to variety, and the incorporation of fresh, individuals worldwide can take strides toward improving their health. Unprocessed ingredients are the key to remaining healthy and strong.
While no single diet is a magic solution, the Chinese approach to food offers valuable insights into maintaining a nutritious and balanced lifestyle that contributes to longevity and vitality. If you are diet-conscious, ensure to integrate the aforementioned tips to make your lifestyle better and healthier. Thank you for reading!
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