How Many Calories in a Chinese Takeaway?

Chinese takeout food is a popular option for many people looking for a quick and easy meal. However, it’s important to be aware of the calorie content of these foods in order to maintain a healthy diet. In this article, we will take a closer look at the calorie content of various Chinese takeout dishes and provide tips for making healthier choices when ordering Chinese food.

One of the most popular Chinese dishes is General Tso’s chicken, which is typically made with deep-fried chicken that is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. A typical serving of General Tso’s chicken can contain up to 600 calories, as well as high levels of sodium and fat.

Another popular Chinese dish is Kung Pao chicken, which is made with stir-fried chicken, peanuts, and vegetables in a spicy sauce. A typical serving of Kung Pao chicken can contain around 500 calories, as well as high levels of sodium and fat.

Fried rice is another common Chinese dish that can be high in calories. A typical serving of fried rice can contain up to 600 calories, as well as high levels of sodium and fat. To make fried rice a healthier option, you can ask for it to be made with less oil and less salt, or opt for brown rice instead of white rice.

First, let’s take a look at some popular Chinese takeout dishes and their approximate calorie counts. Keep in mind that these are approximate values and may vary depending on the specific restaurant or preparation method.

General Tso’s chicken: 600-800 calories per serving

Sesame chicken: 600-800 calories per serving

Kung Pao chicken: 600-800 calories per serving

Sweet and sour chicken: 600-800 calories per serving

Beef and broccoli: 600-800 calories per serving

Fried rice: 500-700 calories per serving

Lo mein: 800-1000 calories per serving

It’s worth noting that these dishes are often high in fat and sodium as well. Many are breaded and fried, which can add a significant amount of fat and calories. Additionally, many Chinese takeout dishes are also high in sodium, which can be harmful to people with high blood pressure or other health conditions.

To make healthier choices when ordering Chinese takeout, consider the following tips:

Opt for steamed or stir-fried dishes instead of breaded and fried dishes

Ask for dishes to be made with less oil or sauce

Choose dishes with more vegetables and less meat

Share a dish with a friend or family member to reduce portion sizes

Consider ordering brown rice instead of white rice

If you are trying to watch your calorie intake when ordering Chinese takeout, it is important to pay attention to portion sizes as well. A large serving of a dish can contain significantly more calories than a smaller serving.

In conclusion, Chinese takeout can be high in calories, particularly dishes that are deep-fried or stir-fried in oil. However, by understanding the calorie count of different Chinese dishes and being mindful of portion sizes, you can still enjoy Chinese takeout while making healthier choices.

In addition, you can also prepare Chinese food at home using healthy ingredients, such as lean proteins and lots of vegetables. This allows you to control the amount of oil and sodium used in the dish, and can also be a fun and cost-effective way to enjoy Chinese food.

In conclusion, Chinese takeout food can be a delicious and convenient option for a quick meal. However, it’s important to be aware of the calorie content of these foods in order to maintain a healthy diet. By making healthier choices and opting for steamed or stir-fried dishes, choosing dishes with more vegetables and less meat, and preparing Chinese food at home, you can enjoy your favorite Chinese dishes while still maintaining a healthy diet.