When you walk into a Chinese restaurant, the menu is often filled with tempting options that can make your mouth water. However, not every dish is a great choice for your health. In fact, there are 13 unhealthy Chinese restaurant foods you should avoid. These are usually the crispy, fried items and sugary sauces, which are packed with calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats that can derail your wellness goals.
It's easy to get swept up in the excitement of flavors, but being aware of what you're ordering can make a big difference. Instead of reaching for those popular but unhealthy favorites, you can opt for lighter choices that still deliver on taste. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the Chinese restaurant foods you should always think twice about before ordering.
Lo Mein
Featuring soft, boiled noodles tossed with a variety of vegetables and proteins, lo mein is often flavored with soy sauce and other seasonings. The dish can include ingredients such as bell peppers, carrots, and bok choy, making it colorful and visually appealing. However, the high carbohydrate content from the noodles and the potential for added oils and sauces can lead to a calorie-dense meal. It's advisable to consume this dish in moderation, especially when dining out.
Dumplings
Dumplings are small pockets of dough filled with various ingredients, commonly including meat and vegetables. They can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, each method offering a different texture and flavor profile. While they can be a source of protein and nutrients, the frying method, in particular, increases their calorie count and fat content. Dumplings are often served with dipping sauces, which can further add to the sodium and sugar levels, making them a dish to be mindful of when dining out.
Moo Shu Pork
Moo shu pork consists of stir-fried pork mixed with vegetables such as cabbage, mushrooms, and carrots. The dish is often served with thin pancakes or tortillas, allowing diners to wrap the mixture and enjoy it in a handheld format. Traditionally, it is flavored with hoisin sauce, which adds a sweet and savory element. While it can be a fun and interactive meal, the high sodium content from the sauce and the calories from the pork can make it a less healthy option if consumed frequently.
Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and sour soup is a traditional dish that combines a variety of ingredients, including tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots, in a broth that is both spicy and tangy. The soup is thickened with cornstarch and flavored with vinegar and white pepper, giving it a distinctive taste. While it can be a warming and comforting choice, many restaurant versions contain high levels of sodium and may include additives that could detract from its nutritional value. It's best enjoyed in moderation or made at home for healthier alternatives.
Beef Chow Fun
Made with wide rice noodles, this dish features stir-fried beef along with vegetables like bean sprouts and scallions. The noodles are usually flavored with soy sauce, which gives them a rich, savory taste. While it can be a fulfilling meal, the use of fatty cuts of beef and the cooking method can result in a high calorie and sodium count. Opting for leaner meats and requesting less sauce can help create a healthier version of this popular dish, making it more suitable for regular consumption.
Chow Mein
Chow mein is a popular dish made from stir-fried noodles, which can be either crispy or soft, depending on the preparation method. The noodles are typically tossed with a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and bean sprouts, along with proteins like chicken, beef, or shrimp. The dish is flavored with soy sauce and other seasonings, giving it a savory taste. However, the high sodium content from the sauces and the potential for added oils make it a dish to consume in moderation.
Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and sour pork is characterized by its vibrant sauce, which combines sugar, vinegar, ketchup, or other sweeteners. The pork is usually fried until crispy, giving it a crunchy texture that contrasts with the thick, tangy sauce. This dish often includes bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, adding a variety of flavors and colors. While this dish is popular, the high sugar and fat content can lead to excessive calorie intake, making it a dish best enjoyed in moderation.
Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are typically made by wrapping a mixture of vegetables and sometimes meat in a thin pastry shell, which is then deep-fried until golden brown. The crispy exterior gives way to a filling that can include cabbage, carrots, and other ingredients, often seasoned for added flavor. While they are a popular appetizer, the frying process increases the calorie content, and they can be high in unhealthy fats. They are often served with sweet and sour sauce, which adds additional sugar.
Peking Duck
Known for its crispy skin and tender meat, this dish is often prepared by air-drying the duck and then roasting it until the skin is perfectly crisp. Traditionally served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced vegetables, it allows diners to create their own wraps. While it is a celebratory dish in Chinese cuisine, the high fat content from the skin and the calorie count can be significant. As a result, it is typically enjoyed on special occasions rather than as a regular meal choice.
Fried Rice
Fried rice is a dish that combines cooked rice with various ingredients, such as vegetables, eggs, and meat, all stir-fried together in a wok. This method can create a flavorful, hearty meal, but the addition of oils and sauces can significantly increase the calorie count. Common ingredients include peas, carrots, and onions, often seasoned with soy sauce. While it can be a convenient way to use leftover rice, the high sodium content and excess calories make it a dish to approach with caution.
Kung Pao Shrimp
This dish typically includes shrimp stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili peppers. The combination of textures from the crunchy peanuts and tender shrimp creates an interesting dish. While shrimp is a lean protein, the sauce can be high in sodium and sugar, and the addition of fried elements can increase the calorie content. Being mindful of portion sizes and preparation methods can help make it a healthier choice.
Beef with Broccoli
This dish features tender slices of beef stir-fried with broccoli florets, usually in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and oyster sauce. The combination of beef and broccoli creates a visually appealing dish that is often served with rice. While broccoli is a nutritious vegetable packed with vitamins and minerals, the sauce can be high in sodium, and the beef may contain fatty cuts, contributing to a higher calorie count. It’s a popular choice, but should be consumed mindfully.
General Tso's Chicken
This dish features chicken pieces that are typically battered and deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior. The chicken is then coated in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce, often made with soy sauce, sugar, ginger, and garlic. The combination of flavors creates a rich, complex profile that many people find appealing. Served with steamed broccoli or other vegetables, it can be a colorful addition to the plate. However, the high sugar content and calorie count make it a less healthy choice when dining out.
Fortune Cookies Can't Save You Now
Navigating a Chinese restaurant menu doesn't have to be overwhelming. By being aware of which dishes can be less healthy, you can make smarter choices that align with your wellness goals. It’s all about balance—enjoying the flavors you love while also considering the impact on your health. Remember, it’s perfectly fine to treat yourself occasionally, but knowing what to avoid can help you feel better in the long run.
Next time you sit down for some Chinese food, keep these tips in mind. Look for dishes that are steamed or stir-fried with plenty of vegetables, and don’t hesitate to ask for sauces on the side. With a little thought, you can enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. So go ahead, explore the menu, and make choices that leave you feeling great. Eating out should be a pleasure, and with the right decisions, it can be a healthy one too!
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