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Fried rice is a versatile and delicious dish that can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. It’s a quick and easy meal option that combines rice with vegetables, proteins, and savory seasonings. Whether you prefer a classic vegetable fried rice or a protein-packed version with chicken or tofu, this dish is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:
  • 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold or day-old)
  • 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or sesame oil)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers), chopped
  • 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
  1. Prepare the Rice:

    • If using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a tray to cool and dry out slightly. Cold or day-old rice works best for fried rice as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
  2. Cook the Vegetables:

    • Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
    • Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp. If using cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, add it to the pan and cook until heated through.
  3. Scramble the Eggs:

    • Push the vegetables and protein to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble until fully cooked. Combine the eggs with the vegetables.
  4. Add the Rice:

    • Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine with the vegetables and eggs.
  5. Season the Fried Rice:

    • Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) to the rice. Mix well and cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through and well-coated with the sauce.
  6. Garnish and Serve:

    • Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Serve hot as a main dish or as a side.
Conclusion

Fried rice is a tasty and adaptable meal that can fit into a variety of dietary plans. However, if you have specific dietary needs or are aiming to achieve particular health goals, it’s important to consider how such recipes fit into your overall nutrition plan. Before adding new recipes to your diet, please consult your dietician. For expert guidance tailored to your health needs, contact the Famous Nutritionist in India, Dietician Natasha Mohan, and explore how her personalized advice can help you achieve your health goals effectively.

Protein shakes are a popular choice for those aiming to lose weight while maintaining muscle mass and energy levels. They offer a convenient way to boost your protein intake, which can help with satiety and muscle repair. Here are some delicious protein shake recipes that are perfect for weight loss.

1. Berry Protein Shake

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • A few ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Combine the almond milk, mixed berries, protein powder, and chia seeds in a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. If desired, add honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
  4. Add ice cubes and blend again.
  5. Pour into a glass and enjoy!
2. Green Protein Shake

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup spinach leaves
  • 1/2 green apple, cored and chopped
  • 1/2 banana
  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut water
  • 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
  • 1 tablespoon flaxseeds
  • A few ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Add spinach, green apple, banana, and coconut water to a blender.
  2. Blend until the mixture is smooth.
  3. Add the protein powder and flaxseeds.
  4. Blend again until well combined.
  5. Add ice cubes, blend one more time, and serve.
3. Chocolate Almond Protein Shake

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
  • 1 tablespoon almond butter
  • 1/2 banana
  • A few ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Combine almond milk, cocoa powder, chocolate protein powder, almond butter, and banana in a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. Add ice cubes and blend again.
  4. Serve chilled.
4. Tropical Protein Shake

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup mango chunks (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
  • 1 tablespoon hemp seeds
  • A few ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Blend the coconut milk, pineapple chunks, mango chunks, and protein powder until smooth.
  2. Add hemp seeds and blend again.
  3. Incorporate ice cubes and blend until frothy.
  4. Pour into a glass and enjoy!
Conclusion

These protein shake recipes are not only tasty but also designed to support your weight loss journey by providing essential nutrients and keeping you full longer. Incorporating these shakes into your diet can be a great way to maintain a healthy lifestyle while working towards your fitness goals. However, before making any significant changes to your diet, it’s important to consult a dietician to ensure these recipes meet your specific needs. For a healthy diet plan for weight loss, please consult your dietician or contact Dietician Natasha Mohan. Natasha Mohan offers tailored plans to help you achieve your weight loss goals effectively and sustainably.

Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a popular ingredient in many Indian households. It's rich in protein, low in carbs, and can be incorporated into various dishes that are both tasty and conducive to weight loss. Here are some healthy paneer recipes that can help you shed those extra pounds without compromising on flavor.

1. Grilled Paneer Tikka

Ingredients:

  • 200 grams paneer, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Skewers

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and coat them well.
  3. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat the grill and lightly brush it with olive oil.
  5. Thread the paneer cubes onto the skewers and grill them until golden brown on all sides.
  6. Serve with a side of mint chutney and a fresh salad.
2. Paneer Bhurji

Ingredients:

  • 200 grams paneer, crumbled
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tomato, finely chopped
  • 1 green chili, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan and add the cumin seeds.
  2. Once they crackle, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add the green chili and tomatoes, cooking until the tomatoes soften.
  4. Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
  5. Add the crumbled paneer and cook for 5-7 minutes.
  6. Sprinkle garam masala on top and mix well.
  7. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with whole wheat roti or as a filling for wraps.
3. Palak Paneer

Ingredients:

  • 200 grams paneer, cubed
  • 250 grams spinach leaves, washed and chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 green chili, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/4 cup low-fat yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Blanch the spinach leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then blend into a smooth paste.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan and add the cumin seeds.
  3. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chili, cooking for a minute.
  5. Add the tomatoes and cook until they soften.
  6. Mix in the turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt.
  7. Add the spinach paste and cook for 5 minutes.
  8. Stir in the yogurt and paneer cubes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
  9. Serve hot with brown rice or whole wheat chapati.
4. Paneer and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

  • 200 grams paneer, cubed
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute.
  3. Add the onions and cook until they turn translucent.
  4. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot, stirring for 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
  5. Stir in the paneer cubes and soy sauce, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Serve hot, either on its own or with a side of quinoa or brown rice.
Conclusion

Paneer is a fantastic ingredient that can be included in a variety of healthy recipes aimed at weight loss. Whether grilled, stir-fried, or incorporated into a curry, paneer provides a protein-rich option that can keep you full and satisfied. However, before making any significant dietary changes, it’s crucial to consult with a dietician to ensure these recipes align with your individual health needs. For personalized guidance, please consult your dietician or contact Dietician Natasha Mohan. Natasha Mohan offers a specialized diet plan for weight loss for females that can be tailored to meet your unique goals and dietary preferences.

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