People around the world talk about it a lot, Asian foods are typically lighter and healthier than a lot of Western options. Whether it’s the lack of dairy, the use of rice, or the delicacy of the soups and curries, foods from around Asia can be both healthy and delicious. When you are looking to get fit, lose some weight, or cut down on the fats, you will still need snacks to get you through those moments when you just need a little something to hold you over. Below are five healthy Asian snacks you need to try.
Rice Cakes
Countries around Asia have some versions of a rice cake. Not only is a rice cake crunchy, delicate, and delicious, it is quite healthy. Whether it’s Thailand, Vietnam, or China, each country has their own version of rice treats. The Japanese have senbei, a rice cracker that comes in a variety of flavors and textures. Rice snacks are available around Asia, and it is one of the leanest options for snacks both on the continent and here in the United States. You don’t need to live in Asia to get your hands on some rice cakes.
Edamame
Edamame is a soybean that you steam. After cooking the beans, you can flavor them in just about any way. You can add soy and garlic. You can add chili sauce. Even just some salt is good. With so many ways to flavor edamame, they are both tasty and balanced.
Edamame is an appetizer, a snack, or it can be part of a full meal. It is delicious on its own but put it into a great sauce and you will be amazed by the flavor it takes on. Edamame is a Japanese snack, but it has spread across Asia and beyond. It is now a popular appetizer and snack in the United States.
Dried Fish
Another very popular snack across the continent is dried fish. There are many different types of dried fish snacks. Just about every country in Asia has their own version of dried fish snacks. In Nha Trang, Vietnam, they are known for dried squid. The Japanese love dried squid too, but just about every kind of fish can be dried, flavored, and dipped in sauce.
It is a great snack while hanging out with friends. Like edamame, dried fish can be a great appetizer before the main meal or a snack in between them. Westerners may be squeamish about dried fish, but why? There is no overly fishy taste. It is healthy and delicious!
Shrimp Chips
Like dried fish, shrimp is used as a chip or a dried condiment. Shrimp chips are like potato chips, but they are baked. They are crunchy and can be flavored in any way. Companies make shrimp chips in classic flavors just like your favorite potato chips, but they’re a lot healthier because they are made from shrimp and are baked instead of fried. These crispy treats are amazing. Who wouldn’t like this crunchy delicacy?
Fruit
One thing you will notice when you are in Asia is that they have so many different types of fruit. They have fruit that is familiar to you, but they will also have some fruits that are quite foreign to you. Durian is perhaps the most exotic. People typically hate the smell, but they also love the meaty, custardy flavor. Jackfruit is another popular fruit across Asia.
Whether you are a fruit person or not, it is a great snack in Asia or in America. Of course, if you eat too much fruit the sugar will add up. However, if you are conscious of the amount of fruit you’re ingesting, you will be able to have a fresh, healthy snack.
These five Asian snacks are just the beginning. There are plenty of healthy, light, and amazing snacks that you can try once or eat a bunch of. Your snacks don’t have to be bad for you. They can be both good for you and delicious. Whether you are looking for something crunchy or something fruity, Asian snacks have it all. Next time you’re thinking about a snack that is both good to eat and good for you, order some tasty Asian snacks!
