Asian Americans make up about 7% of the U.S. population and have a significant influence on the restaurant industry in the country. Despite this, stereotypes still persist about food from this part of the world, such as the debunked belief that MSG is harmful. In honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage month, Asian American dietitians share their favorite healthy comfort foods. For example, Vietnamese spring rolls made with brown rice wrappers are a popular choice. This dish is easy to assemble and can be a communal activity that helps preserve cultural traditions.
Another favorite nutritious food is bok choy, a cruciferous vegetable that has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for thousands of years. This versatile and nutritious vegetable is rich in vitamins and electrolytes, supporting a healthy brain, heart, and bones. Chinese culture emphasizes the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, and bok choy embodies this tradition. Learning about diverse culinary practices uncovers flavorful and nutritious possibilities that contribute to a balanced diet for optimal health and well-being.
Filipino culture is celebrated through dishes like Sinigang, a soup cooked with tamarind for a sour taste. This soup can be customized with various proteins and vegetables, making it a versatile and healthy option for meals. Chinese tofu dishes, like dòufuhuā (tofu flower), highlight the use of tofu as a plant-based protein source that can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. Tofu is a complete protein that takes on different flavors and textures, making it a versatile ingredient in savory and sweet dishes.
Thai cuisine focuses on incorporating five elements of flavor for health benefits, with dishes like gaeng om from the Isan region of Thailand. This water-based curry is thickened with toasted sticky rice kernels and features unique herbs and seasonings. Gaeng om acts as the bitter element of a meal, helping to balance out other dishes’ flavors. Japanese karaage, or Japanese-style fried chicken, is a popular comfort food that brings back fond memories of childhood for many. This dish is marinated in a soy sauce-based marinade and coated in corn starch or potato flour before frying.
These dishes showcase the diversity and richness of Asian cuisine and highlight the importance of preserving culinary traditions while embracing new flavors and ingredients. Each dish reflects the cultural heritage of the dietitians who shared them, providing a glimpse into the connection between food, identity, and well-being. By exploring a variety of foods from different cultures, individuals can expand their culinary horizons and create a more balanced and nutritious diet that supports their overall health and wellness.
