Weight Loss Without Giving Up Biryani: Experts Say It’s Possible With Smart Cooking
**Islamabad:** Biryani, often considered a calorie-heavy dish, doesn’t have to be off-limits for those aiming to lose weight. Nutritionists and fitness coaches say that with the right approach, even favorite dishes like biryani can fit into a weight-loss plan.
According to nutritionist and weight-loss coach Mohita, the key is to prepare biryani wisely rather than avoiding it altogether. “If you follow a few simple principles, biryani can be part of a diet without guilt—just adjust the method,” she explained.
Traditional biryani often contains high amounts of fat and carbohydrates due to the use of one kilogram of meat, one kilogram of rice, and generous ghee, while being low in protein. This is why it’s commonly seen as unsuitable for weight loss.
Mohita shared her recipe for “Chicken Fat-Loss Biryani,” which uses lean meat, measured rice portions, moderate spices, and minimal ghee. This keeps the flavor intact while cutting unnecessary calories.
Her recipe suggests using 400 grams of boneless chicken with 200 grams of rice, marinated in 100 grams of Greek yogurt and spices. Rice is soaked for half an hour while the chicken stays refrigerated. Onions are lightly sautéed in a single tablespoon of ghee or cooked in an air fryer.
The dish is served with 300 grams of low-fat yogurt raita mixed with finely chopped vegetables. Mohita says this method preserves taste without contributing to weight gain.
“Healthy bodies and delicious food can coexist,” she said. “A few simple changes can make biryani part of a fitness plan, so you can enjoy it without guilt.”
