Curry is one of the UK most loved takeaway options, but many traditional recipes can be high in calories, saturated fat, and creamy sauces. For those looking to enjoy a tasty meal without compromising on health, ordering a healthy curry from takeaway is the perfect solution. In this guide, we explore the best low-calorie and clean options you can find near you, plus tips to make your takeaway meals more nutritious.
The demand for healthy takeaway options has grown across the UK, as people look for convenient meals that fit their dietary goals. Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner, lose weight, or simply enjoy a nutritious meal on busy days, choosing a healthy curry takeaway is a smart choice.
In this article, we’ll cover what makes a curry healthy, the best low-calorie takeaway options, and tips to order nutritious dishes without sacrificing flavour.
What Makes a Curry Healthy
Not all curries are created equal. A healthy curry focuses on nutrient-rich ingredients, balanced macros, and cooking methods that reduce unnecessary fat and calories. Here’s what to look for:
- Low-Fat Cooking Methods: Grilled, steamed, or lightly sautéed curries are ideal. Avoid deep-fried items or creamy, butter-heavy sauces.
- Lean Protein Sources: Chicken, fish, legumes, or tofu provide protein without excessive fat.
- Fresh Vegetables: Spinach, peppers, carrots, and cauliflower add fibre, vitamins, and colour to your curry.
- Healthy Sauces: Tomato-based sauces or coconut milk alternatives are lighter than cream-heavy curries.
- Minimal Oil: Ask your takeaway to prepare the dish with less oil or ghee for a lower-calorie option.
By focusing on these elements, you can enjoy a curry that tastes indulgent while staying low in calories and high in nutrients.
Benefits of Choosing Healthy Curry From Takeaway
Ordering a low-calorie curry takeaway offers several advantages:
- Convenience: No cooking required, perfect for busy workdays or evenings.
- Portion Control: Takeaway meals often come in pre-portioned containers, helping manage calorie intake.
- Balanced Nutrition: Many healthy curry options provide the right mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
- Special Diets: Gluten-free, coeliac-safe, and plant-based curries are increasingly available across UK takeaways.
Best Low-Calorie Curry Takeaway Options in the UK
Several UK restaurants and delivery services now focus on healthy curry options. Some of the most popular choices include:
- Healthy Indian Chains: Look for restaurants that specifically advertise low-oil, grilled, or steamed dishes.
- Local Independent Takeaways: Many smaller takeaways offer customised dishes with extra vegetables and lean proteins.
- Delivery Apps: Platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat allow you to filter for “healthy” or “low-calorie” options, helping you find nutritious curry takeaways near you.
Top Healthy Curry Dishes to Order
When ordering a healthy curry takeaway, some dishes naturally fit a low-calorie and clean eating profile:
- Chicken Tikka Masala (Light Version): Ask for grilled chicken with a tomato-based sauce.
- Lentil Dal or Chickpea Curry: High in fibre and plant protein, naturally low in fat.
- Vegetable Curries: Spinach, cauliflower, and mixed vegetable curries prepared with minimal oil.
- Grilled Fish Curries: Lean protein with aromatic spices and light sauces.
- Keto-Friendly or Low-Carb Curries: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or serve with extra vegetables.
How to Make Your Takeaway Curry Healthier
Even when ordering from a standard takeaway, you can make healthier choices:
- Request Less Oil or Cream: Ask the chef to use less ghee, butter, or cream.
- Swap White Rice: Choose brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for extra fibre and fewer calories.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Boost nutrients and portion size without adding fat.
- Avoid Fried Sides: Skip naan or samosas and opt for steamed rice or salad.
These small tweaks can significantly reduce calorie intake while keeping the curry delicious.
Healthy Curry for Special Diets
Healthy curry options cater to a variety of dietary needs:
- Vegetarian & Vegan: Lentils, chickpeas, and tofu provide protein without animal products.
- Gluten-Free & Coeliac-Safe: Many curries are naturally gluten-free, especially those with rice and vegetable bases.
- High-Protein: Grilled chicken, fish, or legumes make a filling, protein-rich meal perfect for fitness-conscious eaters.
Ordering Healthy Curry From Takeaway: Tips for the UK
To enjoy healthy takeaway curry in the UK:
- Use delivery apps like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat to filter healthy options.
- Check the menu for calorie counts, nutritional info, or “light” dishes.
- Read reviews to identify restaurants with consistently healthy preparation methods.
- Experiment with spice levels, portion sizes, and sides to suit your dietary goals.
FAQs
Is takeaway curry really healthy?
Yes, when you choose grilled, steamed, or vegetable-heavy dishes with minimal oil or cream.
How can I reduce calories in my takeaway curry?
Request less oil, swap rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice, and avoid fried sides.
Which curries are naturally low-fat and nutritious?
Dal, chickpea curry, grilled chicken or fish curries, and vegetable curries are all excellent choices.
Conclusion
Ordering a healthy curry from takeaway is easier than ever in the UK. By selecting low-calorie, nutrient-rich options and making small tweaks, you can enjoy delicious curry meals without compromising your health.
Whether you’re craving Indian classics like chicken tikka masala, dal, or vegetable curry, or looking for low-fat and clean eating options, there are plenty of UK takeaways that cater to your needs. Make smart choices, explore local healthy takeaways near you, and enjoy your curry guilt-free!
