5 low-cal swaps for your favourite comfort foods

We've all had times when a hard day at work or a tiff with our partner takes a toll on us. At this point, no amount of consolation, even from the closest of friends is enough to soothe the pain and all you need is the cheesiest pizza, a tub of your favourite ice cream, and Netflix. Because, you know what? A pizza never turns up and says "I don't love you anymore" or "You'll be chucked out if you don't meet your target". A pizza just loves, unconditionally--and silently.

 

Obviously nothing can possibly be wrong about something that gives you comfort in your bad times--except for the fact that it gives much more than just comfort-calories.

So dig in for some equally yum low-cal alternatives before giving in to your guilty pleasures for temporary comfort and regretting later. Trust us, your body will thank you.

1. Air-Fried Fries

What's more comforting than munching on fries while watching your favourite movie post a tough day? Now, you can indulge in this comfort without guilt or gluten. Just brush half-boiled and chopped potatoes with oil, cook them in the air fryer till they are brown and crispy, sprinkle some seasoning, and your fries are ready. In case you don't have an air fryer, you can bake the fries or saute the potatoes instead of frying them.

2. Pizza
Don't let the greasy pies hanging out in the posters of your favorite pizza parlour mislead you. A pizza can very well make for a healthy meal--if done right, that is. Choose a wholewheat base and load it up with lots and lots of veggies and very little cheese. Now obviously a pizza without cheese is like a rainbow without its colours, so use a strongly-flavoured cheese, like aged gouda, to make up for using less of it in your healthy pizza.

3. Pasta… Arrabbiata

If you're counting calories, you know the white is strictly not allowed. Opt for a wholewheat pasta and use tomato puree with lots and lots of garlic and herbs for the perfect arrabbiata sauce. Don't forget to add lots of veggies! We understand your body literally screams for cheese during vulnerable times, so maybe, you can add a spoonful of cream and some grated Cheddar. But be mindful of the quantity: remember, a moment on the lips, forever on the hips.
 
4. Baked Nachos
The next time you crave for chips, opt for baked nachos instead. For starters, nachos spare you the damage that fried potato chips loaded with masalas do. Also, you can increase the nutritive value by making a nachos chaat of sorts by adding baked beans, steamed corn, and other veggies of your choice. Fine, you can top it with cheese too, but just a little bit. 

5. Roasted Chicken

Power-packed with protein, this super healthy and sumptuous treat will please your Punjabi taste buds and how! Marinate the chicken in hung curd and spices for a few hours and then roast it. And your super-healthy and comforting food is ready.