Calories In An Egg Roll From A Chinese Restaurant
Egg rolls are a popular appetizer in Chinese restaurants all over the United States. They consist of a filling made of vegetables, meat or seafood, and spices, which are then wrapped in a thin pastry and deep-fried until crispy. While egg rolls may be delicious, they are also high in calories, and it is essential to understand how many calories they contain if you are watching your weight. In this article, we will take a closer look at the calories in an egg roll from a Chinese restaurant and what you can do to make healthier choices.
Calories In An Egg Roll From A Chinese Restaurant
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a single egg roll from a Chinese restaurant contains around 250-300 calories. This is because the egg roll's filling, which is made with vegetables, meat, or seafood, adds to the total calorie count. Additionally, since egg rolls are deep-fried, they absorb a lot of oil, which contributes to their calorie content.
Moreover, most Chinese restaurants serve egg rolls with dipping sauces like sweet and sour sauce or duck sauce, which can add to the overall calorie count. One tablespoon of sweet and sour sauce contains around 50-60 calories, while duck sauce contains around 40-50 calories.
How To Make Healthier Choices
While egg rolls may be high in calories, you can make healthier choices by following these tips:
1. Choose Vegetable Egg Rolls:
Vegetable egg rolls are a healthier option than meat or seafood egg rolls. They contain fewer calories and less fat, making them a better choice for those watching their weight. Additionally, vegetable egg rolls usually contain more fiber, which can help keep you feeling full for longer.
2. Dip in Soy Sauce:
If you must have a dipping sauce, choose soy sauce instead of sweet and sour or duck sauce. Soy sauce contains fewer calories and less sugar than other dipping sauces, making it a healthier alternative.
3. Limit Your Intake:
Finally, the key to eating egg rolls while watching your weight is to limit your intake. Instead of ordering multiple egg rolls, stick to one or share with a friend. Additionally, consider having an egg roll as an occasional treat, rather than a regular part of your diet.
The Bottom Line
Egg rolls from Chinese restaurants are a delicious appetizer that can add to your calorie count. While they can easily fit into a healthy diet, it is essential to make healthier choices by choosing vegetable egg rolls, dipping in soy sauce, and limiting your intake. By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy a delicious egg roll without compromising your health.