One challenge to planning a health menu for weight loss is choosing and cooking foods with flavor. Of course, many of the foods we enjoy are quite flavorful, yet in an age where bolder is perceived as better we may not always sense the crisp zing of a carrot or broccoli spear on our taste buds. So conditioned are we, too, that it may be impossible for some to enjoy a slice of toast without slathering it with butter! Melted cheese on veggies, shortening in cake recipes, little drips and drabs do pile up eventually, and can help pack on the pounds.The one thing we all need to realize when eating, cooking, and planning healthy meals is that it is possible to induce bold flavors without introducing high-fat contents. Think about why so many people like fast food. It does taste good, and the flavor is plentiful. Yet, if you have ever seen how hamburgers and French fries are prepared at your favorite chain restaurant, you will quickly see why. Note the huge, cylindrical salt shaker by the fry station, and another one by the grill. Note the giant white blocks of shortening dumped into the vats just before breaded chicken and fish is set down to cook. These ingredients contribute greatly to the flavor of your meal, but unfortunately they also raise the fat content.
If you are concerned about what goes in your food to add flavor, yet are not wholly willing to cut out the condiments, there's no need to worry. Next time you open the pantry, consider these simple substitutions to help cut the caloric and fat content of your meals.
