Asian Americans make up 7% of the U.S. population and are known for running popular restaurants, but stereotypes about Asian food still persist. Claims that MSG is unhealthy and white rice should be avoided have been debunked. To honor Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage month, Asian American dietitians were asked to share their favorite healthy comfort food. Vietnamese spring rolls made with brown rice wrappers were highlighted by Trung Vo, a registered dietitian in California. Spring rolls can be made at home in a communal setting and are typically filled with vegetables, protein, and vermicelli noodles, served with hoisin or peanut sauce.
Jamie Mok, a registered dietitian in Los Angeles, shared her favorite cultural dish – baby bok choy cooked with garlic and ginger. Bok choy is a versatile and nutritious cruciferous vegetable, providing vitamins A, C, K, and folate, along with valuable electrolytes. Mok enjoys steaming bok choy lightly and tossing it with garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for added flavor. She believes that bok choy embodies Chinese food culture with its simplicity, freshness, and focus on both taste and well-being.
Grace Derocha, a registered dietitian in Detroit, discussed Sinigang as her favorite Filipino dish. Sinigang is a sour broth made with tamarind, protein, and a variety of vegetables. Derocha prefers it with fish and enjoys it as a regular meal for lunch or dinner. Michelle Jaelin, a registered dietitian in Canada, talked about tofu as her favorite Chinese food staple. She appreciates tofu for its versatility as a plant-based protein source and its ability to take on different flavors in dishes like stir fry, soup, and dòufuhuā, a warm tofu pudding dessert.
Andrew Akhaphong, a Thai-Laotian American registered dietitian in Minnesota, highlighted gaeng om, a water-based Thai curry. This curry from the Isan region is unique due to its blend of herbs, vegetables, and seasonings not typical of coconut-based curries. Gaeng om is known for its dill, makrut lime, and galangal flavors, along with its health benefits like collagen release from stewing. Ai James, a registered dietitian in California, shared her love for karaage, Japanese-style fried chicken. Karaage brings back childhood memories from Japan and is typically marinated in soy sauce, coated in corn starch, and fried. It is eaten with miso soup and rice, typically in a bento box meal.
In conclusion, Asian American dietitians highlighted their favorite healthy comfort foods from various Asian cultures, shedding light on the diversity and richness of Asian cuisine. These dishes are not only delicious but also nutritious, incorporating fresh ingredients, unique flavors, and traditional cooking techniques. By embracing and celebrating diverse culinary practices, individuals can discover flavorful and nutritious food options that support overall health and well-being. The cultural significance and personal connections to these dishes further enhance the dining experience, providing a sense of nostalgia, familiarity, and comfort.
