Weight loss based ingredients
- 1 cup chopped onion (low-calorie, high-fiber)
- 2 stalks celery, chopped (low-calorie, hydrating)
- 1 carrot, diced (rich in beta-carotene, low-calorie)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (healthy fat, metabolism-boosting)
- 1 tablespoon rice flour (low-carb alternative to all-purpose flour)
- 1 ½ teaspoons Sri Lankan curry powder (metabolism-boosting spices)
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (low-calorie, hydrating)
- ½ green apple, cored and chopped (low-glycemic fruit)
- ¼ cup red rice (high-fiber, low-glycemic index)
- 1 skinless, boneless chicken breast half – cut into cubes (lean protein)
- 1 pinch dried thyme (digestive health)
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste (flavor without extra calories)
- ½ cup coconut milk (healthy fat, dairy-free alternative)
Cooking Methods (Instructions) Focused for Weight Loss
Heat coconut oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and carrot and sauté until soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add rice flour and curry powder, and cook for 5 more minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Pour in the vegetable broth, mix well, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Next, add the chopped apple, red rice, chicken cubes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked, about 15 to 20 minutes. Just before serving, stir in the heated coconut milk for a creamy texture without the extra calories of heavy cream.
Weight Loss Tips & Advice
To maximize weight loss benefits, use coconut oil sparingly as it is calorie-dense despite its health benefits. Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth to reduce water retention and bloating. Red rice is a great substitute for white rice as it has a lower glycemic index and is richer in fiber, helping you feel fuller for longer. Adding green apple provides natural sweetness without spiking blood sugar levels.
Portion control is key—stick to one serving per meal and pair the soup with a small side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal. Avoid adding extra salt or high-calorie toppings like croutons or cream.
Conclusion
This Sri Lankan Light Mulligatawny Soup is an excellent choice for weight loss as it incorporates high-fiber, low-calorie, and metabolism-boosting ingredients that are easily accessible in Sri Lanka. The use of traditional spices not only enhances flavor but also aids in digestion and fat burning. By replacing heavy cream with coconut milk and using red rice, this recipe becomes a healthier, weight-loss-friendly version of the classic soup.
For best results, pair this soup with a regular exercise routine and stay hydrated throughout the day. Remember, sustainable weight loss is achieved through a combination of healthy eating, portion control, and an active lifestyle.