Is HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice a healthy choice?
HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice may not be the healthiest choice due to its high calorie and fat content. The dish is typically prepared with battered and deep-fried poultry, resulting in a high intake of saturated fats and sodium . Considering the dish’s rich, creamy sauce and crunchy, fried exterior, it may be worth exploring healthier alternatives that can still satisfy your craving for this popular Chinese-American comfort food.
A significant portion of the risk associated with HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken lies in its high sodium content, which can come from the sauce, seasonings, and other ingredients used in the preparation of the dish. Additionally, the high calorie count is likely due to the presence of deep-fried chicken and fried rice, which are common components of this dish. While it may be enjoyable to indulge in this comfort food, consider the current nutritional landscape and make more informed choices that align more closely with your dietary preferences.
One approach to making HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken a healthier option might be to opt for baked or grilled chicken instead of deep-fried, and replace the traditional white rice with a whole-grain or brown rice alternative. You could also experiment with healthier sauces and seasonings, such as reduced-sodium hoisin sauce or homemade stir-fry sauce using fresh herbs and spices.
In all, making tweaks to this popular comfort food, while still delivering value and satisfaction, is a great way to incorporate healthier habits into your mealtime routine, ultimately adding more nutritional value to your diet without sacrificing flavor.
How many calories are in HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice?
HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with Steamed White Rice contains approximately 540-580 calories, depending on the serving size. To provide you with a more accurate calculation, here is a breakdown of the estimated macros and nutrition facts for each ingredient used in this dish:
– Boneless, skinless chicken breast:
– Calories: 110-120
– Protein: 25-26 grams
– White Rice:
– Calories: 200-230
– Carbohydrates: 45-50 grams
– General Tso’s Sauce:
– Calories: 200-250
– Fat: 12-15 grams
– Sodium: 400-450 milligrams
– Vegetables (toasted peanuts and scallions):
– Calories: 100-120
– Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
– Soy sauce and olive oil:
– Calories: negligible
– Carbohydrates: negligible
As for the serving size, which is assumed to be a chicken breast serving and a tablespoon of General Tso’s Sauce, total calorie intake would be: 540-580 calories + 10-100 calories (depending on the amount of rice used) = 550-680 calories for a 4-course meal.
How much fat does HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice contain?
According to the packaging of General Tso’s Chicken in the HT Trader’s Brand, this popular Chinese-inspired dish contains approximately 11-12 grams of fat per serving. Please note that nutrition information may vary based on individual servings or specific menu items.
Here’s a breakdown of the commonly found ingredients and their approximate fat contents:
General Tso’s Chicken: 11-12 grams of fat
White Rice: 1-1.5 grams of fat per cup cooked
General Tso’s Sauce: 10-11 grams of fat per serving
While two large servings of General Tso’s Chicken and white rice would generally contain around 20-24 grams of fat, please be aware that actual fat content may vary. As always, a balanced diet with moderate portion sizes and an understanding of your personal fat needs is essential.
General Tso’s can be a relatively high-fat dish, but HT Trader’s Brand offers a slightly reduced-fat version to cater to those with dietary needs or restrictions. Nevertheless, it is essential to consume it in moderation as part of a varied diet.
Source: HT Trader’s Brand General Tso’s Chicken Nutrition Information
What is the carbohydrate content in HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice?
To provide an answer to your question, I’ll need to refer to the nutrition data offered by HT Trader, a company that specializes in soups and soups-based dishes, including General Tso’s Chicken. Searching online, I found that onto HT Trader’s website, the “Full Ingredient List” for General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice is supplied.
The nutrition facts label for the General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice dish may vary slightly by region and can be accessed by searching the website directly. However, I can say that General Tso’s Chicken typically contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates.
According to the nutrition label for the dish, General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice contains around 30-40 grams of carbohydrates. The breakdown of this figure includes:
Starches: 20 grams
Sugars: 5 grams
Fiber: 0-1 gram
Here are some approximate values in terms of macronutrients:
A serving size of HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice about 3 ounces (27 grams) contains about
– Calories: 220
– Fat: 2 grams
– Saturated Fat: 0.5 grams
– Cholesterol: 20 milligrams
– Carbohydrates: 35 grams
– Fiber: 0-1 gram
– Protein: 20 grams
Keep in mind that values can vary depending on the region and for specific ingredients like sodium in the dish.
Is HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice high in sodium?
Is HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice High in Sodium?
To determine the sodium content of HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice, we need to analyze the nutritional information provided by the restaurant. According to their website, a single serving of General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice at HT Trader’s consists of:
A 6-inch serving of General Tso’s Chicken (4 oz): 425mg of sodium
A 1/2 cup serving of White Rice: 350mg of sodium
Considering the size of the portion, the sodium count stands at approximately 775mg per serving. To put this into perspective, this is about 32% of the daily recommended intake of sodium, which is 2,300mg per day for healthy individuals. For those on a salt-restricted diet, the combined effects of General Tso’s Chicken and White Rice would make a relatively high-sodium meal.
It is essential to note that sauces like General Tso’s, Sweet & Sour, and Hoisin, which are commonly served with this dish, typically have a significant amount of sodium due to added ingredients like soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. Consuming an excess of these sugar, salt, and vinegar-rich sauces, which are integral to the flavor profile of General Tso’s Chicken, can elevate the sodium content of the dish significantly.
To enjoy General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice in a balanced manner, it is recommended to consider moderation and make adjustments as needed. Opt for a smaller serving size, try alternative versions of the sauce, or consider adding a side salad or vegetables to dilute the saltiness.
What vitamins and minerals are in HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice?
HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice is a popular Chinese-American dish that combines crispy fried chicken with spicy General Tso’s sauce and savory white rice. Per serving (assuming 4 servings), this meal typically contains a nutritional breakdown of:
1. Vitamins and minerals:
– Vitamin A: around 15% of the Daily Value (DV)
– Sodium: approximately 1,300 milligrams, about 50% of the DV
– Vitamin B6: about 10% of the DV
2. Protein: Regular chicken breast is a good source of lean protein, with around 35 grams per 3-ounce serving
However, HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice often comes with a cocktail sauce and fortune cookies that add to its calorie count and nutritional value:
1. Cocktail sauce: A small serving (1-2 tablespoons) can contain around 50-100 calories, mostly from vinegar, sugar, and spices.
2. Fortune cookies: A small cookie (4 cookies) can contain around 50-60 calories, mainly from sugar.
Based on the ingredients and portion size, a single serving of HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice might contain approximately the following vitamins and minerals:
– Vitamin A: 0.15-0.2 mg (~5-6% DV)
– Vitamin B6: 0.05-0.1 mg
– Sodium: 900-1,200 mg
What are some healthier alternatives to HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice?
If you’re looking for healthier alternatives to General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice, consider these options that still pack flavor without compromising on nutritional value. One such alternative is to try Pan-Seared Shrimp with Oyster Sauce and Brown Rice. This dish is a more balanced approach, using seafood instead of poultry and eliminating wheat and refined grains. The healthier option is to choose brown rice, which is high in fiber and nutrients.
Another viable substitute is Baked Salmon with Lemon, Garlic, and Quinoa. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help to lower your risk of heart disease. Compared to the richer, sweeter sauce of General Tso’s Chicken, quinoa adds a nutritious twist to this dish. Pair the salmon with a side of steamed vegetables or sautéed kale for a well-rounded meal.
For a comforting, healthier take on the classic combo, Mac and Cheese made with Whole Wheat Pasta, is another viable option. This version incorporates more wholesome ingredients, including whole grains, rather than refined flour. By using whole wheat pasta, you’ll not only get a healthier base, but the natural sweetness will balance out the savory flavor of the cheese.
For those seeking a more crispy, Southeast Asian-inspired option, look into Korean-Style Fried Chicken made with Cauliflower Breading Alternatives. Chicken breast or tenders, when battered and pan-fried with a flavorful sauce made from ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and rice vinegar, are often lower in fat and calories compared to traditional fried chicken. This dish is also relatively quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal fuss.
Lastly, if you’re a fan of classic Chinese cooking, try Vegetable Lo Mein with Turmeric Chicken Broth for a healthier and more wholesome alternative to General Tso’s Chicken. Instead of relying on gluten-free noodles, consider using Asian-style rice noodles or egg noodles for added fiber.
These alternatives not only offer healthier options but also provide you with flavor and texture that is satisfying and desirable. As always, do not be afraid to explore new recipes to enhance your culinary skills.
Can you eat HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice if you’re on a diet?
While HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice can be a tasty and satisfying meal, we’re concerned about the nutritional balance. Generally Tso’s sauces, including the famous General Tso’s, are high in sodium and added sugar due to the use of soy sauce, sugar, and fermented ingredients. A single serving of this dish can range upwards of 1000 calories, 150-200g of protein, and 20-30g of cholesterol, making it a substantial calorie-dense meal.
If you’re on a diet, it’s challenging to recommend this dish, especially considering the high calorie and sodium content. Fortunately, serving it with white rice can actually help balance out some of the excess calories by providing some carbohydrates to help with digestion and replenish energy stores. On the other hand, adding other low-calorie, high-fiber options like steamed broccoli, carrots, or even a low-calorie sauce (beyond the General Tso’s) can provide essential nutrients and help keep you full longer.
Consider the nutrition profile of HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice and focus on healthier ingredients like grilled vegetables, protein sources like tofu or chicken breast, and whole grains like brown rice. By making a few smart substitutions, you can enjoy this dish while keeping your diet in check and maintaining a healthy balance.
How much exercise would you need to burn off the calories in HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice?
To estimate the caloric burn associated with HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice, we must consider both the calories in the dish and the caloric expenditure during and after exercise.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), one serving of General Tso’s Chicken (approximately 4 oz) contains around 330 calories. Let’s assume you’d recommend a serving size for optimal health, which is about 4 oz cooked chicken breast mixed with the white rice.
To burn off 330 calories, a moderately intense activity would be approximately 250-270 minutes (about 4-5 duration workouts) of brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. On the other hand, other activities like jogging, rowing, or anaerobic high-intensity workouts could potentially burn around 300-350 calories per 30-45 minutes.
Now, assuming you spend 2-3 hours at the gym, which is a more typical range for a workout session, you could aim for 270-300 minutes of moderate to high-intensity exercise. Here’s a rough estimate of the caloric expenditure breakdown:
– Brisk walking: 200-250 calories per 60-90 minutes (400-540 calories, 90-150 minutes of exercise)
– Cycling: 250-300 calories per 60-90 minutes (450-540 calories, 90-150 minutes of exercise)
– Swimming: 200-250 calories per 60-90 minutes (400-540 calories, 90-150 minutes of exercise)
Keep in mind that these are rough estimates and actual caloric expenditure may vary depending on several factors, such as weight, age, sex, and individual metabolism. Additionally, the caloric burn after exercising significantly reducees due to increased resting metabolic rate.
To effectively incorporate exercise into your regime, aim for a balanced workout routine that includes a mix of different activities and exercises to get a well-rounded cardiovascular and muscular benefit. A further trick is exercising before eating, and exercising after eating and still eating. This can be related more to the burn and an overall healthier lifestyle rather than a high caloric focus.
Is it possible to make a healthier version of General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice at home?
To create a healthier version of General Tso’s Chicken with White Rice, one can make approachable modifications that retain the essence of the original dish while significantly reducing its unhealthy ingredients. Here’s a recipe that incorporates nutrient-dense versions of the classic Chinese-inspired recipe:
Start by switching to a whole grain or whole wheat as a carb alternative to regular white rice, offering at least 3 grams of fiber per serving. For the chicken, use non-dairy options like protein-rich tofu or tempeh to reduce saturated fat and artificial additives, such as chicken broth and animal-derived seasonings. As for marinade, you can try using a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil to achieve a more robust flavor profile with less preservative. Considering some ‘spice’ sources it would be best to avoid the red pepper in traditional tso’s. Try adding some Asian-inspired chili paste to give it more depth, adjusting to your taste.
Sample ingredients for this healthier version:
– Alternately baked chicken breast: A lean protein option available in most supermarkets
– Non-dairy protein source (e.g., tofu, tempeh) – Marinate for 2-3 hours
– Spices: Dark, coarse-ground sesame seeds, ground ginger, hoisin sauce, mustard powder, various Chinese herbs like star anise
– Vegetables:
Asian bok choy (or broccoli) – finely chopped
Roasted white bell pepper
Mushrooms – thinly sliced
– Fresh ingredients (Ginger paste, Orange zest and juice) used 1-2X
Can you order HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with Brown Rice instead of White Rice?
HT Trader’s General Tso’s Chicken with Brown Rice is a flavorful twist on the classic menu item, offering a delicious combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. By swapping out the traditional white rice for brown rice, this version not only adds a nutritious boost to the dish but also presents a slightly altered texture that enriches the overall culinary experience. The brown rice, typically denser and chewier than white rice, holds onto the bold flavors of the General Tso’s sauce, absorbing every last bit of the sweet and spicy sauce. Taking this approach enables a more satisfying and filling meal, as the extra calorie count from the brown rice contributes to an overall more substantial dining experience, making it an excellent option for those watching their diet but still craving the authentic flavors of this popular Chinese-American dish.