Can I eat curry and lose weight?

Nutrition

I’m trying to lose weight, but don’t want to miss my weekly curry session with my mates. What’s the best option to go for?
Alex Lessiter, by email

It’s best to go for a tomato or vegetable-based sauce such as rogan josh and avoid creamy sauces such as korma and pasanda. Stick to a low-fat meat or fish such as chicken or prawns and avoid lamb or fatty cuts of beef. Tandoori dishes are also a good choice because the meat is baked without extra oil, but try not to be tempted by the creamy masala sauce that is often served with it. If you can, share a boiled basmati rice or a plain naan with a friend, or have a vegetable side dish instead. And don’t munch on too many poppadums before your food comes.

Losing weight doesn’t mean missing out – just try and make smarter choices. If you fancy a starter, for example, go for a chicken tikka kebab or dhal soup and avoid the deep-fried bhajis, samosas and butterfly prawns. You could always invite the boys round and make your own curry so you know exactly which healthy ingredients are in it.