The Nicaraguan Diet: Simple, Low-cost, Delicious and Nutritious

The mention of Nicaragua usually conjures thoughts of political instability and poverty but with the growth of tourism this perception is slowly changing. Nicaragua is fast becoming known as a beautiful land of lakes, volcanoes and beaches, however, it does not have a reputation as a culinary destination. Visitors to this Central American country do not expect to consume tasty food; to the contrary, concerns over what to eat may be high on their list. The reality is that the Nicaraguan diet is influenced by Spanish, Creole, and Indigenous cuisine, and although the dishes are simple, they are delicious, and for those wanting to experiment, easy to prepare. What's more, these foods make a great foundation for a nutritionally balanced diet. Red Beans Any list of Nicaraguan foods must include the national dish of rice and red beans, called Gallo Pinto (literally translated to painted rooster). Most Nicaraguans will start their day with a large bowl. These legumes are a rich source of plant-based protein (15g per cup), and when consumed with rice, make a high-quality complete protein. Red beans are mainly composed of starchy carbohydrates and fiber, helping to moderate blood sugar levels and promote gut health. They are also a good source of several minerals (e.g., iron), vitamins (e.g., folate), and phytochemicals (e.g., isoflavones). But be warned, if you make a large batch you will be tempted to eat it all, and too much may cause bloating and flatulence in some folks! ...
Source: Healthy Living - The Huffington Post - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news