If you're looking for a flavorful and filling meal on the go, a tandoori wrap might be the perfect option for you. This classic Indian dish is made by marinating chicken in yogurt and spices, then cooking it in a traditional tandoor oven. The chicken is then wrapped in a soft tortilla with fresh ingredients like lettuce, tomato, and onion, creating a delicious and convenient meal that's great for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack. A typical 8 oz (227 g) tandoori wrap contains around 328 calories, making it a great option for those looking for a satisfying but low-calorie meal.
In addition to being a tasty and convenient meal, tandoori wraps also offer a range of nutritional benefits. The yogurt used in the marinade provides a good source of protein and calcium, while the spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. The fresh vegetables used in the wrap also add plenty of vitamins and minerals, making this a well-rounded and healthy meal option.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about tandoori wraps, from their nutritional value to how to make them at home. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking for a nutritious and satisfying meal, we've got you covered.
What is a Tandoori Wrap?
A tandoori wrap is a popular Indian street food made by marinating chicken in yogurt and spices, then cooking it in a tandoor oven. The chicken is then wrapped in a soft tortilla with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and onion, creating a flavorful and convenient meal. Tandoori wraps are typically served as a lunch or dinner option, although they can also be enjoyed as a quick snack. They are widely available at Indian restaurants and food trucks, as well as many fast food chains and convenience stores. The exact ingredients used in a tandoori wrap can vary depending on the recipe and the chef, but most will feature chicken that has been marinated in yogurt and spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The wrap itself is usually made from a soft flour tortilla, although some recipes may use other types of bread or even lettuce leaves.
How Many Calories Does a Tandoori Wrap Contain?
A typical 8 oz (227 g) tandoori wrap contains around 328 calories. In addition to the calories, a tandoori wrap will also provide a good source of protein and fiber, as well as a range of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables used in the wrap. If you're looking to reduce the calorie count of your tandoori wrap, there are some easy substitutions you can make. For example, you could opt for a smaller tortilla, skip the cheese or mayonnaise, and load up on extra vegetables instead.
What are the Key Ingredients in a Tandoori Wrap?
The key ingredients in a tandoori wrap include chicken that has been marinated in yogurt and spices, as well as a soft tortilla and a range of fresh vegetables. The specific spices used in the marinade can vary depending on the recipe, but common options include cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. In addition to the yogurt used in the marinade, other common ingredients can include garlic, lemon juice, and ginger. The tortilla used in the wrap is usually made from flour, although some recipes may use other types of bread or even lettuce leaves. The vegetables used in the wrap can vary depending on personal preference and availability, but common options include lettuce, tomato, onion, cucumber, and bell pepper. Some recipes may also include extras like cheese, mayonnaise, or hot sauce.
Can a Tandoori Wrap be a Healthy Meal?
Yes, a tandoori wrap can be a healthy meal option, as long as it's made with fresh ingredients and eaten in moderation. The chicken used in the wrap provides a good source of protein, while the yogurt in the marinade is a good source of calcium and probiotics. The fresh vegetables used in the wrap provide plenty of vitamins and minerals, and can be a great way to increase your daily vegetable intake. To make your tandoori wrap even healthier, try opting for a smaller tortilla, skipping the cheese or mayonnaise, and loading up on extra vegetables instead. Overall, tandoori wraps can be a great option for those looking for a flavorful and nutritious meal on the go.
Is a Tandoori Wrap Suitable for Vegetarians?
While the traditional tandoori wrap is made with chicken, there are plenty of vegetarian options that can be equally delicious and satisfying. For example, you could substitute the chicken with paneer, a type of Indian cheese that is often used in vegetarian dishes. Other vegetarian options for a tandoori wrap could include roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, or even a combination of beans and rice. Whatever your preference, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the flavors of a tandoori wrap without meat.
Are There Any Health Benefits of Consuming a Tandoori Wrap?
Yes, there are many health benefits to consuming a tandoori wrap. The yogurt used in the marinade provides a good source of protein and calcium, while the spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. In addition, the fresh vegetables used in the wrap are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and can help to boost your overall health and wellbeing. Whether you're looking for a tasty and convenient meal or trying to improve your diet, a tandoori wrap can be a great choice.
How to Make a Homemade Tandoori Wrap?
If you're interested in making your own tandoori wrap at home, it's surprisingly easy to do. To start, you'll need to marinate your chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala for several hours. Once the chicken has marinated, you can cook it in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until it's fully cooked. To assemble the wrap, simply place the cooked chicken on a warm tortilla, then add your desired vegetables and condiments. Popular options include lettuce, tomato, onion, cucumber, and a drizzle of mint chutney or hot sauce.
What Other Varieties of Wraps Exist?
While tandoori wraps are a popular option, there are many other types of wraps that you can enjoy. Some other popular varieties include:
- Chicken Caesar wrap, made with grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing
- Veggie wrap, made with a variety of roasted and fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and avocado
- Turkey BLT wrap, made with turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise
- Mediterranean wrap, made with hummus, roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and kalamata olives
What Goes Well with Tandoori Wrap?
Tandoori wraps can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a range of sides and drinks. Some popular options include:
- Side salad, made with fresh greens or a cucumber and tomato mix
- Flavored rice, like cumin or saffron rice
- Naan or pita bread, for dipping in any leftover sauce or chutney
- Mango lassi, a creamy and sweet drink made with mango pulp and yogurt
- Sweet or salty Indian snacks, like samosas or papad
Where to Find the Best Tandoori Wrap Near Me?
If you're looking to try a tandoori wrap for yourself, there are plenty of options available both in restaurants and at food trucks. To find the best tandoori wrap near you, try checking out online reviews and ratings, or ask friends and family for recommendations. You can also try making your own tandoori wrap at home using our easy recipe above. Happy eating!
A tandoori wrap can be a great option for those looking for a flavorful and nutritious meal on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tandoori Wraps
1. What is a Tandoori Wrap?
A Tandoori Wrap is a wrap or roll made with Tandoori-style chicken or other meat, mixed vegetables, and a variety of sauces or chutneys. This wrap is typically served with a side of fries or chips and can be eaten as a quick lunch or snack.
2. How many calories are in a Tandoori Wrap?
The calorie count of a Tandoori Wrap can vary, but on average, an 8 oz (227 g) Tandoori Wrap contains about 328 calories. This can be higher or lower depending on the ingredients used.
3. Is a Tandoori Wrap healthy?
A Tandoori Wrap can be a healthy option if it is made with fresh ingredients and without excessive use of oil, mayonnaise or other high-fat sauces. It can also be made healthier by opting for a whole-wheat wrap or using lettuce leaves instead of wrap. However, it's important to keep in mind its calorie and sodium content.
4. What meat is used in a Tandoori Wrap?
Traditionally, Tandoori chicken is used in a Tandoori Wrap, which is marinated in yogurt and spices and then grilled in a Tandoor oven. However, some restaurants and recipes may use other meats like lamb, beef or paneer (an Indian cottage cheese) instead.
5. Can a Tandoori Wrap be customized to personal taste?
Yes, a Tandoori Wrap can be customized according to personal preference. Depending on the restaurant or recipe, the filling and sauce options can be varied, allowing for personalization. For instance, a vegetarian Tandoori Wrap can be made by using paneer or other grilled vegetables instead of chicken or meat.