How to have a healthier yu sheng this CNY

1. Skip the pickles

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Pickles are high in preservatives and sugar. Replace them with refreshing citrus ingredients such as pomegranate, pomelo, grapefruit, and yuzu. Plus, they will make your yu sheng way more colourful and Instagram-worthy!

2. Add more seeds

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Besides your basic white sesame seeds, add a dose of chia seeds, black sesame and pumpkin seeds. Chia seeds are packed with fibre that helps you to stay full longer and reduce overall cholesterol levels. Black sesame seeds have more calcium and antioxidants compared to white seeds. And pumpkin seeds are filled with heart-healthy omega-3 and -6 fats.

3. Choose almonds over peanuts

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Swap your crushed peanuts with crushed almonds instead. Almonds have more iron and calcium, and have a lower fat content than peanuts. Almonds also contain vitamin E, which can give your immune system the boost it needs.

4. Replace the deep fried crackers

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Instead of your ‘golden pillow’ crackers, try using thin rice or multigrain crackers. These crackers are usually baked and contain less fat. Crush and sprinkle them over your yu sheng to get the same satisfying crunch.

5. Make a healthier plum sauce

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Since plum sauce for yu shengs are known to be exceedingly high in sugar, make your own lighter version with this Health Promotion Board-approved recipe.

Ingredients:

½ cup of plum sauce
1 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup of water
1 tsp peanut/ corn oil
1 tsp sesame oil
1/8 tsp five spice powder

Method:

Combine all dressing ingredients and set aside.