Albasha brings Lebanese and Mediterranean classics to the menu, where grilled kebabs and hummus offer nutritious options if you pay attention to the calorie details. Understanding Albasha Nutrition and Calories helps you make smarter choices when you order from their extensive menu. You can enjoy a satisfying meal without derailing your health goals if you know what to look for.
The restaurant is known for generous portions and fresh ingredients. However, some dishes pack more fat and sodium than you might expect. This guide breaks down the numbers so you can order with confidence.
Albasha Nutrition And Calories
Most people assume Mediterranean food is always light. That is not entirely true. Fried items, heavy sauces, and pita bread add up quickly. You need to look at the whole plate, not just the protein.
Grilled Protein Options
Grilled meats are your best bet for lean protein. The chicken tawook is a popular choice. A single skewer typically contains around 250 calories with 30 grams of protein. The beef shish kebab is similar, offering about 280 calories per skewer. Lamb chops are richer and come in closer to 350 calories per serving.
You should ask for these items without the butter baste. That simple request saves you about 50 calories per skewer. Also, request the garlic sauce on the side. That white sauce is delicious but adds roughly 120 calories per tablespoon.
Appetizers And Dips
Hummus is a nutritional powerhouse. A standard serving of about two tablespoons has 70 calories and 4 grams of protein. It also provides healthy fats from tahini. The baba ghanoush is similar in calories but lower in fat. Both are good choices when paired with vegetables instead of pita.
Be careful with the fried appetizers. A serving of falafel contains about 330 calories for three pieces. The kibbeh, which is fried, comes in at 290 calories for two pieces. These are fine as treats but not as daily staples. The stuffed grape leaves are a lighter option at around 60 calories for three pieces.
Salads And Soups
The fattoush salad is a solid choice. It has fresh vegetables and toasted pita pieces. A full order is roughly 180 calories without dressing. The dressing adds another 150 calories, so ask for it on the side. The tabbouleh is very low in calories, about 120 per cup, and high in parsley and mint.
The lentil soup is a hidden gem. It is hearty, filling, and only about 150 calories per bowl. It provides good fiber and plant-based protein. This is a great starter to help you feel full before the main course arrives.
Rice And Sides
Rice is where calories can sneak in. The standard white rice pilaf is about 200 calories per cup. The vermicelli rice is similar. However, the restaurant often serves a large mound of rice, which can be two to three cups. That means 400 to 600 calories just for the grain.
You can ask for a half portion of rice. Many locations will do this without extra charge. Or you can swap the rice for extra grilled vegetables. The vegetables are usually around 80 calories per serving and add more nutrients to your meal.
Sandwiches And Wraps
Sandwiches are convenient but can be deceptive. A chicken shawarma sandwich contains about 450 calories. The bread alone is 200 calories. The garlic sauce inside adds another 100. You can ask for the sandwich without sauce or with a light squeeze of lemon instead.
The beef shawarma is similar at 480 calories. The falafel wrap is surprisingly high at 520 calories because the fried balls absorb oil. If you want a wrap, the grilled chicken version is the leanest option. You can also request it in a lettuce wrap to save about 150 calories.
Desserts And Beverages
Desserts are rich and sweet. The baklava is about 280 calories per piece. It is mostly phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup. A small piece goes a long way. The rice pudding is around 220 calories per serving and is a lighter finish to your meal.
For drinks, avoid the sweetened teas and juices. A glass of fresh orange juice is healthy but has 110 calories. The mint lemonade is refreshing but contains about 140 calories due to added sugar. Water or unsweetened tea is always the best choice for calorie control.
Tips For A Balanced Meal
Here are some practical steps to keep your meal within your calorie budget:
- Start with lentil soup or a small salad to curb hunger.
- Choose grilled proteins over fried or breaded options.
- Request all sauces and dressings on the side.
- Ask for a half portion of rice or swap for vegetables.
- Share a dessert or skip it entirely if you had pita with your meal.
These small changes can save you 300 to 500 calories per visit. That is significant if you eat out frequently. You can still enjoy the flavors of Lebanese cuisine without overdoing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Albasha food healthy?
Yes, many items are healthy. Grilled meats, fresh salads, and lentil soup are nutritious choices. The key is portion control and limiting fried items and heavy sauces.
How many calories are in an Albasha chicken tawook plate?
A typical chicken tawook plate with rice and garlic sauce is around 700 to 800 calories. Without the sauce and with half rice, it drops to about 450 calories.
Does Albasha offer low-carb options?
Yes, you can order any grilled protein with a side of vegetables instead of rice. The fattoush salad without pita is also low-carb. Lettuce wraps are available for sandwiches.
What is the healthiest appetizer at Albasha?
The stuffed grape leaves are the healthiest appetizer at about 60 calories for three pieces. The lentil soup is also a great low-calorie starter with good fiber content.
Are there vegetarian options with good protein?
Yes, the hummus and falafel provide plant-based protein. The lentil soup is also high in protein. You can combine hummus with a salad for a balanced vegetarian meal.
You now have the information to order wisely. Remember that the portions are generous, so sharing is always an option. The nutrition numbers can vary slightly by location and preparation, but these estimates give you a solid guide. Enjoy your meal at Albasha knowing you made an informed choice. The flavors are worth it, and now you can balance taste with your health goals. Just keep the sauce on the side and you will do fine.