Trying to get fit or stick to a summer diet? Just because you are watching what you eat doesn't mean you can't still enjoy eating out or a takeaway with friends. You don't need to be a party pooper, just a little bit savvy about the dishes you choose. 

Thebestof Farnham have put together some top tips to help you make informed choices about what to eat and still stay slim while you savour Indian cuisine. 

Starters

Poppadoms contain about 65 calories each and are a healthier option than bhajis or samosas which are packed with fat and calories. Top them with low-calorie dips such as raita and tomato sambal. 

Hot, Hot, Hot!

Rich curries with creamy sauces should be avoided if you're watching your weight. Try tandoori, tikka or bhuna dishes as they are quite dry and made without the high calorie sauces. Or choose dishes that include rice as part of the meal such as biriyani so you don’t need to order an extra side. Even small portions of spicy Indian curries can often satisfy hunger, give a vindaloo or madras a go – you may find it hard to eat too much! 

Rice

Without a doubt the best accompaniment for curry is plain boiled rice. Pilau rice has oil added to it and is nearly double the amount of calories per portion.

Do you want a naan with that?

An Indian meal might seem incomplete without naan, but think about ordering a side of chapati ( Roti ) instead and preferably wholemeal, cooked in the Tandoori rather than fried. 

Ask if you don't know

If you're not sure what a word means, what ingredients are in the dish or how it is cooked, simply ask before ordering. Restaurant staff are always happy to answer questions and are used to diners being unfamiliar with the cuisine.

Where are the best Indian restaurants in Farnham?

The Farnham Tandoori  promises to serve the best tandoori and curries and have been awarded Curry Awards as proof! 

Wrecclesham's Bengal Lounge  offers the finest modern Indian Cuisine mixed with many traditional favourites in comfortable and relaxed surroundings. 

The Mahaan  is a family run restaurant, in the heart of Farnham, inviting you to enjoy the finest Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine. 

Click here  for favourite Indian restaurants ecommended by local Farnham people.