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Aloo Gobi: Calories, Nutrition and Health Benefits

Classic North Indian comfort food combining cauliflower and potatoes with aromatic spices - nutritious, satisfying, and perfect for every health goal.

Fresh aloo gobi on rustic wooden table - 140 calories per cup

Quick Nutrition Facts

Per 1 Cup Serving (200g)

NutrientAmount
Calories140 kcal
Protein5g
Carbohydrates24g
Fiber6g
Sugars4g
Fat4g
Vitamin C80mg
Potassium600mg
Iron1.8mg
Calcium60mg

Macronutrient Breakdown

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NUTRITIONIST INSIGHT

Aloo gobi provides 89% of daily vitamin C needs in one cup. The combination of cauliflower's antioxidants and turmeric's anti-inflammatory compounds makes this dish particularly beneficial for immune health and inflammation management.

Myth Busters

MYTH #1: Aloo Gobi Is Too High in Carbs for Weight Loss

TRUTH: One cup has only 140 calories with 6g filling fiber. The high fiber content promotes satiety and aids weight management. The key is using minimal oil (1-2 tbsp) and controlling portion size.

MYTH #2: Diabetics Should Avoid Aloo Gobi Due to Potatoes

TRUTH: The cauliflower provides fiber that slows carb absorption. Diabetics can enjoy aloo gobi by increasing the cauliflower-to-potato ratio (2:1) and pairing with protein-rich dal or paneer.

MYTH #3: Aloo Gobi Has No Protein

TRUTH: One cup provides 5g protein from potatoes and cauliflower. While not a primary protein source, it contributes to daily protein needs. Pair with dal (lentils) or paneer for a complete protein meal.

MYTH #4: Aloo Gobi Is Unhealthy Because It's Fried

TRUTH: Traditional aloo gobi is sautéed, not deep-fried. Using minimal oil (1-2 tbsp) keeps it healthy. Air-frying or steaming further reduces calories while maintaining flavor and nutrition.

MYTH #5: Store-Bought Aloo Gobi Is As Healthy As Homemade

TRUTH: Restaurant and packaged versions often contain 3-4x more oil and sodium. Homemade aloo gobi allows control over ingredients, oil quantity, and spice levels for optimal nutrition.

MYTH #6: Aloo Gobi Loses Nutrients When Cooked

TRUTH: While some vitamin C is lost during cooking, turmeric and other spices enhance bioavailability of antioxidants. Steaming or covered cooking preserves more nutrients than boiling.

NutriScore by Health Goals

Health GoalNutriScoreWhy This Score?
Weight LossNutriScore B140 calories per cup, 6g fiber promotes fullness. Prepare with minimal oil (1-2 tbsp) for best results.
Muscle GainNutriScore CProvides 5g protein and carbs for energy. Best paired with high-protein foods like dal, paneer, or chicken for muscle recovery.
Diabetes ManagementNutriScore CModerate GI due to potatoes. Increase cauliflower ratio, use small portions (1/2 cup), pair with protein and fiber-rich foods.
PCOS ManagementNutriScore BHigh fiber and anti-inflammatory turmeric support hormone balance. Limit to 1 cup, increase cauliflower proportion.
Pregnancy NutritionNutriScore ARich in folate from cauliflower, vitamin C for iron absorption, potassium prevents cramps.
Viral/Flu RecoveryNutriScore A80mg vitamin C (89% DV) boosts immunity, easy to digest, turmeric provides anti-inflammatory benefits, warm and comforting.

PERSONALIZED NUTRITION

Track your meals with NutriScan for personalized NutriScores based on your specific health goals!

Blood Sugar Response to Aloo Gobi

Understanding how aloo gobi affects blood glucose helps you optimize timing and pairings for stable energy.

Typical Glucose Response Curve

*This chart shows typical blood glucose response for general healthy individuals. Individual responses may vary. Not medical advice.*

How to Flatten the Spike

Pairing aloo gobi with protein or additional fiber reduces the glucose peak and provides sustained energy:

  • 🥘 Dal (lentils) - Adds protein and additional fiber
  • 🧀 Paneer - Provides complete protein and healthy fats
  • 🥗 Raita (yogurt) - Probiotics and protein slow digestion
  • 🫓 Whole wheat roti - Additional fiber compared to white bread

This combination creates a balanced meal that stabilizes blood sugar while maximizing nutrition and satisfaction.

Cultural Significance

Aloo gobi is one of North India's most beloved vegetarian dishes, with roots in Punjabi and Mughlai cuisines dating back centuries.

In India:

  • Staple dish in North Indian households, especially Punjab and Delhi
  • Featured in Indian restaurants worldwide as a vegetarian signature dish
  • Often prepared during festivals and family gatherings
  • Symbolic of simple, wholesome home cooking
  • Variations exist across regions: some add tomatoes, peas, or cashews

Ayurvedic Perspective:

  • Turmeric provides anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits
  • Cauliflower balances all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)
  • Cumin and coriander seeds aid digestion
  • Considered a sattvic (pure) food when prepared fresh

Global Impact:

  • Popular in vegetarian and vegan menus worldwide
  • Adapted in fusion cuisines (tacos, wraps, bowls)
  • Key dish in Indian diaspora communities maintaining food traditions

Compare & Substitute

Aloo Gobi vs Similar Curries (Per 100g)

Nutrient🍛 Aloo Gobi🌶️ Bhindi Sabzi🧀 Paneer Curry🥘 Mixed Veg Curry
Calories70 kcal58 kcal135 kcal65 kcal
Carbs12g9g6g11g
Fiber3g3.5g1.5g3.2g
Protein2.5g2.2g7.5g2.8g
Fat2g1.5g10g2.5g
Vitamin C40mg18mg2mg35mg
Calcium30mg82mg180mg45mg
Best ForBalanced nutritionLow-calorieHigh protein, PCOSVitamin variety

Frequently Asked Questions

Is aloo gobi good for weight loss?

Yes, aloo gobi supports weight loss when prepared with minimal oil. One cup provides only 140 calories with 6g of fiber that promotes fullness and controls appetite.

Best practices: Use 1-2 tbsp oil maximum; increase cauliflower-to-potato ratio (2:1); steam or air-fry instead of sautéing; pair with dal for protein; limit to 1 cup per meal.

Can diabetics eat aloo gobi?

Diabetics can eat aloo gobi with modifications. The potatoes raise blood sugar, but cauliflower's fiber helps slow absorption.

Tips for diabetics: Increase cauliflower proportion (use 2:1 cauliflower to potato); limit portion to 1/2-3/4 cup; always pair with protein (dal, paneer, chicken); eat mid-day rather than at night; monitor blood sugar 2 hours after eating.

How many calories are in aloo gobi?

Calories depend on preparation:

  • Homemade (minimal oil): 140 calories per cup (70 per 100g)
  • Restaurant style: 220-280 calories per cup
  • Steamed/Air-fried: 100-120 calories per cup

For weight management, prepare at home with 1-2 tbsp oil and use air-frying or steaming methods.

What are the main health benefits of aloo gobi?

Key Benefits:

  1. Immune Support: 80mg vitamin C (89% daily value) boosts immunity
  2. Digestive Health: 6g fiber supports regular bowel movements and gut health
  3. Anti-Inflammatory: Turmeric's curcumin reduces inflammation
  4. Heart Health: Potassium (600mg) and fiber support cardiovascular function
  5. Antioxidants: Cauliflower provides sulforaphane and other protective compounds
  6. Cancer Prevention: Cruciferous vegetables may reduce cancer risk

Is aloo gobi healthier than other Indian curries?

Aloo gobi ranks among the healthier Indian curries when prepared properly:

Healthier than: Paneer butter masala, korma, malai kofta (all cream-based, high-calorie) Similar to: Bhindi masala, mixed vegetable curry, dal Less protein than: Paneer curry, chicken curry, chole (chickpea curry)

Make it healthier: Use minimal oil, increase vegetables, add protein source, avoid cream or cashew paste.

How can I make aloo gobi healthier?

Healthier Cooking Methods:

  • Reduce oil: Use 1-2 tbsp instead of 4-6 tbsp
  • Air-fry: Toss vegetables in 1 tsp oil and air-fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes
  • Steam first: Steam vegetables until 80% done, then quick-sauté with spices
  • Increase cauliflower: Use 2:1 cauliflower-to-potato ratio
  • Add protein: Mix in chickpeas or pair with dal
  • Extra veggies: Add peas, carrots, or green beans for more nutrients

What is the best time to eat aloo gobi?

Depends on your goal:

  • Weight Loss: Lunch (better metabolism during day); avoid dinner
  • Diabetes: Lunch, paired with dal and salad; not on empty stomach
  • Pregnancy: Any time, especially lunch for sustained energy
  • Athletic Performance: Post-workout lunch for carb replenishment

IMPORTANT NOTE

Avoid eating aloo gobi late at night - the carbs and spices may interfere with sleep quality.

Can I eat aloo gobi on a low-carb diet?

Modified versions work for low-carb diets:

Traditional recipe: 24g carbs per cup (not suitable) Low-carb modification:

  • Replace half the potato with cauliflower only (12g carbs)
  • Replace all potato with turnips or radish (8g carbs)
  • Add paneer for protein and fat to increase satiety

Track with NutriScan app to see how aloo gobi fits your specific carb targets.

Science-based nutrition recommendations
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