4x under 400 kcal

In December, the number of calories we eat suddenly shoots straight up. Delicious, but how do you squeeze yourself into that tight Christmas dress or that smart suit? Don’t worry, with these meals you can keep your calorie intake during December somewhat within bounds.

Whatever you do, don’t worry—I would never let you starve. I’m a big eater, and these meals keep me full all evening. Enjoy!

Pumpkin soup with saffron croutons

Maybe a bit of an obvious choice, but with a big bowl of vegetable soup, you’re always safe. This pumpkin soup with saffron croutons gives you comfort and a killer body at the same time. What more could you want?

Congee

In every article I write, I try to work congee in. It’s the only dish I eat every week, and I’d love for the rest of the Netherlands to become just as enthusiastic about it as I am. Please, make this low-calorie yet oh-so-divine Chinese rice porridge. The recipe includes ground pork, but I always leave it out and add some small cubes of (silken) tofu at the end. You can also dress this dish up with whatever you like. For example, go for (pickled) cucumber, a soft-boiled egg, thin rings of spring onion, pak choi or spinach. I even always top it with chili oil and crispy fried onions, and still stay neatly under 400.

Eggplant frittata

When I really need to put the brakes on, this is the dish I eat. The frittata contains fried eggplant cut into thin strips, cabbage, garlic, ginger and soy sauce. On top goes a fresh cabbage salad with chili and lime, and the combination of the two is absolutely incredible. Add two slices of toasted whole-wheat bread and you’re still well within the green zone.

Ottolenghi’s eggplant with bulgur

Ottolenghi is the king of eggplant, and as it happens, it’s my favorite vegetable. This recipe for oven-roasted spiced eggplant with bulgur and a generous spoonful of yogurt is packed with flavor. Savory, sweet and fresh, all at once. After all, we’re talking about Ottolenghi. I often make too much of this as well and take it to work for lunch. Jealous colleagues guaranteed.