Breaking Down the Nutrition for 5 Dumplings
Beyond the total calorie count, the nutritional value of Waba Grill's 5-piece pork veggie dumplings consists of several key components that impact your overall health. When you order this appetizer, you're getting a mix of macronutrients that contribute to the total 210 calories. Here is a detailed look at the nutritional facts based on data from Nutritionix, which aligns with Waba Grill's menu information.
The Full Nutritional Profile
For a single 5-piece serving, here is the nutrient breakdown:
- Total Fat: 8g, which accounts for approximately 10% of the recommended daily value.
- Saturated Fat: 2g, contributing to 10% of the daily value.
- Cholesterol: 30mg, or 10% of the recommended daily value.
- Sodium: 1160mg, a significant amount that covers 50% of the daily value. This is a critical factor for anyone monitoring their sodium intake.
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g, making up 15% of the daily value.
- Dietary Fiber: 0g, indicating these dumplings offer no fiber content.
- Sugars: 11g.
- Protein: 7g, a modest amount for a side dish.
Calorie Comparison: Dumplings vs. Other Waba Grill Sides
To put the dumpling's calorie count into perspective, it's helpful to compare it with other appetizer or side options available at Waba Grill. This can help you choose a side that best fits your dietary needs.
| Item | Serving Size | Calories (cal) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dumplings | 5 PCS | 210 | Includes 1160mg of sodium. |
| Wontons | Side | 150 | A lower calorie option, but fried. |
| Half-ocado | Side | 150 | Contains healthy fats from avocado. |
| Edamame Kimchi | Side | 150 | A fermented, potentially healthier option. |
| Jalapeno Carrots | Side | 150 | A spicy, vegetable-based side. |
The Difference Between 5-Piece and 10-Piece Dumplings
For those with a larger appetite, Waba Grill also offers a 10-piece dumpling order. Doubling the serving size also doubles the calories and nutritional values. A 10-piece order contains 420 calories and a staggering 2,310mg of sodium, highlighting the importance of portion control when enjoying this appetizer. This is especially relevant if you are pairing it with a main dish like a bowl or plate, which already come with their own caloric and sodium content.
How to Factor 5 Dumplings into Your Diet
Given the nutritional breakdown, particularly the high sodium content, it's important to consider how the dumplings fit into a balanced meal. The key is moderation, especially for those with blood pressure concerns or who are counting calories. A 5-piece serving is a reasonable treat, but a 10-piece order, in addition to a main course, can significantly increase your daily intake of sodium and calories. Consider these points:
- Pair with Lighter Mains: If you opt for the dumplings, consider pairing them with a lighter main course, such as a veggie bowl with organic tofu or a mini bowl, to help balance your meal's overall nutritional impact.
- Mind the Sauce: The calorie counts for sides often do not include the dipping sauce. While Waba's signature sauce has a moderate 60 calories per ounce, others like BOOM BOOM sauce have 150 calories per ounce. Adding sauce will increase the total caloric load.
- Share with a Friend: Opting for the 10-piece and splitting it is a great way to enjoy the flavor without overdoing it on the calories and sodium. This also helps you sample other menu items in moderation.
Tips for a Healthier Waba Grill Order
To create a more balanced meal, follow these simple guidelines:
- Focus on Protein and Veggies: Prioritize main dishes that are rich in lean protein, such as chicken or salmon, and pair them with extra veggies.
- Skip High-Sodium Sides: Choose lower-sodium alternatives to the dumplings, like a half-ocado or edamame. Even the wontons offer a lower calorie choice if fried food is what you're craving.
- Use Sauce Sparingly: Instead of dousing your meal in sauce, use it sparingly as a flavor enhancer. You can also ask for lighter sauce options.
- Consider Water over Soda: Wash down your meal with water to avoid adding unnecessary sugar and calories from sweetened beverages.
For more in-depth nutritional tips, you can explore detailed menu information and healthy ordering strategies online.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
Ultimately, a 5-piece order of dumplings from Waba Grill contains 210 calories. While not the highest-calorie item on the menu, their notable sodium and carbohydrate content should be considered. By understanding the full nutritional profile, you can make a mindful decision that aligns with your health and fitness goals, whether that means enjoying them in moderation or choosing a different side altogether. The key is being informed and conscious of your overall consumption, rather than focusing on a single food item in isolation. This allows you to still enjoy your favorite dishes while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
List of Macronutrients for 5 Dumplings (approximate values)
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 7g
Healthier Waba Grill Alternatives
- Half-ocado: 150 cal
- Edamame Kimchi: 150 cal
- Chicken Veggie Mini Bowl: 290 cal
Note: The dumpling nutrition applies to the pork veggie dumplings specifically. The Chili Crisp dumplings may have different values.
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For a more comprehensive look at healthier menu choices, consult the detailed analysis on Verywell Fit: WaBa Grill Nutrition Facts: What to Order & Avoid
