Breakdown of the 99 Restaurant Turkey Dinner Calories
When analyzing the caloric content of a restaurant meal, it's important to look beyond the overall number and consider the components individually. The 1,370-calorie Roasted Turkey Dinner from the Ninety Nine Restaurants is a composite of several different parts. Understanding the calorie breakdown can help in making more informed decisions about your meal.
Components of the Roasted Turkey Dinner
The standard Roasted Turkey Dinner from the Ninety Nine typically includes several elements that contribute to its total calorie count. Here's a look at the potential caloric weight of each item, based on typical restaurant preparation:
- Roasted Turkey: The turkey breast itself is often the leanest part of the meal, with a single serving of plain roasted turkey generally containing a moderate amount of calories. However, restaurant preparation, which may include basting with butter or oil, can increase this significantly.
- Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a starchy, high-calorie side dish. When prepared with added butter, cream, and gravy, their calorie count can easily exceed what one might expect.
- Biscuit: Biscuits, especially honey butter biscuits, are a dense source of carbohydrates and fat, contributing a substantial number of calories to the overall meal.
- Cranberry Sauce: While often perceived as a healthier condiment, cranberry sauce is high in sugar, which adds to the total caloric load.
- Gravy: The gravy drizzled over the turkey and potatoes is typically high in both fat and sodium, making it a significant caloric contributor.
Comparing Calorie Counts: Restaurant vs. Homemade
There is often a significant difference between the calories in a restaurant meal and a comparable homemade version. This is due to a variety of factors, including portion size and ingredient preparation. Restaurant dishes are often prepared with higher-fat ingredients to enhance flavor, and portions are often much larger than a typical serving at home.
Comparison of Turkey Dinner Calories
| Item | 99 Restaurant Calories (Estimated) | Homemade Version (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Turkey Breast | 400-500 | 250-300 |
| Mashed Potatoes & Gravy | 400-500 | 200-250 |
| Biscuit | 150-200 | 100-150 |
| Cranberry Sauce | 50-100 | 30-50 |
| Total (Approximate) | 1,370 | 600-750 |
Note: These are estimations for a typical homemade dinner. Homemade calorie counts can vary widely based on ingredients used.
Tips for Reducing Calories When Dining Out
For those who want to enjoy a turkey dinner at a restaurant like the 99 but are mindful of their calorie intake, there are several strategies you can employ:
- Skip or substitute high-calorie sides: Ask if you can replace the mashed potatoes with a lower-calorie option like steamed vegetables or a side salad with light dressing. Most restaurants are accommodating to such requests.
- Go easy on the sauce: Cranberry sauce, while a classic accompaniment, is full of added sugar. Similarly, the gravy adds a lot of unnecessary fat and sodium. Ask for it on the side and use it sparingly.
- Adjust portions: When the plate arrives, set aside a portion of the meal, especially the carbohydrates, to save for a later meal. This immediately reduces your calorie intake for that sitting.
- Ask for plain preparation: If possible, request your turkey be prepared without extra butter or oil. Also, inquire about the mashed potatoes and if they can be made with less added fat.
- Choose water over high-calorie drinks: Many people overlook the calories from beverages. Sticking to water, unsweetened tea, or another zero-calorie drink can save hundreds of calories.
Nutritional Context
The calorie count of 1,370 for the full Roasted Turkey Dinner is nearly two-thirds of the FDA's general recommendation for a 2,000-calorie daily diet. This makes it a very hearty and filling meal, but it also means it should be factored into your total daily and weekly nutritional planning if you are watching your weight. The high sodium content, which has been reported to be high in some menu items, is another nutritional aspect to consider. Turkey is a lean protein, but its health benefits are diminished when covered in fatty gravies and accompanied by high-carb sides. Choosing wisely can allow you to enjoy the meal while maintaining your health goals.
Conclusion
While a delicious and hearty meal, the Roasted Turkey Dinner at the 99 Restaurants is calorie-dense, with a reported 1,370 calories per serving. This is due to the combination of rich sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, and a biscuit. By being mindful of your choices, such as requesting healthier substitutions or adjusting portion sizes, you can still enjoy a meal while staying on track with your nutritional goals. Always consider the overall nutritional context, including sodium and fat content, when making your dining selections.
