I like to think that I lead a relatively healthy lifestyle. I drag myself to the gym at least five days a week and even try to avoid carbs for dinner -- big emphasis on "try".
Polpa has become a familiar name in the foodie scene, and it should be, as Bangkok has recently woken up to the healthy eating trend that for years has been in London, Los Angeles and Melbourne. Case in point -- try asking anyone over the age of 40 to eat kale and celery for dinner and you're likely to hear a loud shriek, followed by endless disapproving head shakes.
The offerings at Polpa are different to much of the healthy food I've seen and tried. Its main focus isn't on weight loss, but giving customers delicious, well-balanced meals substantial enough to keep them full. Since Central Chidlom Food Hall now stocks some of Polpa's dishes in takeaway boxes, I decided it was time to attempt to swap my lunchtime khao mun kai with something less likely to clog my arteries.
The Grilled chicken & quinoa (B280) is the perfect alternative to my usual chicken and rice, only I didn't feel the need afterwards to run 5km to burn it off. The generous portion sees succulent slices of chicken (aromatic from piri piri marinade), perfectly cooked quinoa, cranberries to add sweetness and spring onions for a herby kick. The dressing is tangy, with strong notes of citrus keeping the meal light and fresh.
I also gave Polpa's weekly dinner special a go. The Ham hock & piccalilli (B280) features creamy butter beans, carrots, celery, fennel seeds, crumbly cheddar cheese and smoky chunks of ham hock. It's a great twist on the traditional ploughman's lunch, and kept me full for hours. I didn't even experience the usual sweet cravings, which often result in me rummaging through my fridge for chocolates.
Other dishes are available online and are available for delivery. But if you're working near or passing by Chidlom, drop by and pick up a scrumptious meal you won't feel guilty about devouring.
Polpa is available at Central Chidlom Food Hall or online at www.polpa.co.
