Doubles are a popular Trinidadian street food made with fried flatbread and channa (curried chickpeas). Three pieces of Doubles, which weigh around 18 grams, contain approximately 70 calories.

While Doubles are delicious, it is important to understand the ingredients and nutritional information before making them a regular part of your diet. The flatbread is made with flour, baking powder, and water. The channa is typically made with chickpeas, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices like cumin and turmeric.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Doubles, including their nutritional value, health benefits, and ways to make them healthier.

What are Doubles?

Doubles are a popular Trinidadian street food that consist of two pieces of fried flatbread filled with curried chickpeas (also known as channa). The flatbread is made with flour, baking powder, and water and is typically fried until crispy. The channa is usually cooked with onions, garlic, and a variety of spices like cumin and turmeric. Doubles are often served with a variety of condiments like tamarind sauce, cucumber chutney, and pepper sauce.

Ingredients in Doubles

The main ingredients in Doubles are flour, baking powder, water, chickpeas, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices like cumin and turmeric. The flatbread is made with flour, baking powder, and water, and is typically fried until crispy. The channa is cooked with onions, garlic, and spices and is then placed between the two pieces of flatbread. While Doubles can be made with a variety of ingredients, the traditional recipe typically includes the ingredients listed above.

Nutritional Information

Three pieces of Doubles, which weigh around 18 grams, contain approximately 70 calories. They also contain 3 grams of protein, 10 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of fat. While Doubles can provide some nutritional benefits, it is important to understand that they are a high-calorie food that is typically fried in oil, which can add extra fat and calories. Additionally, Doubles can be high in sodium depending on the type of spices and condiments used.

Calories in 3 pieces of Doubles

As mentioned earlier, three pieces of Doubles, which weigh around 18 grams, contain approximately 70 calories. While this may not seem like a lot, it is important to consider the fact that Doubles are often consumed as a snack, and it can be easy to consume multiple servings without realizing how many calories you are consuming.

Is Doubles healthy?

While Doubles can provide some nutritional benefits, including protein and fiber from the chickpeas, they are not necessarily a healthy food option. Doubles are typically fried in oil and can be high in calories, fat, and sodium depending on the cooking method and condiments used. It is best to consume Doubles in moderation and to choose healthier cooking methods and condiments.

How many Doubles can I eat in a day?

The number of Doubles you can eat in a day depends on a variety of factors, including your overall diet, activity level, and health goals. While three pieces of Doubles may be a reasonable serving size for some people, it is important to be mindful of the calories, fat, and sodium content. It is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional to determine how much of any specific food you should be consuming.

Benefits of eating Doubles

Doubles can provide some nutritional benefits when consumed in moderation. The chickpeas in the channa filling are a good source of protein and fiber, which can help keep you full and satisfied. Additionally, Doubles can be a tasty and unique food option that allows you to explore different flavors and cuisines.

Ways to make Doubles healthier

While Doubles are often fried and high in calories and fat, there are some ways to make them a healthier food option. One way is to bake the flatbread instead of frying it, which can reduce the amount of oil and calories. Additionally, you can use a variety of healthier fillings, such as vegetables, to add additional nutrients.

Alternatives to Doubles

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to Doubles, there are a variety of options available. One option is to substitute the traditional flatbread with a whole grain pita or wrap. Additionally, you can use a variety of fillings, such as grilled chicken or fish, to add protein and nutrients.

Conclusion

Doubles are a popular Trinidadian street food that can provide some nutritional benefits when consumed in moderation. While they are often high in calories, fat, and sodium, there are ways to make them a healthier option, such as baking the flatbread instead of frying it and using healthier fillings. Remember to practice moderation and to speak with a healthcare professional to determine how much of any specific food you should be consuming.