Discover the flavors of China without sacrificing your ketogenic diet. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 deliciously low-carb and mouth-watering keto Chinese recipes that will transport your taste buds to the Far East. From classic dishes like Keto Kung Pao Chicken and Low-Carb Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry, to modern twists like Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp and Zucchini Noodle Lo Mein, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned keto cook or just starting your low-carb journey, these recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Keto Kung Pao Chicken
This recipe puts a low-carb twist on the classic Chinese dish, replacing noodles with cauliflower “rice” and using coconut aminos for added flavor. The result is a mouth-numbingly spicy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for keto enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cauliflower “rice” (see note)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
– 2 tsp Kung Pao sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook cauliflower “rice” according to package instructions.
2. Heat coconut oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add Kung Pao sauce, scallions, and peanuts to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until sauce is bubbly.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir-fry until coated with sauce.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Low-Carb Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavors of beef and broccoli with a hint of garlic, all within a quick 15-minute cooking time. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the broccoli mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Keto Egg Foo Young
A twist on the classic Chinese omelette, this Keto-friendly version is a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch option. By using cauliflower rice and a low-carb batter, we’ve turned a traditional dish into a keto lover’s dream.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup cauliflower rice
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (Keto-friendly)
– 1 tablespoon butter or cooking spray
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 tablespoons chopped scallions and/or 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs until well-whisked.
2. Add cauliflower rice, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to the eggs. Mix well.
3. Heat butter or cooking spray in a small non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
5. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the omelette towards the center, allowing uncooked egg to flow to the edges.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the eggs are almost set.
7. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate. Garnish with chopped scallions and/or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 minutes total
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp
A low-carb twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe replaces rice with cauliflower and adds succulent shrimp for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, thawed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the cauliflower “rice” and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and sour pork is a classic Chinese dish that’s easy to make and deliciously flavorful. This keto version uses a sugar-free sweet and sour sauce made with fresh ingredients, making it a great option for low-carb dieters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork tenderloin or boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 cup sugar-free sweet and sour sauce (see below)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Sugar-Free Sweet and Sour Sauce:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup sugar substitute (such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener)
– 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, combine the sugar-free sweet and sour sauce ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Add the cooked pork back into the skillet and toss to coat with the sweet and sour sauce.
7. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Green Beans
Experience the bold flavors of China with this simple and addictive recipe for Spicy Szechuan Green Beans. This dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine, perfect for adding a kick to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add green beans; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and Szechuan peppercorns.
5. Pour the sauce over the green beans; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until beans are coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Keto General Tso’s Chicken
This low-carb take on General Tso’s Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into your ketogenic diet. With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (make sure it’s sugar-free)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and brush with General Tso’s sauce.
7. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce is caramelized.
8. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Belly Stir-Fry with Bok Choy
A savory and aromatic stir-fry that combines the rich flavors of pork belly with the tender crunch of bok choy. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork belly and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the bok choy and stir-fry until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Return the pork belly to the pan and add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Mongolian Beef
Experience the bold flavors of Mongolia with this keto-friendly twist on a classic dish. Tender beef strips are marinated in a savory mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then quickly cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Add the beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
3. Preheat a skillet or wok over high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Lo Mein
This recipe transforms traditional lo mein into a healthier, zucchini-based dish that’s just as flavorful and satisfying. By swapping out noodles for zucchini noodles, you’ll cut down on carbs and calories while keeping the rich, savory flavors of this beloved stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed veggies; cook until tender-crisp, 3-4 minutes.
5. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add zucchini noodles; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until slightly softened.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Keto Shrimp with Lobster Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent keto recipe, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in a rich lobster sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup lobster meat (fresh or frozen), flaked
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lobster meat, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stir-Fried Garlic Ginger Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of garlic, the spiciness of ginger, and the juiciness of chicken. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir-fry until cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Keto Hot and Sour Soup
This recipe is a twist on traditional hot and sour soup, adapted to fit the keto diet’s requirements. With a rich and savory broth, crunchy veggies, and a tangy kick, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons of avocado oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce (make sure it’s sugar-free)
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon of white pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1/2 cup of mushrooms, sliced
– 1/4 cup of snow peas, sliced
– 1/4 cup of scallions, chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat the avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and add the sliced mushrooms, snow peas, and scallions. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a delicate balance of flavors, where the natural sweetness of fish is enhanced by the boldness of ginger and scallions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, e.g., cod, tilapia, or snapper)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions), including whites and greens
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Place fish fillets in the steamer, leaving some space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ginger slices, scallions, soy sauce, and olive oil.
4. Spoon the ginger-scallion mixture evenly over the fish fillets.
5. Steam for 8-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Keto Char Siu Pork
Elevate your keto diet with this unique and flavorful recipe for Char Siu Pork, where sweet and savory flavors come together to create a mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup coconut aminos
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (make sure it’s sugar-free)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the pork strips to the marinade and mix well to coat.
4. Place the marinated pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle sesame oil over the pork and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tofu and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines the savory taste of tofu with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a sweet and sour sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keto Sesame Chicken
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this keto-friendly chicken dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stir-Fried Cabbage with Bacon
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to cook cabbage, perfect as a side dish or addition to your favorite stir-fry. The smoky flavor of bacon adds depth and richness to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the bold flavors and spicy heat of Chinese cuisine, all while staying low-carb! This collection of 18 recipes offers a mouthwatering array of keto-friendly twists on classic Chinese dishes. From savory stir-fries to comforting soups and noodle dishes, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings without sacrificing your dietary goals. Try Keto Kung Pao Chicken, Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp, or Spicy Szechuan Green Beans for a taste adventure that’s both delicious and healthy.
