Yes, you can enjoy chop suey on a keto diet with a few modifications to ensure it remains low in carbohydrates.
Chop suey, a dish typically made with meat (often chicken, beef, or pork), eggs, and vegetables like bean sprouts, cabbage, and celery, can be quite keto-friendly depending on how it's prepared and served. The key is to avoid high-carb additions like rice and traditional noodles and to focus on the protein and vegetable components.
Making Chop Suey Keto-Friendly
To ensure your chop suey aligns with a ketogenic lifestyle, whether you're dining out or cooking at home, consider the following adjustments:
When Ordering at a Restaurant
When ordering chop suey from a Chinese restaurant, clearly communicate your dietary needs.
- Request no rice or noodles: This is the most crucial step, as rice and wheat-based noodles are high in carbohydrates and will quickly exceed your daily keto carb limit.
- Ask for extra vegetables: Many restaurants are happy to accommodate requests for additional low-carb vegetables, such as bean sprouts, cabbage, bell peppers, or broccoli, which can add volume and nutrients without adding significant carbs.
- Be mindful of sauces: Some sauces can contain hidden sugars or starches. If possible, inquire about the sauce ingredients or ask for it on the side to control the amount you use.
When Preparing at Home
Making chop suey at home gives you full control over the ingredients, making it easier to keep it keto-compliant.
- Focus on the protein and vegetable base: Use a generous amount of your chosen meat (chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp) and a variety of low-carb vegetables.
- Opt for low-carb alternatives to rice and noodles:
- Riced cauliflower: A popular and versatile substitute for rice.
- Zucchini noodles (zoodles): Great for mimicking the texture of traditional noodles.
- Shirataki noodles: These "miracle noodles" are very low in calories and carbs.
- Other low-carb noodles: Explore options made from konjac or other keto-friendly ingredients.
- Increase the portion of the chop suey itself: Without the carb-heavy sides, you might want a larger portion of the main stir-fry to feel satisfied.
- Control the sauce: Prepare your own keto-friendly sauce using ingredients like soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and a natural sweetener if desired, avoiding cornstarch or added sugars.
By following these simple guidelines, you can comfortably include chop suey as a delicious and satisfying meal in your keto diet.
