Ready for some awesome Keto Chinese Food that fits your dietary goals? This is your comprehensive guide for navigating this flavorful world without the carb overload.
Whether you cook at home or opt for takeout, this guide will show you how to enjoy classic Chinese meals while staying true to your goals.
So, prepare to transform your dining experience where health goals and culinary pleasure meet.
Jump to:
- Is Chinese Food Keto-Friendly?
- How to Order Keto Chinese Food?
- Best Keto Chinese Food Recipes
- Frequently asked questions
Is Chinese Food Keto-Friendly?
When you're rocking the keto lifestyle, you might be wondering if Chinese food is keto-friendly. It can be keto-friendly but with a bit of a twist.
When you think of Chinese food, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Maybe it's the sweet and sour chicken or the heaping plates of fried rice.
Traditional Chinese food can be a minefield of hidden carbs, from thick sauces to those tempting baskets of egg rolls. However, you can enjoy your favorite dishes with a few smart choices and swaps.
How to Order Keto Chinese Food?
Ordering keto-friendly Chinese food, whether you're dining out or grabbing a takeout meal, doesn't have to be complicated. Here's how to keep it low-carb while still enjoying your favorites:
Best Keto Chinese Takeout Options
When scouting for the Keto Chinese Food takeout menu options, focusing on high-protein, low-carb choices is the way to go. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
1. Beef with Broccoli
- Net carbs: 8g
- Fat: 17g
- Protein: 29g
A staple in Chinese cuisine, this dish combines tender slices of beef with crisp, green broccoli. For a keto version, opt for a light sauce or request it on the side to minimize carbs.
2. Chop Suey
- Net carbs: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
This stir-fry is full of flavors, featuring eggs, veggies, and the meat of your choice. Replace traditional rice or noodles with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to keep it keto-friendly.
3. Kung Pao Shrimp
- Net carbs: 6g
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 20g
Enjoy this visually striking dish featuring plump shrimp and colorful bell peppers tossed in a glossy, light sauce and sprinkled with crunchy peanuts. To keep it keto, request a thinner sauce or less of it.
4. Moo Shu Pork
- Net carbs: 5g
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 20g
Enjoy this dish of stir-fried pork and vegetables, usually wrapped in a pancake, but ask it to be served without it here to fit keto guidelines. Also, request the sauce on the side or a lighter version.
5. Egg Foo Young
- Net carbs: 10g
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 31g
This is a comforting, omelette-like dish packed with vegetables and your choice of protein. Each forkful is fluffy and packed with flavor, making it a satisfying and delicious choice for any meal of the day. Add a protein like shrimp or chicken, and ask for minimal sauce.
6. Pork Belly
- Net carbs: 1g
- Fat: 40g
- Protein: 15g
Known for its crispy skin and tender meat, pork belly is an excellent low-carb option when prepared without sugary glazes. You can pair this with a side of bright, steamed green vegetables.
7. Steamed or Boiled Seafood
- Net carbs: 0g
- Fat: varies as per seafood
- Protein: varies as per seafood
Choose plain steamed or boiled seafood such as fish, shrimp, or crab paired with steamed veggies for a hearty, no-carb meal.
8. Egg Drop Soup
- Net carbs: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 5g
This soup is a classic Chinese comfort food that’s tasty and incredibly satisfying. The silky broth enriched with delicate egg strands creates a simple yet delicious soup that’s hard to resist. Ensure no thickening agents like cornstarch are used to keep it keto-friendly.
9. Baked Salmon
- Net carbs: 2g
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
It is a nutritious choice with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Seasoned with traditional Chinese spices and optionally garnished with sesame seeds, it’s a flavorful dish that’s naturally low in carbs.
10. Steamed Tofu with Mixed Veggies
- Net carbs: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 15g
Tofu, a low-carb source of protein, is combined with a variety of vegetables. This presents a serene and appealing palette of soft, white tofu nestled among a medley of brightly colored vegetables.
11. Mongolian Beef
- Net carbs: 6g
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
Enjoy thinly sliced beef sautéed with scallions and a light sauce. Its bold flavors and satisfying chew make it a favorite among keto and non-keto diners. Request the sauce on the side or a lower-sugar version to keep it keto-friendly.
12. Sautéed Broccoli
- Net carbs: 4g
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 5g
A simple yet satisfying side, sautéed broccoli can be enhanced with garlic and a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor without adding significant carbs.
13. Lettuce Cups
- Net carbs: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 15g
Fill crisp lettuce leaves with sautéed chicken, beef or pork, and veggies for a refreshing and light keto meal. This dish offers versatility and minimal carbs.
14. Stir-fried Mushrooms
- Net carbs: 3g
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 5g
This dish features mushrooms stir-fried in a light sauce, perfect for a vegetarian keto option. Ensure the sauce is prepared with low-carb ingredients.
15. Chicken and Broccoli
- Net carbs: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
This classic dish combines protein-rich chicken with fiber-rich broccoli, sautéed in a keto-friendly sauce. It's a filling meal that fits well within the keto guidelines.
Keto Vegetables and Seasonings for Chinese Dishes
When crafting a keto-friendly Chinese menu, selecting the right vegetables and seasonings is essential to maintain low carb counts while enhancing the dish's flavors.
Vegetables
- Broccoli: This versatile and low-carb veggie only contains 7 grams of carbs.
- Bok choy: A crisp addition to any stir-fry, with just 2.2 grams of carbs.
- Mushrooms: Add umami flavor to any dish with only 3 grams of carbs.
- Spinach: A versatile choice for soups or stir-fries, containing 3.6 grams of carbs.
- Zucchini: Great for noodle substitutions or as a stir-fry component, with 3.1 grams of carbs.
Seasonings and Garnishes
- Ginger: Adds a spicy, fresh kick to dishes.
- Garlic: Brings a pungent depth to meats and veggies alike.
- Green onions: For a bit of crunch and color without adding too many carbs.
- Sesame seeds: A sprinkle adds texture and a nutty flavor.
- Chili peppers: For that heat without the sweetness.
Opting for these ingredients in your keto Chinese food takeout can ensure you stay within your carb limit while still enjoying your meal.
Foods to Avoid
To keep your Asian cuisine experience truly keto-friendly, certain items are best left off your plate. Here’s what to steer clear of:
- Rice, in all its forms: Whether it's steamed white rice, fried rice, or sticky rice, this staple is a no-go for those keeping carbs in check.
- Noodles: From lo mein to chow mein and everything in between, these are packed with carbs that can quickly add up, nudging you out of ketosis.
- Breaded meats: That irresistible crunch of General Tso’s chicken or sweet and sour pork comes from a carb-heavy batter. It is better to skip these to keep your meal keto meals compliant.
- Sweet temptations: Sauces like duck sauce, plum sauce, and the beloved sweet and sour sauce are often loaded with sugar, making them less ideal for a keto diet.
By avoiding these items, you can savor the flavor of Chinese food without worrying about hidden and unwanted carbs sneaking into your meal.
Best Keto Chinese Food Recipes
Cooking keto-friendly Chinese food at home is easy and a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors you love without the carb overload. Check out these mouth-watering Chinese recipes that you can make faster than your local takeout can deliver:
Keto Cauliflower Fried Rice
Feel the joy of indulgence without the guilt with this keto fried rice. This dish swaps traditional rice for cauliflower, offering a satisfying crunch and robust flavors. You can top it with shrimp or chicken. It's a delightful way to maintain your keto goals while enjoying a classic.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 2 Servings
Keto Kung Pao Chicken Recipe
This Kung Pao Chicken dish delivers a fantastic combination of spicy and sweet flavors. The heat from the chilies and the mild crunch from the peanuts make this dish perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of heat with their meal.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 4 Servings
Keto Beef and Broccoli
Ditch the starchy sauce for this low-carb version of the traditional beef with broccoli, keeping all the flavor without the extra carbs.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 4 Servings
Keto Orange Chicken
Enjoy the crispy, tangy goodness of orange chicken with a coating that’s both naturally crispy and gluten-free, minus the flour. It's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 6 Servings
Keto Mongolian Beef
Swap out cornstarch for a low-carb thickener to create the perfect rich sauce for this Mongolian beef recipe. Experiment with different levels of heat, or add a sprinkle of green onions for an extra pop of color and freshness.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 4 Servings
Keto Sweet and Sour Chicken
Enjoy this classic dish without the sugar, featuring crispy chicken tossed in a tangy and sweet sauce. This dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a classic takeout dish.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 6 Servings
Keto Chinese Bok Choy
This simple yet flavorful dish highlights bok choy, a staple in Chinese cuisine known for its crisp texture and slightly peppery flavor. It's quick to prepare and pairs well with a variety of proteins.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 2 Servings
Keto Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
It offers a quick, nutritious twist on a traditional favorite. Ready in minutes, these sprouts are tossed with fiery chilies and crunchy peanuts, creating a healthy and flavorful side dish.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 6 Servings
Keto Chinese Broccoli
Steamed or stir-fried Chinese broccoli and mushroom is a simple, nutritious side dish that pairs well with any keto-friendly protein, maintaining low carbs while delivering a dose of greens.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 35 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 3 Servings
Keto Egg Foo Young Recipe
A keto version of the classic Chinese omelet, this dish is served with a keto-friendly gravy and garnished with fresh herbs. This omelet lets you play with flavors while enjoying a comforting, hearty meal.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 3 Servings
Keto Pepper Steak
This dish features thinly sliced steak sautéed with bell peppers and seasoned with a savory, low-carb sauce that complements the robust flavors of the beef and the sweetness of the peppers.
View full recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 28 Minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Makes 4 Servings
Each recipe captures the essence of Chinese food dishes while keeping your carb intake low, making them perfect for anyone on a keto diet looking for delicious, home-cooked meals.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can eat Chinese food on a keto diet by choosing dishes with lean proteins and non-starchy vegetables and avoiding sugary sauces and high-carb ingredients like rice and noodles.
Mediterranean, Mexican, and Indian cuisines are among the best for keto, thanks to their focus on healthy fats, proteins, and low-carb vegetables.
To make Chinese takeout keto-friendly at home, you can start by substituting high-carb ingredients like rice with cauliflower rice. For sauces and thickeners, use natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, which can provide sweetness without the carbs. Additionally, replace cornstarch, commonly used as a thickener, with xanthan gum, which can thicken sauces without adding significant carbs. These swaps help maintain the flavors of Chinese dishes while adhering to keto dietary guidelines.
Avoid cornstarch, sweet sauces (like hoisin and oyster sauce), and starchy bases such as rice and noodles, as these are high in carbs.
