Mexican Food on the Keto Diet/Lifestyle

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One of the most rewarding food journeys starts when we skip the tortillas, rice, and beans and dive deeper into the rich world of keto-friendly Mexican cuisine. From the Americanized versions of Tex-Mex, Cal-Mex, and New Mexico-style to authentic metropolitan and coastal Mexican cuisines,  you will find plenty of dishes that are full of flavor and low in carbs.

3 Essential Rules for Eating Mexican and Staying in Ketosis

1. Look for Keto-Friendly Mexican Ingredients You Can Rely On

Though the menu will vary at each restaurant, there are some keto-friendly Mexican options you are likely to find, even at the most authentic and unique spots. Follow these simple guidelines:

  • Stick to simple meat or seafood-based dishes. Anything grilled or cooked on a skillet are typically the most keto-friendly. Just ask them to hold the beans (frijoles), rice (arroz), corn (maize), and tortillas.
  • Add flavor with salsa fresca (also known as pico de gallo or salsa cruda), guacamole, sour cream, chimichurri, and/or shredded cheese.
  • Double-check the ingredients in salsas, moles, and queso. Though many of these sauces are keto-friendly, they may feature high-sugar fruits (e.g., mango salsa and mole blanco) or carb-dense flour.
  • If you need a chip replacement, bring your own pork rinds or ask for chicharrones. For a vegetable option, try low-carb vegetables like celery, cucumbers, radishes, jicama, and romaine lettuce spears.
  • Ask your waiter if you can substitute extra vegetables for rice, beans, and tortillas. Most restaurants have a vegetable medley, zucchini, or mushrooms that go well with most meat dishes. You can also ask for a simple side salad.
  • Stick with simple drinks you already know are keto-friendly. Or, if you want to try something new, check out the drinks listed in the next section.

2. Know What to Avoid

Image result for Mexican Food on the Keto

It’s pretty easy to spot carbs when you know where to look, especially in Mexican dishes. In general, most of the carbs will come from beans (frijoles), rice (arroz), corn (maize), and tortillas, and these will be easy to spot on the menu.

Other carb-dense items to look out for:

  • Tamales, empanadas, or pupusas
  • Quesadillas
  • Enchiladas
  • Picadillos
  • Fruity drinks
  • Sweet dressings
  • Plantains (plátanos verdes)
  • Bananas (plátanos maduros)
  • Yucca
  • Fruit-based salsa
  • Fruit juice
  • Horchatas
  • Aquas Frescas
  • Most desserts and special cocktails

3. Plan Ahead

There are plenty of keto Mexican menu items, recipes, and on-the-go options that are easy to miss. By taking some extra time to do research, you can discover a wealth of flavors that you simply won’t find with any other cuisine.

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