Carbs can easily be a big “alert word” when going into a new diet, as many diets quickly brand carbs as the enemy. This word starts to carry even more weight (even though we’re trying to lose some) when someone decides to start on a keto diet. It can be challenging, yet the rewards are undeniable.
The challenging part is, however, how can you keep enjoying some of your favorite foods without completely deconstructing them or omitting carbs altogether? Because regardless of the diet, carbs are important. They’re an essential part of our bodily functions and how we get energy throughout the day, so what we want to aim for is how to get our carbs in a clever and keto-friendly way.
Luckily, with the ever growing interest in keto diets, we have a plethora of keto friendly dietary options. Foods like burritos, poke bowls, fried rice, and mushroom risotto are all things you might be missing on a ketogenic diet without these alternatives. Why does rice have to be so heavy in carbs?! Well, sigh no more! There are plenty of low carb rice alternatives that you can make right from home!
1. Riced mushrooms
Riced mushrooms are the keto substitute you didn’t know you were missing. This might be shocking, but finely chopped mushrooms make an amazing keto friendly rice alternative! Mushrooms are rich in niacin, antioxidants, fiber, and potassium! While they are low in fat, they are also low in carbohydrates, sodium, and calories. For one serving (one cup) of riced mushrooms, there are about 16 calories, 0.2 grams of fat (with 0.0 grams of saturated fat), 2 grams of carbs, 1 gram of fiber, 1.5 grams of sugar, 4 milligrams of sodium, and 2 grams of protein (which helps to keep you fuller longer).
2. Broccoli rice
Broccoli is very keto friendly, even in large portions! It is low on carbs and high on vitamin C. Therefore, this is an excellent way to load your plate with an extra bit of green. We also shoul mention that you can eat broccoli rice raw! It’s high in fiber and low in carbs, making it an excellent option for a low carb rice substitute. Per one serving (85 grams), there are 20 calories, 0 grams of fat, 4 grams of carbs, 3 grams of fiber, 1 gram of sugar, 20 milligrams of sodium, and 2 grams of protein.
3. Cauliflower rice
Cauliflower rice is pretty much everyone’s favorite. You can find it in grocery stores all over the country, from the Winn Dixie to the Trader Joe’s. However, you can make it yourself very easily, by finely chopping cauliflower. Per one serving (3/4 cup), there are zero grams of fat, 4 grams of carbs, 2 grams of fiber, 2 grams of sugar, 20 milligrams of sodium, and 2 grams of protein.
Fall in Love With Rice
So take a breath and rest easy knowing that there are ways to keep enjoying your foods while still being able to hit your dietary goals. With these alternative rice options, you’ll be amazed at how versatile your recipe book can still be while still maintaining ketosis. We live in an age where dieting is no longer a headache. With so many keto-friendly options out there, there’s no reason not to give it a try. Check out Sugarless Crystals‘ awesome low carb rice recipe here: Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe – Sugarless Crystals. This is an easily customizable recipe, whether you prefer cauliflower rice, broccoli rice, or even mushroom rice! Any low carb rice is doable for this keto recipe.