Indian food is a vibrant mix of flavors, textures, and spices that tantalize the senses. One of the most iconic staples in Indian cuisine is naan, a soft and chewy flatbread traditionally served with curries, tandoori dishes, or even used to scoop up delicious sauces. However, for those following a keto diet, enjoying naan might seem off-limits due to its carb-heavy ingredients. But worry not! With a few adjustments, you can indulge in a keto-friendly version of naan that pairs perfectly with your favorite Indian meals.
One ingredient that makes Indian food even more indulgent and wholesome is ghee—clarified butter used in Indian cooking for centuries. Ghee is not only rich in flavor but also packed with healthy fats, making it a great addition to a ketogenic lifestyle. It imparts a nutty, buttery essence to naan, bringing a delightful balance to the flavors of spicy curry dishes.
Keto Naan Recipe
This keto naan recipe is designed to keep the texture and taste of traditional naan while using keto-friendly ingredients. It’s soft, chewy, and perfect for dipping into flavorful curries!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp coconut flour
- 1 tbsp psyllium husk powder
- 1/2 tsp xanthan gum (optional for elasticity)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup full-fat Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt for dairy-free)
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp ghee (for cooking, plus extra for brushing)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp warm water
Instructions:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut flour, psyllium husk, xanthan gum, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg, add yogurt, and mix until smooth. Gradually add the warm water to the mixture.
- Combine and Knead: Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until a dough forms. Knead lightly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. Let the dough sit for 5 minutes to absorb moisture and firm up.
- Shape the Naan: Divide the dough into 2 equal portions (for two servings). Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it with your hands or a rolling pin into a naan shape.
- Cook the Naan: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp of ghee. Cook each piece of naan for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly puffed. Add more ghee if needed.
- Brush and Serve: Once cooked, brush the naan with melted ghee for extra flavor and softness.
Why Ghee is Amazing
Ghee is a form of clarified butter that has been used in Indian cooking for thousands of years. Unlike regular butter, ghee is simmered until all the water evaporates, and the milk solids are removed. This process results in a pure, rich butterfat that’s lactose-free and highly nutritious. Ghee has a high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking and frying without breaking down into harmful compounds.
Ghee is rich in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), and it also contains butyrate, a fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory properties. For those following a keto diet, ghee provides an excellent source of healthy fats that help fuel the body and promote ketosis. Plus, it enhances the flavor of naan, giving it that authentic Indian taste.
Tips:
- Texture Modifications: If you prefer a softer naan, you can add a little more yogurt. For a crispier version, cook the naan a bit longer on each side and add an extra brush of ghee.
- Variations: Feel free to add minced garlic or chopped fresh cilantro to the dough for a garlic naan variation.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 5g net carbs
- Fiber: 4g
This keto naan is a great low-carb alternative to traditional naan, and it works wonderfully with Indian curries, chutneys, or as a snack on its own. The use of ghee adds a unique richness to the bread, making it even more enjoyable while staying true to your keto goals. So grab your favorite curry, dip your keto naan, and enjoy the incredible flavors of India!
