Ketogenic Nasi Lemak

Nasi lemak, Malaysia’s national dish, gets a low-carb makeover in this keto version. Trading rice for cauliflower rice and swapping traditional condiments for keto-friendly ones transforms this classic into a diet-approved meal without sacrificing flavor. The fragrant coconut rice, crispy anchovies, hard-boiled eggs and spicy sambal still star while keeping carbs minimal. Read on for the step-by-step recipe for how to “ketofy” nasi lemak at home.

Ingredients

To make 2 servings of ketogenic nasi lemak you will need:

For the cauliflower rice:

• 3 cups riced cauliflower
• 1⁄4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 1⁄2 tsp sea salt
• 1⁄4 tsp ground turmeric

For the toppings:

• 2 hardboiled eggs, peeled and halved
• 1⁄4 cup ikan bilis (fried anchovies), storebought or homemade
• 1⁄4 cup keto-friendly peanuts or other nuts
• 1⁄4 cup sugar-free sambal oelek or sriracha
• 2 tbsp chopped scallions
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Make the Cauliflower Rice

First, rice the cauliflower using a food processor or grater. Then:

1. Heat coconut milk, salt and turmeric in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add riced cauliflower and cook 5-7 minutes until tender.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cauliflower Rice Tips

Squeeze out excess moisture from the cauliflower rice before cooking for a fluffier texture.

Assemble the Nasi Lemak

To serve:

1. Scoop the cauliflower rice into bowls.
2. Top with half a hardboiled egg.
3. Sprinkle over ikan bilis and nuts.
4. Drizzle with sambal oelek.
5. Garnish with scallions and serve with lime wedges.

Serving Suggestions

For extra protein, serve ketogenic nasi lemak with chicken or beef rendang on the side.

Nasi Lemak Topping Ideas

Part of nasi lemak’s appeal is the variety of toppings and condiments. Try these keto-approved options:

• Fried eggs instead of hardboiled
• Chicken or beef rendang
• Tempeh or tofu
• Sambal belacan or other chili paste
• Sugar-free peanut sauce
• Crunchy pork rinds
• Fried shallots
• Dried shrimp
• Cucumber slices

Choose your favorite toppings to customize your plate!

Cauliflower Rice Tips

For best results with the cauliflower rice, follow these tips:

• Use fresh cauliflower, not frozen
• Grate evenly for rice-like texture
• Squeeze out moisture before cooking
• Don't overcook - cook until just tender
• Season well with salt, spices, herbs

Storage

Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days. The cauliflower rice may get slightly moist but still reheats well. Crisp the rice back up by sautéing with a bit of oil before serving.

Nutrition Information

One serving of ketogenic nasi lemak provides:

• Calories: 230
• Fat: 18g
• Net carbs: 9g
• Protein: 13g

This makes an excellent high fat, moderate protein, low carb meal for ketogenic diets.

Health Benefits

Some of the health benefits of this dish include:

• Cauliflower rice - vitamins, antioxidants, fiber
• Coconut milk - MCTs, electrolytes
• Eggs - high quality protein, B vitamins
• Ikan bilis - omega-3's, protein
• Sambal - capsaicin, antioxidants

Other Keto Rice Substitutes

Instead of cauliflower rice, try these low-carb bases:

• Cabbage fried rice
• Broccoli rice
• Zucchini rice
• Konjac rice
• Celeriac rice

Get creative with vegetable and nut based "rices" on keto!

Conclusion

Ketogenic nasi lemak keeps all the traditional flavors while transforming the rice to a low-carb base. Cauliflower rice gives the dish body without spiking carbs. Toppings like ikan bilis, hardboiled eggs and sambal provide plenty of flavor and texture. Customize your plate by mixing and matching your favorite nasi lemak addons. Elevate this Malaysian classic to a keto-friendly anytime meal that's satisfying and nutritious.

FAQs

What cooking oil is best for frying the anchovies?

Coconut oil or palm oil work well for frying ikan bilis to keep it traditionally flavored.

Can I use shredded cabbage instead?

Yes, shredded green or red cabbage can substitute for the cauliflower rice.

Is nasi lemak originally Malaysian or Indonesian?

While both countries have versions, nasi lemak is considered the national dish of Malaysia.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Omit the anchovies and eggs and use chili paste without shrimp.

What drinks pair well with nasi lemak?

On keto, sugar free iced coffee or tea are excellent beverage options.