Mderbel
Eggplant and Meat Stew
No, skip this one: about 32g net carbs per serving, close to a full day's carbs on strict keto. Better picks from the same menu are below.
Order one of these instead
What it is
A rich and hearty Algerian stew featuring tender slices of fried or roasted eggplant layered or simmered with seasoned lamb or beef in a savory tomato-based sauce, often spiced with paprika and cumin.
Key ingredients
Eggplant, lamb or beef (cubed or minced), onions, garlic, tomatoes (fresh or crushed), olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper.
If you order it anyway
Crucially, request *no potatoes or chickpeas* which are sometimes added to stews. Ensure a generous amount of olive oil is used, especially for frying eggplant. Verify no flour is used to thicken the sauce.
If you order it anyway, say this (Arabic)
المدربل من فضلك بدون بطاطا أو حمص. أريد كمية وفيرة من زيت الزيتون، خاصة للباذنجان، وهل الصلصة بدون دقيق؟
For the Mderbel, please no potatoes or chickpeas. Ensure a generous amount of olive oil, especially for the eggplant, and no flour to thicken the sauce.
Watch out for
Eggplant, while low-ish carb, can add up in large portions. Tomatoes and onions contribute to carbs. High-carb additions like potatoes or chickpeas must be avoided.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.
More on the Algerian menuAll 180 Algerian dishes ›
