Pepián de Pollo (Keto Version)
Chicken and Seed-Thickened Stew (without Carbs)
Yes, with a tweak: emphasize no rice and no tortillas. About 9g net carbs per serving.
What it is
One of Guatemala's national dishes, this complex stew features tender chicken pieces in a rich, reddish-brown sauce. The sauce is traditionally thickened naturally by ground roasted seeds (like pepitas and sesame), roasted tomatoes, and tomatillos, making its base inherently keto-friendly. All starchy vegetables and carb sides must be omitted.
Key ingredients
Chicken pieces (e.g., leg and thigh), roasted tomatoes, tomatillos, onions, garlic, various chiles (e.g., guajillo, pasilla), roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds), sesame seeds, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, cooking oil, chicken broth.
How to make it keto
Emphasize no rice and no tortillas. Confirm that the stew does not contain starchy vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or güisquil (chayote). It's also wise to inquire if any flour or masa is used as a thickener, although authentic Pepián typically relies on seeds.
Watch out for
While traditionally seed-thickened, some restaurants might use flour or masa as an additional thickener. Starchy vegetables (potatoes, carrots, chayote) are often included in the stew. Universally served with high-carb rice and tortillas.
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 Guatemalan menuAll 1,212 Guatemalan dishes ›
