Keto Empal Bacem (Sugar-Free Braised Beef)
Keto Sugar-Free Braised Beef
Yes, with a tweak: absolutely no sugar, no kecap manis (sweet soy sauce). About 5g net carbs per serving, lower than 6 in 10 Indonesian dishes.
What it is
Tender beef slices slowly braised in a savory, aromatic broth with a sugar-free, sweet soy sauce alternative. This keto version retains the deep umami and spice of traditional Empal Bacem without the high sugar content.
Key ingredients
Beef slices (e.g., sirloin, chuck), coconut water or beef broth, tamari/sugar-free soy sauce, garlic, shallots, coriander, galangal, bay leaves, lemongrass, salt, pepper, erythritol (optional, for sweetness), cooking oil for frying.
How to make it keto
Absolutely no sugar, no kecap manis (sweet soy sauce). Use regular soy sauce or tamari, and a keto-friendly sweetener if a touch of sweetness is desired. Confirm no other carb-heavy ingredients in the braising liquid.
Say this to the waiter (Indonesian)
Empal Bacem: mohon sama sekali tanpa gula dan kecap manis. Pakai kecap asin biasa, pastikan tidak ada bahan karbohidrat lain di kuahnya.
Empal Bacem: absolutely no sugar or kecap manis. Please use regular soy sauce and ensure no other carb ingredients.
Watch out for
Traditionally loaded with palm sugar and sweet soy sauce (kecap manis).
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.
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