Lham bil Qara' (Keto-Style)
Libyan Lamb Stew with Pumpkin (Keto-Style)
Yes, with a tweak: request very limited pumpkin to control carb content, or substitute with more zucchini or eggplant if possible. About 13g net carbs per serving, on the higher side for Libyan food, so watch the portion.
What it is
A rich and savory Libyan lamb stew, traditionally cooked with tender pumpkin pieces. For a keto version, the pumpkin is used sparingly to add flavor without excessive carbs, combined with the rich, fatty lamb in a spiced tomato-based sauce.
Key ingredients
Lamb shoulder or leg, olive oil, onion, garlic, tomato paste, canned crushed tomatoes, minimal pumpkin, chickpeas (omit for stricter keto), harissa, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, salt, fresh mint.
How to make it keto
Request very limited pumpkin to control carb content, or substitute with more zucchini or eggplant if possible. Omit chickpeas. Confirm no added sugars or flour thickeners in the stew. Serve without bread or couscous.
Say this to the waiter (Arabic)
للحم بالقرع، الرجاء كمية قرع قليلة جداً، أو كوسا/باذنجان بدلاً منها. بدون حمص. لا سكر أو طحين كمكثف. يقدم بدون خبز أو كسكسي.
For Lham bil Qara', use limited pumpkin or more zucchini/eggplant. Omit chickpeas. No added sugar/flour thickeners. Serve without bread/couscous.
Watch out for
Pumpkin is naturally higher in carbs; portion control is crucial. Tomato paste and crushed tomatoes contribute carbs. Chickpeas are often included and must be omitted for keto. Hidden sugars in tomato products.
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 Libyan menuAll 203 Libyan dishes ›
