Djej Mqalli bi Zaytoun wa Hamad
Keto-Friendly Chicken with Olives & Preserved Lemon
Yes, with a tweak: request no bread, couscous, or other starchy sides. About 14g net carbs per serving, on the higher side for Moroccan food, so watch the portion.
What it is
A classic Moroccan tagine-style dish where succulent chicken pieces are braised in a rich, aromatic sauce. The sauce is made with green olives, preserved lemons, onions, garlic, and traditional spices like ginger, turmeric, and saffron. It is deeply flavorful and savory.
Key ingredients
Chicken pieces (thighs/legs), green olives, preserved lemons, onions, garlic, ginger, turmeric, saffron, olive oil, fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, salt, pepper.
How to make it keto
Crucially, request no bread, couscous, or other starchy sides. Confirm no added carrots or potatoes, which are sometimes included in tagines. Request no added sugar or honey in the sauce.
Say this to the waiter (Arabic)
أرغب في الدجاج المقلي بالزيتون والليمون. من فضلك بدون خبز أو كسكس أو أي نشويات. وتأكد ألا يكون فيه جزر أو بطاطس، ولا سكر أو عسل في الصلصة.
I'd like the Djej Mqalli. Please no bread, couscous, or starchy sides. Confirm no carrots, potatoes, sugar, or honey in the sauce.
Watch out for
Hidden sugars in the sauce (especially if catering to international tastes). Onions and preserved lemons contribute some natural carbs. Verify no thickening agents are used.
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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