Зельц (Кето)
Head Cheese (Keto)
Yes, with a tweak: verify that no fillers like breadcrumbs, flour, or other carbohydrate binders are used in the preparation. About 2g net carbs per serving, lower than 8 in 10 Russian dishes.
What it is
A traditional Russian/Eastern European cold cut, Zelts is made from various cuts of pork (often from the head) or beef, slow-cooked until tender, seasoned robustly with garlic and spices, then pressed into a solid loaf with its natural gelatin. Served sliced as an appetizer.
Key ingredients
Pork (head meat, tongue, trotters) or beef, gelatin (natural from bones, or added), garlic, bay leaves, black peppercorns, salt.
How to make it keto
Verify that no fillers like breadcrumbs, flour, or other carbohydrate binders are used in the preparation. Request it served without bread or crackers.
Say this to the waiter (Russian)
Зельц приготовлен без панировки, муки и других углеводных связующих? Подайте без хлеба и крекеров.
Is the Зельц made without breadcrumbs, flour, or other carb binders? Please serve without bread or crackers.
Watch out for
Hidden fillers or binders can be present in commercially prepared or less authentic restaurant versions. Ensure no high-carb accompaniments are served.
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 Russian menuAll 298 Russian dishes ›
