Khashkhash Kebab
Aleppine Spiced Meat Kebab in Tomato Sauce (Served without Carbs)
Yes, with a tweak: absolutely critical: Request *no bread, no rice, no bulgur, and no pita*. About 11g net carbs per serving, on the higher side for Syrian food, so watch the portion.
What it is
A specialty from Aleppo, consisting of grilled skewers of finely ground lamb or beef, mixed with onions, bell peppers, and spices, served in a rich, slightly spicy tomato and pepper sauce. Modified to be served as a main dish without any carb-heavy sides.
Key ingredients
Ground lamb/beef, onion, bell pepper, tomato, garlic, olive oil, red chili paste, various spices (paprika, cumin, black pepper, salt).
How to make it keto
Absolutely critical: Request *no bread, no rice, no bulgur, and no pita*. Confirm the tomato sauce is not sweetened with sugar or thickened with flour (restaurants might use these). Ask for a simple side of un-dressed greens or keto-friendly grilled vegetables (e.g., zucchini, eggplant) instead of carb-heavy sides.
Say this to the waiter (Arabic)
من فضلك، بدون خبز، أرز، برغل أو خبز بيتا. صلصة الطماطم بدون سكر أو طحين. مع سلطة خضراء بسيطة أو خضروات مشوية (كوسة/باذنجان).
No bread, rice, bulgur, or pita. Confirm unsweetened tomato sauce, no flour. Side of plain greens or grilled zucchini/eggplant, please.
Watch out for
Hidden sugars in the tomato sauce are a significant risk. Restaurants may add sugar for flavor balance or use flour/starch as a thickener. It is traditionally served with rice or bread, which must be omitted. Always clarify the ingredients of the sauce.
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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