Hünkar Beğendi (Kremalı Közlenmiş Patlıcan Püresi Üzerinde Kuzu Etli Güveç)
Lamb Stew over Smoked Eggplant Purée
Yes, with a tweak: politely inquire if the eggplant purée ('beğendi') uses minimal or no flour as a thickener. About 14g net carbs per serving, on the higher side for Turkish food, so watch the portion.
What it is
A regal dish, 'Sultan's Delight' features tender chunks of lamb (or sometimes beef) stewed in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. This savory stew is served atop a creamy, intensely smoky purée made from roasted eggplant, often enriched with butter and a touch of cheese. A small amount of flour is traditionally used in the beğendi, but can often be omitted or minimized.
Key ingredients
Lamb, eggplant, butter, milk/cream, cheese (optional, often Kashar), tomato paste, onion, garlic, olive oil, bell pepper, salt, pepper.
How to make it keto
Politely inquire if the eggplant purée ('beğendi') uses minimal or no flour as a thickener. Explicitly request no side rice or bread.
Watch out for
The eggplant purée often contains a small amount of flour (roux) for thickening. Tomato paste can sometimes have hidden sugars, and milk in the purée contributes lactose. Err on the side of higher carbs for restaurant versions.
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 Turkish menuAll 773 Turkish dishes ›
