When you first hear about the ketogenic (or 'keto') diet, it might sound like one of those trendy diets you'll try for a week, and then forget about when you spot a glazed donut. Hey, it happens to the best of us. From a bird's eye view, the keto diet wraps itself around the idea of low-carb and high-fat foods. You see, it's all about getting your body in a state of ketosis. “What the heck is ketosis?”, you might ask. Your body defaults to burning fat for energy because it lacks enough carbohydrates.
The Perfect Pot: RJ Legend 1.9 Quart Dutch Oven Pot
No great chowder was ever made in a shabby pot. The magic happens in the RJ Legend 1.9 Quart Dutch Oven Pot. Picture this: it's compact size, sleek ceramic exterior, and the way it holds heat – it’s perfect for our keto-friendly seafood chowder. It’s got enough room for all our fishy friends but not so big that we're making chowder for the whole neighborhood (unless that's your plan).
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mixed seafood (such as shrimp, scallops, and white fish), fresh or thawed if frozen.
- 1 cup cauliflower florets (chopped into small pieces as a low-carb potato substitute).
- 1/2 cup celery, diced.
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (optional, as onions are higher in carbs).
- 2 cups seafood or chicken broth (low-carb, no added sugar).
- 1 cup heavy cream (for thickening and richness). (you can use other alternatives for heavy cream such as coconut cream)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 minced garlic cloves.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme.
- 1 bay leaf.
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil for sautéing. (can use other alternatives for low-calorie oils such as avocado oil or coconut oil)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish).
- A squeeze of lemon juice (for added freshness).
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 Calories
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams net carbs per serving.
- Proteins: Roughly 30 grams
- Fats: 25 grams
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In the RJ Legend Dutch oven over medium heat, melt butter or heat olive oil, then sauté celery and optional onions until they start to soften, followed by a quick sauté of garlic for aroma.
- Add Broth and Cauliflower: Stir in seafood or chicken broth, add chopped cauliflower, season with salt, pepper, and thyme, and simmer until the cauliflower becomes tender.
- Include Seafood: Add the seafood mix, cooking just until it's done to ensure tenderness.
- Chicken with Cream: Lower the heat, and gently stir in heavy cream to thicken the chowder, avoiding boiling to prevent curdling.
- Finalize and Serve: Adjust seasoning, remove the bay leaf, and serve the chowder hot, optionally garnished with parsley and lemon juice.
Image by Freepik