Diving into a keto lifestyle is an adventure, especially when it comes to navigating the world of condiments. Ketchup, a beloved classic, often comes packed with sugars, making it a tricky fit for those counting carbs.

But imagine if you could indulge in the rich, tangy goodness of ketchup without any of the sugar? That’s exactly what this homemade sugar-free ketchup recipe offers.

Made with wholesome ingredients and zero added sugars, this ketchup isn’t just friendly to your keto diet; it’s a burst of fresh flavor that store-bought varieties can’t hold a candle to.

Sugar-Free Keto Ketchup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 oz tomato paste
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup sugar-free sweetener (Monkfruit sweetener or other you prefer)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions:

1. Prep Your Station: Gather all your ingredients and measure them out. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, add the tomato paste, white vinegar, sugar-free sweetener, water, kosher salt, dry mustard powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Whisk It Up: Using a whisk, stir the ingredients together until they’re fully combined. The goal is to have a smooth mixture without any lumps.
4. Simmer Time: Place the saucepan over low-medium heat. Wait for the mixture to reach a gentle simmer. This means you’ll see small bubbles forming and rising to the surface, but it’s not at a full boil.
5. Thicken the Ketchup: Allow the mixture to cook for about 10 minutes. During this time, the ketchup will start to thicken. Stir occasionally to ensure the ketchup doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
6. Check the Consistency: After 10 minutes, check the consistency of your ketchup. It should be thick but still pourable. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with a little more water.
7. Strain if Needed: If you notice any lumps or want a smoother texture, pour the ketchup through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl. Use a spoon to press the mixture through.
8. Cool Down: Let the ketchup cool to room temperature. This will also allow the flavors to meld together nicely.
9. Storage: Transfer the cooled ketchup to a clean jar or an airtight container. Seal it and place it in the refrigerator.

Got a thing for tangy, sugar-free ketchup that’s keto-friendly? Share the saucy love on your Pinterest board and be the condiment hero your friends didn’t know they needed! 🍅

Sugar-Free Keto Ketchup Recipe Variations

Heat Without the Carbs:

Craving some spice? Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of a carb-free hot sauce. This will give your ketchup a fiery kick without adding any extra carbs.

Smoky BBQ Flavor:

For a BBQ-style ketchup, mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika and a dash of keto-friendly liquid smoke. This will give you that beloved BBQ taste while keeping it low-carb.

Fresh Herb Delight:

Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs. Stir in a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh basil, parsley, or cilantro after the ketchup has cooled. If using dried herbs, a teaspoon should suffice.

Tangy Twist:

Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for an extra tangy flavor. It’s a simple switch that can make a big difference in taste.

Rich Balsamic:

For a deeper flavor, replace half of the white vinegar with balsamic vinegar. Just ensure it’s a sugar-free variety to keep it keto-friendly.

Alternative Smoky Elements:

If smoked paprika isn’t available, a pinch of ground chipotle or a sprinkle of smoked sea salt can provide a similar smokiness.

Sweetener Swap:

Feel free to use your preferred keto-friendly sweetener. Whether it’s Monkfruit, stevia, xylitol, or a blend, choose what best suits your taste while keeping it low-carb.

These variations are designed to keep your ketchup keto-compliant while allowing you to play with flavors and find your favorite version. Enjoy crafting a condiment that’s uniquely yours!

Summer is synonymous with barbecues, and what better way to elevate your grilling game than with Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs? After marinating chicken in a tropical blend and skewering it with vibrant vegetables and pineapple, you’ll grill them to perfection, ensuring a delightful fusion of flavors.

This dish, brought together by a marinade that sings of tropical flavors, is both a feast for the eyes and a celebration of summer. Let’s dive into the ingredients, the history behind this dish, and of course, the step-by-step guide to making these kabobs.

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds of chicken breast, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into small chunks
• 1 orange bell pepper, segmented into bite-sized portions
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into small pieces
• 1 crimson onion, segmented into bite-sized bits
• 1 cup of pineapple, cut into small dices
• 1 yellow bell pepper, segmented into bite-sized portions (our new addition)

For the Sauce:

• ⅓ cup of tomato-based condiment
• ⅓ cup of salty soy sauce
• ⅓ cup of brown sugar
• ¼ cup of juice from pineapple
• 2 teaspoons of aromatic sesame extract
• 1 teaspoon of shredded ginger root
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon of spicy chili sauce

Instructions

1. Crafting the Marinade:

• In a spacious mixing bowl, blend together all the marinade ingredients.
• Once well-mixed, set aside about ½ cup of this marinade for the vegetables to be used later.

2. Marinating the Chicken:

• Immerse the chopped chicken breast pieces in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
• Allow the chicken to soak in these flavors, letting it sit for a minimum of 30 minutes to a maximum of 4 hours for best results.

3. Preparing the Grill:

• Ensure your grill is clean and free from any previous residues.
• Ignite your grill and adjust the temperature to medium-high, aiming for around 400°F.

4. Prepping the Vegetables:

• In a different mixing bowl, toss together the segmented bell peppers, diced pineapple, and crimson onion bits.
• Drizzle the 3 tablespoons of the marinade you set aside earlier over the vegetables, ensuring they’re lightly coated.

5. Skewering Time:

• Take your skewers (if using wooden ones, see the next step first) and start threading the marinated chicken pieces alternated with the marinated vegetables. Ensure they’re not too tightly packed to allow even cooking.

6. Important Note for Wooden Skewers:

• If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s crucial to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to skewering. This prevents them from catching fire or charring excessively during the grilling process.

7. Grilling the Skewers:

• Place the loaded skewers onto the preheated grill.
• Allow them to cook for approximately 12-16 minutes. It’s essential to keep an eye on them and turn occasionally for even grilling.
• As they grill, periodically brush them with the remaining marinade to keep them moist and flavorful.
• Ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked before removing from the grill. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Feeling the tropical vibes from these Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs? Slide that pic below onto your Pinterest. Your board might just become the next kabob hotspot!

Recipe Variations for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs:

1. Tropical Seafood Skewers: Replace the chicken with shrimp or chunks of firm fish like tuna or swordfish. Adjust the grilling time as seafood cooks faster than chicken.

2. Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and add firm tofu cubes or tempeh. You can also include more varieties of vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.

3. Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of finely chopped jalapeños to the marinade.

4. Sweet and Savory: Add chunks of mango or peach to the skewers for a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.

5. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs into the chicken marinade. Chopped cilantro, basil, or parsley can add a fresh and aromatic twist to the kabobs.

6. Citrus Zest: Add the zest of a lemon, lime, or orange to the marinade for a zesty flavor profile.

7. Teriyaki Twist: Replace the ketchup in the marinade with teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile. You can also add a tablespoon of honey for added sweetness.

8. BBQ Hawaiian Kabobs: Use barbecue sauce in place of ketchup for a smoky, tangy flavor.

Remember, the beauty of kabobs lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your unique version of this classic dish.

Greek cuisine is a tapestry of rich flavors and diverse textures. From the sharpness of feta cheese to the deep notes of olive oil, every dish is a sensory delight. Among the array of Greek delicacies, Chicken Souvlaki, akin to the renowned Greek Gyro, emerges as an evergreen favorite.

This iconic dish, characterized by its succulent chicken morsels soaked in a vibrant lemon-garlic marinade, epitomizes the spirit of Greek summertime barbecues. Join us as we journey through the nuances of Chicken Souvlaki, from its storied past to its preparation and presentation. And as a special treat, at the end of this article, we’ve included some delectable variations of this classic for you to explore!

A Glimpse into the World of Chicken Souvlaki

Souvlaki, a term derived from the Greek word meaning “grilled meat on a skewer,” is a staple in Greek street food culture. Unlike its close relatives, the kabobs, which are often paired with vegetables on the skewer, Souvlaki focuses solely on the meat. This allows the flavors of the marinade to shine through, complemented by the smoky char from the grill. The dish is traditionally served with a side of fresh veggies, Greek dolmades or a Greek salad, but the pièce de résistance is the drizzle of tzatziki sauce, adding a creamy and refreshing dimension to the meal.

Chicken Souvlaki Ingredients:

• Chicken: Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best grilling experience.
• Marinade: A blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Tzatziki Sauce: While store-bought versions work, a homemade tzatziki sauce, whether traditional or vegan, elevates the dish.
• Paprika: A mild spice that adds depth and a hint of smokiness to the marinade.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
• ⅓ cup of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
• tzatziki sauce

Instructions

1. Preparation of Marinade:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well-blended.
   • The addition of paprika not only enhances the color but also imparts a subtle smokiness.
2. Marinating the Chicken:
   • Cut your chicken breasts into 1 ½-inch cubes, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking.
   • Place the chicken cubes in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the fridge. While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating overnight will intensify the flavors.
3. Grilling the Chicken:
   • Heat up your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat for optimal cooking.
   • Remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
   • Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, spacing them slightly apart to ensure all sides cook evenly.
   • Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. The chicken should have a charred exterior and a juicy interior.
   • Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Serving:
   • Lay the grilled Chicken Souvlaki on a serving platter.
   • Drizzle with tzatziki sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.
   • Garnish it with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for an added touch.

Falling for this Chicken Souvlaki magic? Light up your Pinterest board by pinning the image below and let others in on this Greek delight! 🍢Inspire a culinary journey!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Souvlaki:

• Marination: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. However, avoid marinating chicken for more than 24 hours as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken.
• Grilling: Ensure the grill is adequately preheated. A hot grill gives the chicken those desirable grill marks and seals in the juices.
• Serving: Chicken Souvlaki pairs beautifully with a side of Greek salad, pita bread, or even roasted vegetables.

Recipe Variations:

1. Pork Souvlaki:

• Description: For those who prefer pork over chicken, this variation offers a richer and more robust flavor profile.
• Instructions: Replace chicken with pork tenderloin, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes. Follow the same marinating and grilling process.

2. Spicy Souvlaki:

• Description: Add a kick to your Souvlaki with a touch of heat.
• Instructions: Incorporate a teaspoon of red chili flakes or a finely chopped fresh chili to the marinade. Grill as per the original recipe.

3. Herb-Infused Souvlaki:

• Description: Fresh herbs can elevate the aromatic profile of your Souvlaki.
• Instructions: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade. Grill as instructed.

4. Lemon-Herb Souvlaki:

• Description: A zesty variation that brings out the freshness of lemon combined with aromatic herbs.
• Instructions: Double the amount of lemon juice in the marinade and introduce lemon zest. Add fresh dill or mint for a refreshing twist.

5. Mediterranean Souvlaki:

• Description: A fusion of flavors that encapsulates the essence of the Mediterranean.
• Instructions: To the marinade, add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives. This will give the Souvlaki a tangy and briny flavor, reminiscent of the Mediterranean coast.