While it might appear challenging to dine at Mexican restaurants when following a keto diet, primarily because of the presence of high-carb foods such as tortillas, rice, and beans, Mexican cuisine is, in fact, one of the most vibrant, nourishing, and keto-compatible culinary options available. This rings particularly true when you choose to prepare specific dishes in the comfort of your own kitchen. Below, discover a collection of 15 delectable keto-friendly Mexican recipes, along with valuable cooking advice, ordering tips, and a selection of straightforward recipes.

Exploring Keto-Friendly Mexican Dishes

1. Fajitas

Fajitas are a well-loved dish known for their sizzling presentation, typically incorporating bell peppers and onions along with a protein source, such as chicken, beef, or shrimp. Although they are traditionally served with tortillas, you can easily omit these to enjoy just the fajita filling and maintain a low-carb profile. However, since the carbohydrates from onions can add up quickly, it is advisable to either prepare a smaller portion or share your meal to keep your carb intake in check.

2. Carne Asada

Carne asada features marinated and grilled steak, which is inherently carb-free. While the marinade might introduce a minimal amount of carbohydrates, the dish remains a popular choice at numerous Mexican eateries. Additionally, raw carne asada can often be found at various Mexican markets, allowing you to grill it at home.

3. Ceviche

Originating from Peru, ceviche is commonly featured on Mexican restaurant menus. This refreshing cold dish consists of raw or pre-cooked seafood, typically fish or shrimp, which is marinated in citrus juice and combined with vegetables and herbs like tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro. All these components are low in carbohydrates. If you decide to whip it up at home, consider halving the amount of tomatoes and onions to further reduce the carb count.

4. Guacamole

Guacamole is a delicious dip prepared from mashed avocados, which are naturally rich in healthy fats and fiber while being low in net carbs (total carbs minus fiber). This dip may also include small quantities of lime juice, onions, jalapeños, tomatoes, or cilantro. While it’s generally served with chips, which you should skip, guacamole itself is an excellent choice for those following a keto diet.

5. Carnitas

Carnitas, a delightful dish of shredded slow-cooked pork, is typically made from fatty cuts like pork shoulder, allowing the fat to melt and enhance the flavor of the meat during cooking. Since the meat is carb-free, it makes for a fantastic keto-friendly option, whether enjoyed at a Mexican restaurant or prepared at home.

6. Camarones a la Diabla

This fiery shrimp dish is a staple in many Mexican restaurants and is prepared with a sauce crafted from various kinds of chiles and potentially tomatoes. While it is low in carbohydrates, if served with rice and beans, you might prefer opting for a salad or a side of guacamole—both of which are keto-friendly and can help balance the dish's heat.

7. Al Pastor Pork

Tacos al pastor feature thinly sliced, marinated pork shoulder. You can easily skip the tortillas and enjoy the flavorful pork on its own or alongside a fresh salad for a satisfying keto meal.

8. Chorizo

Chorizo, a flavorful Mexican sausage made from either beef or pork, is available in fresh (raw and ground) or dried (cured and ready to eat) forms. All varieties of chorizo are low in carbohydrates, high in fat, and packed with flavor, making them a delicious addition to any keto meal.

9. Queso

The term “queso,” which translates to “cheese” in Spanish, often refers to cheese dip in North America. Many of these dips are quite low in carbs; however, some may include carbohydrates from milk or starch-based thickeners. Always check the ingredients, ask for details, or consider creating your own low-carb version at home. One of my preferred keto-friendly ways to enjoy queso is with pork rinds or homemade tortilla chips made from low-carb tortillas.

10. Salsa

Salsa is a vibrant dip that is typically made from tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro, or various combinations of these ingredients. Although it contains small amounts of carbohydrates from tomatoes and onions, consuming modest portions—such as 1-2 tablespoons (16-32 grams)—can enhance your meal without jeopardizing your ketogenic lifestyle.

11. Birria

Birria consists of goat meat seasoned with an array of herbs, spices, and chiles. Some variations may also use beef. It can be enjoyed in birria tacos or as a traditional Mexican soup, also named birria, which features broth and additional salsa, onions, or cilantro. Both the soup and the meat are excellent keto-friendly options.

12. Tacos with Corn Tortillas

If you can accommodate a flexible carb intake, traditional tacos made with corn tortillas might be worth considering. These tortillas are lower in carbs compared to their flour counterparts, containing approximately 7 grams of net carbs per small, 18-gram tortilla. With careful planning, it's possible to enjoy a few regular tacos while still adhering to your daily carb limit.

13. Taco Salad

A taco salad typically includes lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and a protein such as seasoned ground beef or chicken, along with various other ingredients. Some variations may be served in fried taco shells or atop tortilla chips, often accompanied by refried beans. To keep it keto-friendly, skip the shell and the refried beans.

14. Huevos a la Mexicana

This delightful breakfast dish features scrambled eggs cooked with onions, diced tomatoes, and sautéed peppers like jalapeño. Since it does not include tortillas or tortilla chips, it is significantly lower in carbohydrates compared to other Mexican breakfast options like huevos rancheros or chilaquiles.

15. Pico de Gallo

Pico de gallo is a fresh condiment made with diced tomatoes, chopped onions, and cilantro. When consumed in small amounts, it is low in carbohydrates and provides a zesty flavor to richer or higher-fat dishes. It's also simple to prepare at home.

Food Swaps and Modification Tips

At Home

Transform your dining experience by adopting these effective strategies for savoring **_keto-friendly Mexican cuisine_** in the comfort of your home:

  • Create your own seasoning blends. Many pre-packaged taco or fajita seasoning mixes contain unnecessary carbohydrates that can be easily avoided by crafting your own blends. Consider mixing together chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper for a flavorful kick.
  • Purchase low carb tortillas. You can relish burritos and tacos as long as you opt for low carb tortillas, allowing you to stick to your keto regimen.
  • Use cauliflower rice and black soybeans. Instead of traditional high-carb staples like rice and black beans, substitute them with cauliflower rice and black soybeans (???? ???? ?????) to significantly reduce your carb intake. Black soybeans are particularly rich in fiber, which effectively lowers their net carb content.

At a Mexican Restaurant

Dining out at a Mexican restaurant in countries like India, Australia, Canada, or the United States? Keep these valuable tips in mind:

  • Ask that no chips be brought to the table. Tortilla chips are notoriously high in carbs, so it's wise to avoid them altogether.
  • Order fajitas without tortillas. Fajitas, along with several other traditional Mexican dishes, can serve as an excellent keto meal when you skip the tortillas altogether.
  • Choose a simple meat entrée. Opting for a high-fat, high-protein meat dish as your main course means you may not need to make many special requests to ensure your meal remains keto-friendly.
  • Replace rice and refried beans with salad and guacamole. Side dishes such as rice and refried beans are often packed with carbs, so it's advisable to request a swap for non-starchy vegetables instead.

Keto Mexican Recipes

Keto Guacamole

  • Flesh of 1 avocado
  • 2 teaspoons (10 mL) lime juice
  • Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
  1. Begin by mashing the avocado until it achieves your preferred creaminess.
  2. Mix in the lime juice along with the seasonings. For best flavor and color, enjoy immediately to prevent browning.

Pico de Gallo

  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped
  • Several cilantro leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon (5 mL) lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  1. Combine the diced tomato, chopped onion, cilantro, lime juice, and seasonings in a bowl.
  2. This fresh salsa can be enjoyed right away or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Carnitas

  • 1/2 tablespoon (8 grams) chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 grams) ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 680–900 grams (1.5–2-pound) pork shoulder, cut into 4–5 large sections
  • 1 onion, cut into wedges
  • Water
  • 2 bay leaves
  1. In a bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Rub this spice blend generously over the pork shoulder.
  3. Place the seasoned pork shoulder and onion wedges in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven. Fill with water until it is 2.5 cm below the rim, and add the bay leaves.
  4. Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 4 hours, turning the pork halfway through the cooking time.
  5. Once done, the pork should be tender and easily shreddable. Serve alongside your favorite keto-friendly Mexican sides and condiments.

Carne Asada Fajitas

  • 1 tablespoon (15 mL) cooking oil
  • 2 bell peppers, seeded and thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 450 grams (1 pound) raw, pre-marinated carne asada
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  1. Heat the cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook until the vegetables have softened or are slightly charred at the edges.
  2. Remove the bell peppers and onion from the skillet, then add the carne asada. Fry until it is fully cooked with crispy edges.
  3. Return the vegetables to the skillet and toss with the meat.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, keeping in mind that the carne asada is likely already seasoned.
  5. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the prepared fajitas before serving with low-carb toppings and sides.

The Final Takeaway

Mexican cuisine is an abundant source of vibrant flavors, featuring succulent meats, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs and spices that align perfectly with the needs of those following a keto diet. However, when dining at a Mexican restaurant in countries like the United States, Australia, or Canada, it is wise to steer clear of high-carb components such as tortillas, rice, and beans, which can derail your dietary goals. Luckily, at home, there's the opportunity to create numerous keto-friendly adaptations of traditional Mexican dishes, such as ceviche, fajitas, carne asada, and carnitas.