Easy sugar free pulled pork

 Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s become one of my favorites, a delicious spicy and sugar free pulled pork.  It’s perfect for anyone following a keto, paleo or Banting diet. This is one of my favorite ways to eat pork, it’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and budget-friendly. It’s  an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, I’ll provide both stovetop and slow cooker instructions to fit your schedule and cooking preferences.

Pulled pork is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Whether you’re enjoying it in lettuce wraps, on top of a salad, or straight from the pot, this recipe ensures you get a flavorful, tender pork dish without the extra sugar or carbs. It’s perfect for those looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle while still indulging in delicious, hearty meals.

 

Sugar free pulled pork

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 3 hours

Total Time: 1:20 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. or 900g pork shoulder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 3 teaspoons smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds or 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/3 cup organic sugar-free chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preparation

   • Prep the Pork Shoulder: Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the spice rub adhere better and the meat to brown nicely.
   • Mix the Spice Rub: In a small mixing bowl, combine the onion powder, garlic powder, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin seeds or ground coriander, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
   • Rub the Pork: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This will infuse the meat with robust flavors.

   Stovetop Cooking Method

   • Brown the Pork: Heat a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil if necessary to prevent sticking. Once hot, add the pork shoulder and brown on all sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
   • Add the Broth: Once the pork is browned, add the chicken broth to the pot. The liquid should come about halfway up the side of the pork. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
   • Simmer the Pork: Reduce the heat to low and let the pork simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Check occasionally to ensure the liquid hasn’t evaporated completely, adding a bit more broth if needed. The pork is done when it’s fork-tender and shreds easily.

   Slow Cooker Method

   • Prep as Above: Follow the same steps to prep the pork and spice rub as above.
   • Slow Cooker Cooking: Place the rubbed pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth around the pork. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds.

   Shredding the Pork

   • Shred the Pork: Remove the cooked pork shoulder from the pot or slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
   • Mix with Juices: Return the shredded pork to the pot or slow cooker and mix it with the cooking juices. This keeps the pork moist and flavorful.

   Recipe notes and tips

   • Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of cayenne   pepper. Add more if you prefer more spicy.

     You can also substitute the coriander or cumin with fennel
   • Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
   • Make-Ahead Meal: This pulled pork is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week in various dishes.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 5g

Notes

You can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned if needed. This recipe is freezer-friendly.

How I like to serve  pulled pork?

1. Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the pulled pork into iceberg or butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb wrap. Top with your favorite low-carb toppings like avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese.
2. Salads: Add the pulled pork to a hearty salad.  This is one of my favorite ways to serve this sugar free pulled pork.
3. Bowls: Create a low-carb bowl with sugar free pulled pork, cauliflower rice, sautéed vegetables, and a dollop of guacamole.
4. Straight Up: I also enjoy the pulled pork on its own, straight from the pot, for a simple and satisfying meal.

This sugar free pulled pork recipe is a delicious and versatile addition to any meal plan.  You will love it even more if you are following a keto or banting or paleo diet because its sugar free.  I love making this on Sundays as part of my weekly low carb meal prep and save for mid week lunches. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. I hope you enjoy making and eating this pulled pork as much as I do! I’d love to hear how your pulled pork turned out! Please leave a comment below with your favorite ways to enjoy pulled pork or any variations you tried.

Easy sugar free pulled pork

Thursday, 3 July 2025

Broccoli Slaw

 I am excited to share a recipe for a delicious broccoli slaw that is perfect for any meal. This budget friendly salad is not only packed with nutrients but also makes a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional coleslaw. Broccoli slaw is a delightful twist on classic coleslaw, primarily made with shredded broccoli stems instead of cabbage. I always try my best to avoid food waste, and this is a great way to make use of the often-overlooked and sometimes discarded part of the broccoli. This results in a crunchy, flavorful slaw that’s perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a healthy side dish.

As someone who follows a low-carb diet, I can vouch for how perfectly this broccoli slaw fits into my meal plan. My meals are mainly whole foods and I avoid processed carbohydrates, focusing instead on healthy fats and proteins. This slaw, with its fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, is both satisfying and nutritious, without the carb overload. It is perfect whether you are on keto or banting.  Just make sure you use a mayonnaise that is low-carb friendly or a homemade one.

Serving suggestions

1. As a Side Dish: Serve this slaw alongside grilled meats like chicken, beef, or fish. Its fresh crunch pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of grilled food.
2. On Sandwiches and Wraps: Use this slaw as a crunchy topping for your favorite sandwiches or wraps. It adds a refreshing bite and extra nutrients.
3. With BBQ: This slaw is a fantastic addition to any barbecue spread. It complements the smoky flavors of barbecue meats and adds a light, tangy contrast.
4. As a Main Dish: For a light lunch or dinner, turn this slaw into a main dish by adding some protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak.
5. Potluck and Picnic Favorite: This broccoli slaw travels well, making it an excellent choice for potlucks and picnics. Just keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.

Tips

• Customization: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste. You can add other low-carb vegetables like bell peppers for extra crunch.
• Storage: Store the broccoli slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Dressing Variations: If you prefer a different flavor, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing or add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tang.

This super quick, budget friendly low carb salad recipe is also perfect for those nights when you want a light and tasty side dish without pulling out another pot or pan. Just toss the ingredients into a large bowl and give it a quick stir to combine  and viola! You have a satisfying side dish or a crunchy filling for sandwiches or lettuce wraps.

I’d love to hear how your broccoli slaw turned out! Please leave a comment below with your variations or tips. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family on social media. And if you haven’t already, subscribe for more healthy recipes.

 

Broccoli Slaw

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 12 oz. bag broccoli slaw/shredded broccoli stems
• ¼ c. fresh parsley leaves chopped
• 2 T. Mayonnaise
• 1 T. apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 c. green onions
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Add broccoli slaw, parsley, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and green onion to a large glass bowl and stir to combine. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste.
2. Serve immediately or place in the refrigerator for a couple hours to chill, if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 90
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g

Notes

Nutritional information/serving:

• Calories: 90
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 7g

To make the broccoli slaw from scratch, combine the following ingredients:

• Broccoli Stems 
• Red Cabbage 
• Carrots 
• Green Onions 
• Fresh Parsley 

Why I love this broccoli slaw?

• Quick to Assemble: One of the best things about this recipe is how quick it is to put together. With pre-packaged broccoli slaw, it takes just minutes to chop the parsley and green onions and mix everything up. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute side dishes.
• Budget-Friendly: Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive. This recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Buying a bag of pre-made broccoli slaw saves time and is often cheaper than buying whole heads of broccoli and carrots separately.
• Nutrient-Packed: Broccoli is a superfood, rich in  fiber, and antioxidants. Parsley adds a fresh flavor and additional nutrients like vitamin A. The dressing, made with mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar, is both creamy and tangy, enhancing the overall flavor without adding many carbs.
• Versatile: This slaw is incredibly versatile. It can be a side dish, a topping for sandwiches and burgers, or even a main dish if you add some protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. It’s a great way to add more vegetables to your diet in a tasty way.  You can also make slaw from scratch with fresh ingredients (details in recipe card).

Broccoli Slaw

Delicious low carb spinach and egg wrap

 Are you on a low carb diet and searching for a nutritious, easy-to-make meal? This keto spinach and egg wrap is a perfect addition to your low carb diet. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, it’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner. My biggest struggle in eating low carb is finding bread replacements that are affordable and diet friendly. Whether you are on keto, banting or paleo, this  spinach wrap will be a perfect addition to your low carb recipes. The spinach and egg wrap is an easy to make and affordable replacement for wheat wraps and sandwiches. Let’s dive into the benefits of this low carb delight and how you can make it at home.

 

Spinach Wrap

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves packed
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil for cooking

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the spinach leaves and eggs. Blend until smooth and well combined.
2. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with olive oil or coconut oil.
4. Pour about 1/2 cup of the spinach and egg mixture into the skillet, swirling it around to form a thin, even layer.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges start to lift and the bottom is set. Flip carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. Repeat with the remaining batter to make 2 wraps.
6. Use the spinach and egg wraps as you would any other wrap. Fill them with your favorite keto-friendly fillings such as avocado, chicken, cheese, and low-carb vegetables. I filled mine with avocado, tomato, and sweet peppers.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 5g

Notes

• Calories: 267
• Protein: 12.86g
• Fat: 24.12g
• Net Carbohydrates: 1.4g
• Ensure the skillet is well-heated and lightly greased to prevent sticking.

• These wraps are delicate, so flip them carefully to avoid tearing.
• You can store the wraps in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before using.  Freeze them for up 2 months, thaw and reheat before using.
• You can replace the coconut oil or olive oil with cooking spray that is suitable for your diet.

This simple wrap isn’t just low in carbs, it’s also rich in essential nutrients

• Spinach: A powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, spinach is loaded with iron, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and K. It’s also high in antioxidants and provides a good amount of dietary fiber.
• Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein, eggs are a great source of essential amino acids. They also contain important nutrients like choline, which supports brain health, and lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health.
• Healthy Fats: Using olive oil or coconut oil adds healthy fats to the wrap, promoting satiety and providing essential fatty acids.

Here are some variations to try with this low-carb spinach wrap

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize your wrap:

• Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon for an extra protein boost.
• Incorporate Vegetables: Add low-carb veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese inside the wrap for a delicious filling.

Incorporating this spinach and egg wrap into your low carb diet is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful meal without the extra carbs. It’s easy to make and highly versatile. Give it a try and enjoy a guilt free low carb breakfast or lunch. 

Delicious low carb spinach and egg wrap

Wednesday, 25 June 2025

Chicken cauliflower bake

This creamy low carb broccoli or cauliflower bake is a delightful addition to any meal. With its rich, cheesy flavor and creamy texture, it’s bound to be a household favorite. It’s easy to make and requires just a few ingredients.  If you are looking for a tasty, creamy side dish or meal that’s perfect for your low-carb, keto, or banting diet, this recipe will be perfect for you. What I like the most about this recipe is that it’s a balanced meal in one pot.

It is loaded with protein, the chicken breast, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese contribute to a high protein content, helping to keep you satiated and supporting muscle maintenance and growth. The healthy fats from the cream cheese and cheddar cheese make this dish rich and satisfying, perfect for those following a ketogenic diet where fats are a primary energy source. Broccoli and cauliflower are low-carb vegetables that are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They add bulk to the dish without adding many carbs, making it ideal for low-carb diets. The recipe is simple and affordable to make.   To make it even more affordable, I used homemade cream cheese.  Store bought will work just fine as well, you just need to soften it.

 

Chicken cauliflower bake

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Total Time: 45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 4 cups cauliflower florets you can use broccoli florets or both

• 2 chicken breasts cooked and shredded

• 1 cup cream cheese softened

• 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded (or any hard cheese of your choice)

• 2 cloves garlic minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
   Prepare Vegetables: Steam the broccoli or cauliflower florets until tender but still slightly firm (about 5-7 minutes). Drain and set aside.
   Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked (about 7-10 minutes per side). Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it.
   Make the Cream Sauce:
   In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the cream cheese over medium heat.
   Add the minced garlic, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   Combine and Transfer:
   Place the steamed cauliflower and shredded chicken in the greased baking dish.
   Pour the cream sauce over the vegetables and chicken, ensuring they are evenly coated.
   Add the Cheese:
   Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice of hard cheese) evenly over the top.
   Bake:
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with a golden-brown color.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g

Notes

This recipe is freezer-friendly.

 

Serving Suggestions:

The creamy broccoli or cauliflower bake is a versatile dish that can be served as a complete meal or paired with other sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your low-carb creamy vege bake:

• Serve with sweet potato or sweet potato fries or cubed butternut squash.

• Pair it with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for added nutrients.

When I want to indulge in comfort foot while staying on track with my dietary goals this creamy, cheesy and broccoli or cauliflower bake is a fantastic way to do so . Whether you’re following a keto, Banting, or just carb conscious , this dish fits right in. It’s versatile enough to be served as a complete meal or paired with various sides, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.  In this recipe I am using cream cheese instead of cheese sauce made with flour.  This makes the recipe suitable for my low carb diet.

Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish! Feel free to share your experiences or any tweaks you made to the recipe in the comments below. We love hearing from our readers!

Chicken cauliflower bake

Tuesday, 20 May 2025

Home made cream cheese

This easy homemade cream cheese recipe is a delightful and easy addition to my low carb life. There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own food from scratch. For me, knowing what ingredients go into my meals is very important and is the best reward of homemade food. With just a liter of milk and a few tablespoons of vinegar, you can create a creamy, delicious cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. Making my own cream cheese at home ensures that I know exactly what goes into it. Store-bought versions often contain additives, preservatives, and stabilizers that you might want to avoid. By making it myself, I can control the ingredients and ensure that my food is fresh, natural, and free from unnecessary additives. This recipe can be customized to your taste. You can add various herbs, spices, or even sweeteners to create unique flavors tailored to your preferences. This customization makes it even more versatile and enjoyable to use in a wide range of dishes.

 

Home made cream cheese

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cook Time: 10 mins

Total Time: 15 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 liter of whole milk
• 3-4 tablespoons of white vinegar lemon juice can also be used
• Salt to taste optional

Instructions

1. Pour the 1 liter of whole milk into a large saucepan.
2. Heat the milk over medium heat until it reaches about 85-90°C (185-195°F), stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
3. Remove the milk from the heat and add 3 tablespoons of white vinegar, stirring gently. If the milk doesn’t curdle sufficiently, add another tablespoon of vinegar.
4. Allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for about 10-15 minutes, letting the curds separate from the whey.
5. Line a colander with a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel.
6. Pour the curdled milk into the colander to strain out the whey. Let it drain for 30-60 minutes, depending on your desired consistency.
7. Transfer the drained curds to a food processor or blender.
8. Add a pinch of salt if desired, and blend until smooth and creamy. You can add back a tablespoon or two of whey if needed to achieve the right consistency.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 50
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 2
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 1g

Notes

1. Place the cream cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for about a week.

How I use homemade cream cheese in low carb cooking

Those following a low carb diet like keto or banting will appreciate having a simple recipe like this in their kitchens.  it is a fantastic substitute for carb-heavy ingredients.  Here are some ideas:

• Creamy Sauces: Use cream cheese to make creamy sauces for vegetables, chicken, or fish. It’s a great alternative to flour-thickened sauces and adds rich flavor without the carbs.

• Desserts: Create low-carb desserts like cheesecake, mousse, or fat bombs using cream cheese as the base. It’s a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while sticking to your diet.

• Stuffed Vegetables: Fill bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini with a cream cheese-based filling. It’s a tasty and low-carb way to enjoy your favorite stuffed vegetables.
  

Homemade cream cheese is a versatile, delicious, and healthful addition to any kitchen, especially for those following low-carb diets like Banting and keto. Its rich, creamy texture and minimal carbohydrate content make it an excellent choice for adding flavor and creaminess to your meals without compromising your dietary goals.
Whether you’re using it to enhance your breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, homemade cream cheese is sure to become a staple in your home. So, give it a try and enjoy the many benefits of this delightful homemade cheese. Share your favorite ways to use homemade cream cheese in the comments below.

Home made cream cheese

Thursday, 15 May 2025