Keto Cornmeal Substitutes: Smart Alternatives For Low-Carb Diets

Cornmeal is not keto-friendly, as it is made from corn, which is high in carbohydrates. However, there are several alternatives to cornmeal that can be used to make keto-friendly cornbread. These include almond flour, almond meal, and coconut flour. To replicate the taste of corn, some recipes use sweet corn extract, while others include actual cornmeal while remaining low-carb.

Almond flour is a good substitute for cornmeal on keto

Almond flour is a great substitute for cornmeal when you're on a keto diet. It has a similar texture to cornmeal and a slightly nutty flavour, making it a delicious alternative without changing up too many ingredients.

Almond flour is extremely low in carbs, containing only 3 grams of total carbs and 1 gram of net carbs per 2-tablespoon (14-gram) serving. In contrast, cornmeal has 120-125 grams of net carbs per cup, making it a no-go for keto.

When using almond flour to make keto cornbread, it's best to use blanched almond flour, not almond meal, as this will make the bread crumbly. You can also add a few drops of sweet corn extract to enhance the corn flavour without adding extra carbs.

Almond flour is probably the most widely used keto flour substitute, and it's very versatile. You can use it as a 1-to-1 substitute for wheat flour in baking, as breading for fried foods, or to make keto sweets, breads, and batters.

So, if you're craving cornbread while on a keto diet, almond flour is a fantastic option to help you stay on track while enjoying a tasty treat!

Almond meal is another option, especially for making grits

Almond meal is a great option for making grits on a keto diet. While traditional grits are made with ground-up corn kernels, almond meal can be used as a substitute to make a delicious, creamy, thick, and hearty keto-friendly breakfast.

To make almond meal grits, simply bring water to a boil and season with salt. Slowly stream in the almond meal, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Turn off the heat and let the grits sit on the stovetop with a lid on for about 15 minutes. You can also sieve the almond meal first for a creamier texture.

For a savoury breakfast option, top your almond meal grits with charred sausages and sauteed button mushrooms. You can also swap the sausages for roasted vegetables to make a vegetarian or vegan version.

Almond meal is also a great substitute for cornmeal in keto cornbread recipes. It has a similar texture and adds a slightly nutty flavour to the cornbread. Simply replace the cornmeal with almond flour or almond meal in your favourite cornbread recipe.

So, whether you're craving a comforting bowl of grits or some delicious cornbread, almond meal is a versatile and tasty option for your keto diet.

Coconut flour is a gluten-free, grain-free alternative

However, it is important to note that coconut flour does not have a 1:1 ratio with cornmeal or other types of flour. When substituting coconut flour for cornmeal, you will need to use a larger amount of coconut flour. Additionally, coconut flour absorbs liquid differently from cornmeal, so you will need to adjust the amount of liquid in your recipe. For example, if your recipe calls for eggs, you can start by using one less egg for every 1/4 cup of cornmeal that you replace with coconut flour.

Coconut flour can be used as a substitute for cornmeal in keto cornbread recipes, but it may not produce the same light and fluffy texture as other alternatives, such as almond flour. It is also important to note that coconut flour is not suitable for all recipes. For example, it may not be the best option for thickening sauces or gravies, as it absorbs liquid differently from cornmeal and other types of flour.

Overall, coconut flour is a versatile and nutritious alternative to cornmeal that is suitable for those on a keto, gluten-free, or grain-free diet. However, it is important to adjust the amounts of flour and liquid in your recipe when using coconut flour as a substitute.

Use a cornbread baking mix from a brand like Good Dee's

If you're looking for a convenient, ready-made option for keto-friendly cornbread, Good Dee's cornbread baking mix is a great choice. This mix allows you to enjoy the flavour and texture of traditional cornbread while adhering to a keto diet.

Good Dee's cornbread baking mix is carefully formulated with alternative ingredients to create a delicious, keto-friendly version of this classic side dish. The mix includes almond flour, soluble tapioca fibre, sodium bicarbonate, salt, and stevia extract. These ingredients work together to replicate the taste and texture of cornbread, without the high carb count typically associated with cornmeal.

With only 1 net carb per serving, you can feel confident that this product aligns with your keto diet goals. It's a convenient option for those who want to enjoy cornbread without the hassle of sourcing and measuring multiple alternative ingredients. Simply follow the instructions on the package to bake your cornbread, and you'll have a tasty treat that satisfies your cravings.

Good Dee's cornbread baking mix is a popular choice among those following a keto diet, as it provides a simple and tasty solution for cornbread lovers. By using this mix, you can easily prepare a keto-friendly version of your favourite cornbread recipes, such as cornbread muffins or cornbread stuffing. It's a versatile mix that can be used in a variety of cornbread dishes, making it a valuable addition to your keto pantry.

Try adding sweet corn extract for a more authentic flavour and colour

Sweet corn extract is a flavouring that can be added to keto cornbread recipes to give an authentic sweet corn taste. It is a natural way to add a sweet, corn-like flavour to a wide variety of products, including baked goods, snack foods, and beverages. It is a great way to add flavour to your baked goods without adding excess carbs.

Sweet corn extract is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be added to cakes, cookies, buttercreams, frostings, macarons, muffins, ice cream, sauces, and even savoury dishes such as vegetables, pastas, and stews. It is also perfect for those with corn allergies, as it does not contain any corn.

The extract has a long shelf life and a little goes a long way, so a single bottle will last a long time. It is available in glass bottles with a dropper top, which makes it easy to measure and prevents spills and waste.

Some customers have mentioned that the extract is a bit pricey, but it is worth it for the quality and flavour it adds to keto cornbread and other dishes. It is a great way to add an authentic sweet corn taste and colour to your keto dishes.

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