
Sure! Here’s a revised version of the Southern Corn Delight recipe optimized for a keto, low-carb diet. Note that corn is generally not considered keto-friendly due to its higher carb content, so in this version, I’ll use a low-carb substitute to keep it within keto guidelines.
Keto Southern Corn Delight
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Introduction
This Keto Southern Corn Delight reimagines a beloved classic with a low-carb twist. By substituting traditional corn with cauliflower, this dish remains creamy and flavorful while fitting perfectly into a keto diet. Packed with fresh peppers, pickled jalapeños, and melted cheese, it offers a satisfying, low-carb alternative that retains the rich flavors of the original.
Ingredients:
- 3.5 cups cauliflower florets (steamed and chopped finely to mimic the texture of corn)
- ½ large red bell pepper, diced
- 2 fresh jalapeño peppers, diced (seeds/veins removed)
- 3-4 tablespoons diced pickled jalapeño peppers (plus extra to taste)
- 2.5 tablespoons butter
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (regular, not smoked)
- 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Extras:
- Hot sauce
- Extra cheese for topping
- Additional jalapeños for an extra kick!
- Spicy green salsa (see note below)
- Cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- If using frozen cauliflower, thaw it beforehand. Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, then chop them finely to resemble corn kernels.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Dice the bell pepper and fresh jalapeño peppers. If you prefer softer peppers, sauté them in a little oil until tender.
- Make the Base:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and cream cheese over medium heat, stirring frequently until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the chopped cauliflower, bell pepper, fresh and pickled jalapeños to the saucepan. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in ½ to ¾ cup of the cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined with the mixture.
- Bake:
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the dish is hot and bubbly.
Notes:
- Adjusting Spice Level: This dish is mild as written. For extra spice, consider adding 2-3 tablespoons of spicy green salsa and extra jalapeños before baking.
- Making Ahead: This dish can be prepared the night before. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning and bake when ready.
- Cauliflower Texture: Ensure the cauliflower is finely chopped to mimic the texture of corn kernels.
Nutrition Information (per ½ cup serving, assuming 8 servings):
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 260mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Net Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 8g
(per ½ cup serving, using updated carbs system):
- Freestyle/carbs: 5 carbs
- carbsPlus: 4 carbs
Conclusion
This Keto Southern Corn Delight is a creamy, low-carb version of a classic comfort dish. By substituting cauliflower for corn, it fits seamlessly into a keto diet while still delivering on flavor and satisfaction. Perfect for any meal or as a make-ahead side dish, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your low-carb repertoire!