Sour cream is a big hit everywhere! You find it topping off dishes or mixed right in all around the globe. It’s got this rich, creamy texture with a tangy kick that really takes your food to the next level. But, if you’re on a keto diet, you’re probably wondering, “Is sour cream keto friendly?” Let’s find out!
Welcome back! Today, we’ve got a hot topic that’s as cool and creamy as it is controversial for those riding the low-carb train: sour cream.
If you’ve ever been on a keto diet, you know that dairy products can be tricky. Some are high in carbs and sugar, while others are low in fat and protein.
So, where does sour cream fall on the spectrum? Is it a keto-friendly food, or should you steer clear of it?
In our ongoing quest to unpack the keto staples, we’re taking a closer look to see if sour cream is a friend, foe, or perhaps somewhere in between for your low-carb diet.
In this post, we’ll cover everything from what sour cream is made of to its potential health benefits and drawbacks. We’ll also dive into how it fits into a keto diet (plus recipes it would taste great in) so you can enjoy the tangy goodness without derailing your low-carb goals.
So, let’s get started!
Note: For more low-carb food recommendations, this keto food list is perfect for anyone starting the keto diet!
Is Sour Cream Keto?
The short answer is yes, sour cream is keto-friendly. However, like most foods on a low-carb diet, it depends on the brand and ingredients used.
Sour cream is traditionally made by fermenting regular cream with lactic acid bacteria. This process thickens and sours the cream, giving it its distinct tangy taste. However, some manufacturers may add extra ingredients, like sugars and thickeners, to improve the texture or flavor.
So, when choosing a sour cream for your keto lifestyle, it’s crucial to read the label and note any added sugars or carbs. Ideally, you’ll want to opt for full-fat sour cream made with just cream and the bacteria cultures.
Sour Cream Nutrition Facts
One tablespoon (15 grams) of sour cream contains approximately:
- 31 calories
- 3 grams of fat
- 0.5 grams of protein
- 0.6 grams of carbs
- <0.1 grams of fiber
- <0.1 grams of sugar
With such a low carb count, sour cream is a great option for those following a keto diet. It’s also high in fat, making it a convenient source of energy and helping you feel full longer.
Potential Health Benefits of Sour Cream
While sour cream may be an excellent addition to your low-carb meals, some potential health benefits come along with it. These include:
1. Rich in Essential Nutrients
Sour cream is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and vitamin A. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining bone health, regulating blood pressure, and strengthening the immune system.
2. Contains Healthy Bacteria
As mentioned earlier, sour cream is made with lactic acid bacteria that are beneficial for your gut health. These bacteria aid in digestion and help balance the good and bad bacteria in your gut, promoting overall digestive health.
3. May Help with Weight Loss
Since sour cream is high in fat, it may be beneficial for those trying to lose weight on a keto diet. Consuming more healthy fats can help keep you full and satisfied, reducing cravings for carb-heavy foods.
How To Use Sour Cream While On The Keto Diet
So, now that you know sour cream is keto-friendly and has potential health benefits, how can you incorporate it into your low-carb meals?
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- As a topping for tacos, burritos, or any other Mexican-inspired dish, use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of traditional flour tortillas.
- In dips like guacamole, onion dip, or ranch dressing. You can also use it as a base for creamy sauces and dressings to add some tanginess.
- In baked goods like low-carb biscuits, bread, or muffins. Sour cream adds moisture and flavor while keeping the carb count low.
- As a condiment for meats, veggies, or eggs. Mix sour cream with herbs and spices for a flavorful and creamy topping.
Some Delicious Sour Cream Keto-Friendly Recipes
Here are a couple of recipes that incorporate sour cream and fit perfectly into a keto diet!
1) Creamy Avocado Sauce
Savor the most delicious creamy avocado sauce, made with bright ingredients like cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeno. This avocado sauce recipe is the perfect pairing for chips, tacos, bowls, salads, and more!
2) Tzatziki Sauce
This creamy and tangy tzatziki with sour cream is perfect for Mediterranean-inspired dishes. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s easy to make and low-carb too! Enjoy it as a dip, sauce, or dressing for a delicious and healthy snack.
3) Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad
Here’s a creamy cucumber dill salad made with a sour cream and vinegar-based salad dressing. It’s a great way to enjoy your crop of cucumbers on hot summer days!
4) Tuna Egg Salad
An easy tuna egg salad with sour cream is hard to beat. Made with hard-boiled eggs, canned tuna, celery, mayo, and sour cream for a delicious low-carb sandwich wrap!
Want More Low-Carb Recipes? Try These!
If you’re inspired by these low-carb dishes, these keto recipes make the perfect pairing to sour cream:
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