This delicious keto kung pao sauce not only packs a punch but also delivers a rich versatile flavor. Use for kung pao chicken or even a pork marinade (yes, it’s amazing both ways)!
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Kung Pao Sauce
Creating and re-creating sauces is one of my favorite things to do. I love sauces. I love marinades. But mostly, I love having a familiar taste when eating keto versions of some of my favorite foods.
I was craving kung pao chicken but obviously didn’t want the sugar and carbs from the traditional (and amazing tasting) kung pao sauce.
So I created a simplified keto version where you get the same great taste in less time and with WAY less carbs.
I know this many not completely resemble 100% the kung pao sauce you are used to, but the taste is what matters most! (well, and carb count for those of us following a keto lifestyle)
How To Make Kung Pao Sauce
Are you ready for this?
The beautiful thing about this sauce is the absolute simplicity!
You literally just combine ALL the ingredients (listed below in the recipe card) and carefully stir and combine. Nothing fancy!
A few substitution notes:
Garlic – You can use minced garlic from a jar or garlic that you chop/mince yourself.
Ginger – I sometimes get asked if you can substitute ground ginger for fresh, grated ginger. The answer is, not really. If you REALLY want to, you can. But fresh ginger really does provide the perfect flavor.
The standard substitution is 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger for every 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger. So you would only use just a pinch in this recipe as it only calls for 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger.
Liquid Aminos – I can offer two substitutions for liquid aminos. The first is coconut aminos. This will give a sweeter flavor than traditional liquid aminos.
The other option is “No Soy” soy sauce. This is probably one of my favorites. It is thick and does not quite taste as salty as liquid aminos. I used liquid aminos in this recipe to keep it close to the original taste. BUT for most other things, my preference is the “No Soy” soy sauce!
Does This Kung Pao Sauce Use Chili Peppers?
No, it does not. Traditionally kung pao sauce does use chili peppers.
BUT, I’m all about saving time and energy and wanted this just a touch milder. So, instead of using chili peppers, we opt for red pepper flakes instead. You still get the POW, but just not quite as much.
Substituting the chili peppers really makes this easy keto dinner just a bit more family friendly. And I have 5 kids, so there’s that!
What Does Kung Pao Taste Like?
Kung Pao Sauce has a hot and spicy flavor with just a touch of sweet. General Tso Sauce has more of a sweeter flavor, but this one still has just a touch of sweetness.
It is also thick and coats the meat and veggies quite well.
If you want the BEST recipe to taste test this delicious keto kung pao sauce, then be sure to check out my keto kung pao chicken.
Other Easy Keto Sauces From The Keto Option
Keto Kung Pao Sauce
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup liquid amino acids
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon unseasoned rice wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon low carb brown sugar substitute
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
Instructions
- In a small bowl, add all ingredients.
- Carefully stir until brown sweetener is dissolved.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge. You will need to stir again before use if you don’t use it right away.
Nutrition
Trina Krug is a Holistic Nutritionist, Integrative Health Coach and host of the Carbless Conversations Podcast. With a Master’s Degree in Complementary and Alternative Medicine, her single mission in life is to facilitate self-healing in herself and those around her through awareness, lifestyle shifts and low-carb eating. As a current Doctor of Science student, she continues her studies in functional nutrition.