Low Carb Traditional Ghanaian Kenkey

Experience the rich flavors of West Africa with a modern twist through this Low Carb Traditional Ghanaian Kenkey recipe! This keto-friendly adaptation of the beloved fermented cornmeal dish swaps the carbs for almond flour and psyllium husk, while preserving the authentic texture and aroma of classic Kenkey. Wrapped in fragrant banana leaves, these delightfully soft dumplings are infused with a subtle tang from apple cider vinegar, simulating the fermentation process of the original recipe. Perfectly paired with spicy pepper sauce, hearty stews, or fresh seafood, this low-carb version is both nutritious and satisfying. Ready in just 80 minutes, it’s an easy and wholesome way to enjoy traditional Ghanaian cuisine while staying true to your dietary goals!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Almond flour
• 2 tablespoons Psyllium husk powder
• 1.5 cups Warm water
• 2 teaspoons Apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 4 large pieces Banana leaves
• 4 pieces Kitchen twine

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, psyllium husk powder, and salt.

Step 2

Gradually add the warm water while mixing the dry ingredients with a wooden spoon. Stir until the mixture forms a soft dough.

Step 3

Add the apple cider vinegar to the dough and knead gently to incorporate. Allow the dough to rest for 5 minutes to let the psyllium husk absorb the moisture and thicken the mixture.

Step 4

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a round ball.

Step 5

Prepare the banana leaves by cutting them into large rectangles (if not already pre-cut) and lightly warming them over an open flame to make them pliable.

Step 6

Place each dough ball in the center of a banana leaf. Wrap the leaf around the dough tightly, folding the edges neatly to enclose it completely. Tie the wrapped dough securely with kitchen twine.

Step 7

In a large pot, bring enough water to a boil to cover the wrapped Kenkey. Gently place the wrapped Kenkey into the pot and ensure they are fully submerged.

Step 8

Lower the heat to medium and simmer the Kenkey for 1 hour, checking occasionally to ensure the water level remains sufficient.

Step 9

Once cooked, remove the Kenkey from the pot and let them cool slightly before unwrapping.

Step 10

Serve warm with your favorite Ghanaian stew, soup, or pepper sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(988.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1169.3

Total Fat 96g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2370.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 59.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 36.6g	0%
Total Sugars 6.9g
Protein 41.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 452.1mg	0%
Iron 8.3mg	0%
Potassium 181.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 68.3%

Protein: 13.0%

Carbs: 18.7%