Experience the traditional flavors of Indonesian cuisine with a modern twist in this "Low Carb Arem Arem" recipe! This guilt-free version of the classic Arem Arem swaps out rice for tender, sautéed cauliflower rice, creating a lighter dish that's perfect for keto or low-carb lifestyles. The filling features succulent chicken breast simmered in rich coconut milk, aromatic spices like turmeric, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass, and a touch of heat from red chili pepper. Wrapped in fragrant banana leaves and steamed, the result is a beautifully infused, flavor-packed snack or light meal. With just 20 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is an accessible, healthy homage to a beloved Southeast Asian delicacy. Perfect for meal prep, cozy dinners, or impressing your family with something truly unique!
Begin by preparing the filling. Thinly slice the shallots and garlic. Mince the red chili pepper and set aside.
Cut the boneless chicken breast into small cubes.
Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots, garlic, and red chili pepper, sautéing until fragrant.
Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook until lightly browned.
Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Add the salt, pepper, turmeric powder, kaffir lime leaves, and bruised lemongrass stick. Let this mixture simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld together, about 10 minutes.
Remove the kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass stick. Set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
In another skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Add the cauliflower rice and sauté until lightly cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Take the sheets of banana leaves and warm them over a flame to make them pliable.
Place a spoonful of cauliflower rice on a banana leaf, followed by a spoonful of chicken filling. Top with another layer of cauliflower rice. Roll the banana leaf to form a cylinder, folding the edges securely.
Repeat the rolling process for the remaining ingredients.
Steam the wrapped rolls for about 20 minutes or until the flavors are well-infused.
Serve warm and enjoy your low carb arem arem.
Calories |
947 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.6 g | 47% | |
| Saturated Fat | 25.2 g | 126% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 172 mg | 57% | |
| Sodium | 3255 mg | 142% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 92.3 g | 34% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.1 g | 65% | |
| Total Sugars | 37.8 g | ||
| Protein | 73.7 g | 147% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 276 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 12.8 mg | 71% | |
| Potassium | 3096 mg | 66% | |
*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.