Beef brisket is a keto powerhouse: essentially zero carbs with a rich fat content. Slow-cooked or smoked, it’s tender, satisfying, and provides steady energy for ketosis.
Is Beef Brisket Keto?

Beef brisket is a keto powerhouse: essentially zero carbs with a rich fat content. Slow-cooked or smoked, it’s tender, satisfying, and provides steady energy for ketosis.
Each 100g serving delivers 0g net carbs, making it easy to keep things keto-friendly.
- Net carbs (100g)0g
- Protein (100g)26g
- Fat (100g)17g
- Keto verdictKeto-friendly
NUTRITION FACTS
Per 100g (raw)
Source: USDA FoodData Central
WHY IT'S KETO-FRIENDLY
- Zero net carbs: pure protein + fat supports ketosis
- Favorable fat-to-protein ratio for satiety and macro balance
- Collagen-rich cut that becomes gelatinous when slow-cooked
- Great for batch-cooking to keep keto meals on hand
- Pairs well with low-carb rubs and sugar-free sauces
- Versatile: smoke, braise, pressure-cook, or roast
HEALTH BENEFITS
- Collagen/gelatin may support joint and gut health when slow-cooked
- Rich in bioavailable iron to support oxygen transport
- Good source of zinc for immune function and protein synthesis
- Provides carnosine, an antioxidant dipeptide found in red meat
- Supplies choline for brain and liver health
- Contains taurine which may support cardiovascular function
PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS
SLOW COOKER BRISKET
Season generously, sear, then cook on low 8–10 hours with beef broth and aromatics until fork-tender.
INSTANT POT BRISKET
Sear, add broth and seasonings; pressure-cook 60–90 minutes (size-dependent). Natural release.
TEXAS-STYLE SMOKED
Smoke at 225–250°F (107–121°C) about 1 hour per pound; simple salt + pepper rub; wrap in butcher paper to finish.
GARLIC-BRAISED
Sear, then braise at 300°F (150°C) with broth, garlic, rosemary, and thyme for 4–5 hours.
ASIAN-INSPIRED
Slow-cook with ginger, garlic, coconut-aminos, and sesame-oil; serve with cauliflower-rice or bok choy.