Is Bulgur Keto?

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Bulgur sticker illustration
KETO VERDICTAVOID

Bulgur is cracked wheat and high in net carbs—~14g net carbs per 100g cooked (and ~58g/100g dry). It’s too carb-dense for a ketogenic diet; opt for riced-cauliflower or konjac-rice instead.

Bulgur is cracked wheat and high in net carbs—~14g net carbs per 100g cooked (and ~58g/100g dry). It’s too carb-dense for a ketogenic diet; opt for riced-cauliflower or konjac-rice instead.

  • Net carbs (100g)14g
  • Protein (100g)3.1g
  • Fat (100g)0.2g
  • Keto verdictAvoid on keto

NUTRITION FACTS

Per 100g (raw)

Net Carbs
14g
Total Carbs
18.6g
Fiber
4.6g
Protein
3.1g
Fat
0.2g
Calories
83

Source: USDA FoodData Central

WHY IT'S NOT KETO-FRIENDLY

  • Not suitable for standard keto due to high net carbs
  • Whole grain but still delivers a significant glucose load
  • Contains gluten (wheat) and offers little fat for keto ratios
  • If craving grains, swap with riced-cauliflower or konjac-rice
  • Best reserved for non-keto phases or higher-carb days
  • Portion control does not fully mitigate carb density

HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Provides dietary fiber that supports digestion
  • Contains minerals like manganese and magnesium
  • Offers B vitamins (e.g., niacin, folate) for energy metabolism
  • Whole-grain polyphenols contribute antioxidant activity
  • Plant-based protein adds to overall intake (non-keto contexts)
  • Can support heart-healthy patterns in non-keto diets

PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS

TABBOULEH (NON-KETO)

Toss cooked bulgur with herbs, lemon, olive-oil, cucumber, and tomato-cherry.

PILAF (NON-KETO)

Simmer with broth, onion-yellow, and spices for a classic side dish.

GRAIN BOWL (NON-KETO)

Combine with roasted veggies, feta-cheese, and tahini dressing.

SOUP THICKENER (NON-KETO)

Stir into soups or stews to add body and texture.

KETO SWAP: CAULI “RICE”

Replace bulgur 1:1 with riced-cauliflower sautéed in olive-oil or clarified-butter.

KETO SWAP: KONJAC RICE

Use konjac-rice for near-zero-carb grain-like texture.