For those embracing a ketogenic lifestyle, finding versatile and flavorful condiments can sometimes be a challenge. However, with this homemade keto ranch dip recipe, you can enjoy the classic taste of ranch without the unnecessary carbs, artificial flavors, and unhealthy additives found in many store-bought versions. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time. Whether you're looking for a delicious dip for raw veggies, a flavorful topping for wings, or a unique pizza dunker, this keto ranch dip is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why Make Your Own Keto Ranch Dip?
Packaged seasoning mixes, including ranch seasoning, often contain hidden ingredients that can derail your keto diet. These may include artificial colors and flavors, maltodextrin, monosodium glutamate (MSG), preservatives, and added sugars. By making your own keto ranch dip, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that you're only consuming healthy, keto-friendly components.
The Secret is in the Seasoning
The key to a truly delicious keto ranch dip lies in the seasoning blend. This recipe utilizes a homemade ranch seasoning mix that combines dried herbs and spices to create a zesty and flavorful profile. The base of the dip consists of sour cream, which provides a creamy texture and a tangy foundation for the other flavors. For an extra zing, a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice can be added.
Ingredients
The following ingredients are needed to create this delightful keto ranch dip:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado oil-based)
- 1 cup sour cream (or ½ cup sour cream + ½ cup milk for a thinner consistency)
- 1 packet OR 3 tbsp of homemade ranch seasoning
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra zing)
For the Ranch Seasoning:
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- Parsley
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Chives
- Dill
- Salt
- Pepper
These seasonings can be adjusted to your preference. If you like more garlic, add more garlic powder.
Instructions
Making this keto ranch dip is incredibly simple and requires just a few easy steps:
- Prepare the Ranch Seasoning (if making from scratch): In a small bowl, combine all ranch seasoning ingredients. Stir to combine and set aside.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, add mayonnaise and sour cream. Stir to combine.
- Add the Seasoning: Add the ranch seasoning to the bowl and stir until well combined.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2-4 hours or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together and the dip to thicken.
Serving Suggestions
This keto ranch dip is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Raw Veggies: Serve with your favorite keto-friendly raw vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, celery, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and sliced bell peppers.
- Wings: Use as a dipping sauce for keto-friendly chicken wings.
- Pizza Dunker: Enjoy as a unique and flavorful pizza dunker.
- Cheese Whisps or Pork Rinds: Use as dippers for a crunchy and satisfying snack.
- Keto Crackers: Serve with your favorite keto crackers.
- Salad Dressing: Thin it out with a little low-carb milk to use as a salad dressing.
Tips and Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: To make a dairy-free version, substitute the sour cream with dairy-free sour cream or nut milk. For a vegan option, replace the mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise.
- Adjusting Consistency: For a thinner consistency, add a little more milk or nut milk. For a thicker consistency, use only heavy cream or omit the milk altogether.
- Adding Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the dip.
- Dill Pickle Ranch: Use dill pickle juice, chopped pickles, and extra dill for a tangy, salty flavour.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, such as oregano and dill, add them to the dip for a more vibrant flavor.
- Lemon Juice: If you like an extra zing, add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice!
Making Keto Ranch Dressing
If you prefer a keto ranch dressing instead of a dip, simply use the ranch seasoning in the recipe and add ½ cup keto buttermilk (or ¼ cup heavy cream and apple cider vinegar), ½ cup keto mayonnaise, and ½ cup sour cream.
Instructions
- Combine ¼ cup cream and apple cider vinegar in a medium bowl and whisk until combined. Allow to sit for 10 minutes.
- Add mayonnaise, sour cream, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, dill, and black pepper to the bowl.
Storage Instructions
Store the keto ranch dip in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
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Is Ranch Keto?
Traditional ranch dressing is often not keto-friendly due to added sugars and unhealthy oils. However, this homemade keto ranch dip is made with keto-friendly ingredients and is low in carbs, making it a great option for those following a ketogenic diet.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is approximate only. Values may differ according to types and brands of foods used. Erythritol carbs are not included in carb counts as it has been shown not to impact blood sugar. Net carbs are the total carbs minus fiber.
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