Cauli Mash with Maple Pancetta

About

This Keto mash is rich and creamy with a hint of sweet and salty! Our low carb side dish is prepared with tender cauliflower, butter, diced pancetta, aromatic garlic and low carb maple-flavored syrup. This simple yet flavorsome Keto recipe makes a great accompaniment to your preferred low carb mains – perfect with grilled pork chops or roasted chicken.

Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower?

We have used 1 medium fresh cauliflower to create our buttery Keto mash. If you prefer, you can use frozen cauliflower florets. 1 medium cauliflower will equate to roughly 3 cups of frozen cauliflower florets. Simply simmer the florets in boiling water until tender and soft enough to mash.

Can I Use a Different Sweetener?

We have added a splash of low carb maple-flavored syrup to our pancetta to add sweetness and help to caramelize the meat. You can use any low carb syrup you prefer or even a sprinkling of powdered low carb sweetener if desired. Please be sure to adjust your macros to account for any changes made to the original recipe.

Ingredients

3 oz diced pancetta
2 tablespoon butter, unsalted
1 medium – head – 5" to 6" diameter cauliflower, raw
1 clove garlic
1 tablespoon maple flavored syrup
½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon salt, sea salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Dice the cauliflower into even-sized florets, add to a medium saucepan and cover with boiling water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the cauliflower for 7-8 minutes or until tender and soft enough to mash. Drain completely and set aside to steam dry.
While the cauliflower is drying, add the olive oil to a skillet over a medium/high heat. Add the diced pancetta. Cook the pancetta until browned all over. Once the pancetta is browned, add the maple-flavored syrup and stir to coat. Cook for a minute more until the pancetta is golden and caramelized.
Add 2 generous tablespoons of butter to the saucepan with the cooked cauliflower and garlic. Mash the soft vegetables until smooth. If you would like a softer, purée consistency, you can blend in a food processor to reach the desired texture. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Transfer the buttery mash to a serving dish. Top with the maple pancetta. Drizzle over the sweet and salty pan juices to serve.