Dietary Guide

Low-Carb Chinese Takeout: What to Order

Dietary ordering · Chinese menu literacy

Low-carb Chinese takeout is easiest when starch, sugar, breading, and sweet sauces are controlled.

Common menu signals to check

  • Pork Possible Check for pork filling, lard, sausage, ham, roast pork, or pork broth.
  • Shellfish Possible Check for shrimp, oyster sauce, dried shrimp, XO sauce, seafood broth, and shared equipment.
  • Gluten / wheat High Check soy sauce, wrappers, noodles, flour coatings, wheat starch, and shared fryers.
  • Soy High Check soy sauce, tofu, fermented bean pastes, marinades, and prepared sauces.
  • Sesame Possible Check sesame oil, sesame paste, sesame seeds, chile crisp, and sauce bars.

Common menu signals to check. Actual ingredients and kitchen practice vary by restaurant.

Overview

Low-carb Chinese takeout is easiest when starch, sugar, breading, and sweet sauces are controlled.

Better choices

  • Steamed or stir-fried meat and vegetables
  • Sauce on the side
  • Egg drop soup if acceptable
  • Lettuce wraps
  • Tofu or chicken with greens
  • Hot pot without noodles or rice

What to watch for

  • Rice
  • Noodles
  • Buns
  • Dumpling wrappers
  • Sweet sauces
  • Battered fried chicken
  • Cornstarch-heavy gravies

Useful phrase

请少糖，不要米饭和面条，酱汁放旁边。

A phrase can help communication, but it cannot verify kitchen practice, sauce labels, or cross-contact.

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