8 Tasty Pork Rind Substitutes for Keto and Low-Carb Diets

I’m not sure if the word “munchies” comes from the words “crunchy” and “mood,” but if it did, I have the perfect snack recipe for you that will make you feel great: Vegan Pork Rinds. This recipe is inspired by the infamous Pork Grinds which are chips made from deep-fried pork skin. Although I do not support eating pigs, I am a fan of crispy snacks. So I made this recipe vegan by using rice paper sheets and adding different spices to make it taste smokey and tasty.

This simple recipe is a bowl full of delicious, crispy, and cruelty-free snacks. All you need for this recipe are pieces of rice paper, hot oil, and your favorite seasonings.

Crunchy, salty pork rinds are a staple snack for keto and low-carb diets. But not everyone eats pork for religious, dietary or personal reasons. Whether you’re looking for vegan options or just want to change up your snacking routine, there are many alternatives that give you the same satisfying crunch without the pork.

Here are 8 delicious pork rind substitutes to give you options:

1. Cheese Crisps

Baked cheese crisps are an easy keto-friendly alternative with big flavor Simply top small piles of shredded cheese with seasonings and bake until melted and browned. Go classic with cheddar or experiment with hard cheeses like Parmesan

2. Flaxseed Crackers

Make protein-packed crackers by mixing flaxseed meal with egg whites, baking powder and seasonings. Spread on a baking sheet, score into crackers and bake. Serve with dips or top with avocado.

3. Roasted Chickpeas

Chickpeas roasted with oil and spices transform into crunchy little nuggets. Opt for seasoning blends with robust flavors like chili powder, cumin and garlic powder to give that savory kick.

4. Roasted Soy Beans

Dry roasted edamame beans make for a protein-rich, vegan pork rind substitute. Toss shelled soybeans with a little oil and salt and roast until crispy. Soybeans pack over 15g protein per 1/4 cup!

5. Seaweed Snacks

Crunchy roasted seaweed sheets satisfy cravings for something salty and savory. Look for lightly seasoned seaweed made without lots of added oil or sweeteners. With minerals and antioxidants it’s a healthy snack option.

6. Pepitas

Also known as pumpkin seeds, pepitas have a satisfying crunch when roasted. Toss raw pepitas with oil and spices like chili powder or cayenne and roast until browned and crispy. Store extras in the fridge.

7. Thinly Sliced Vegetables

For a natural, veggie-packed option, thinly slice vegetables like zucchini or jicama and bake until crispy. Kale chips also give a similar salty crunch. Experiment with fun seasoning blends.

8. Pork Puff Snacks

Finally, some brands make puffed pork-free snacks designed to mimic pork rinds. Frito-Lay makes a version called Pork Puffs with similar texture but in flavors like barbecue and chili cheese.

With a little creativity, you can find all kinds of delicious alternatives to pork rinds that give you crunch and flavor. Try mixing up different options to keep your snacking exciting on a low-carb diet. Which will be your new favorite?

what can i use instead of pork rinds

Alternative ways to make this recipe:

Any seasoning you choose will work great with this recipe, but I like cayenne, chili, light sugar, salt, and pepper. You can even add a splash of lime to give it a nice zesty touch. How much spices you would like to put is up to you!.

How many servings does this make?

This recipe makes about 4 servings, but you can use as many rice paper sheets as you want! The pieces start out small, but they get bigger when they touch hot oil.

Do it Yourself Pork Rinds that IMPRESS!!

FAQ

What is similar to pork rinds?

Chicharrones and Pork Rinds Are Used Interchangeably That’s because pork rinds and chicharrones are the same if both are made from pork. The primary difference comes from the type of meat used, so chicharrones are only appreciably different if they’re made from beef or mutton.

Are pork rinds healthier for you than potato chips?

Nutritional Content Pork rinds are often seen as a healthier and more guilt-free alternative to potato chips because they contain fewer calories, saturated fat, and carbohydrates. They also have high levels of protein and, specifically, collagen protein.

What are plant-based pork rinds?

Delicious pork flavor, without the pig! Ingredients: Rice, High-Oleic Expeller Pressed Sunflower Oil, Pea Protein, Pea Grits, Pork Rind Seasoning (Pea Protein, Maltodextrin, Yeast Extract, Sea Salt, Natural Flavors*, Cane Sugar*, Salt, White Distilled Vinegar).

Are pork rinds an unhealthy snack?

Are Pork Rinds Healthy? Pork rinds have no carbohydrates or sugars, which makes them a popular pick on the keto diet. They’re also naturally gluten-free. Pork rinds also don’t have any fiber, and can contain a high amount of sodium, making them a less than nutritious snack.

What is a substitute for pork rinds?

So, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan and you’re looking for a substitute for pork rinds, there are plenty of options to choose from. Veggie chips, roasted chickpeas, roasted nuts, and tofu puffs are all delicious and nutritious alternatives.

Are pork rind substitutes healthy?

Pork rind substitutes offer a myriad of healthier and versatile alternatives that cater to various dietary needs. Whether you’re seeking a low-carb snack, a high-fiber side, or a crispy base for your culinary creations, these substitutes will satisfy your cravings without compromising your health goals.

Can rice paper be used as a vegetarian substitute for pork rinds?

Rice papers are super thin wrappers traditionally made from rice, water, and salt. You can fill them with almost anything to make amazing veggie rolls. Apart from its regular use, you can also use rice paper as a vegetarian substitute for pork rinds. Their texture is excellent for achieving the lightness of the meat-based product.

Are pork rind substitutes keto?

Whether you’re seeking a low-carb snack, a high-fiber side, or a crispy base for your culinary creations, these substitutes will satisfy your cravings without compromising your health goals. Yes, most pork rind substitutes are low in carbohydrates and high in fat, making them suitable for keto and low-carb lifestyles.