Spiced Cauliflower Rice
Description:
This vibrant and flavorful Spiced Cauliflower Rice is an aromatic, vegetable-packed dish perfect for anyone seeking a healthy yet delicious alternative to traditional rice. The cauliflower is lightly stir-fried with a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and Kashmiri chilies, infusing every bite with a delightful warmth. With its mild heat and bold flavors, this dish makes an excellent side or a light, vegetarian main. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and easy way to elevate any meal.
Spice Level: Medium
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4
Dietary Info: Vegetarian
Rating: 3.7 stars (51 votes)
Views: 48,520
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cauliflower, shredded | 1 medium | For the base of your cauliflower rice. |
| Rapeseed oil | 1 tbsp | Used for sautรฉing the spices and cauliflower. |
| Black mustard seeds | 1 tsp | Adds a mild, nutty flavor and aroma. |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp | Imparts an earthy, warm spice. |
| Dried Kashmiri chillies (broken) | 2 | Mildly spicy with a vibrant color. |
| Fresh ginger, finely grated | 5 cm piece | For a fresh, zesty kick. |
| Garlic clove, sliced | 1 | For a savory depth of flavor. |
| Turmeric | ยฝ tsp | Adds earthiness and a vibrant yellow hue. |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Enhances all the flavors. |
| Fresh green chillies, sliced | 2 | For an extra touch of heat and flavor. |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cauliflower:
Begin by roughly chopping the cauliflower into chunks. Add these pieces to a blender or food processor, and blitz for just a few seconds to create a fine, rice-like texture. Be careful not to over-process it; you want small, rice-sized shreds of cauliflower. -
Cook the Spices:
In a large saucepan or wok (karahi), heat the rapeseed oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to sizzle and pop for a few seconds. -
Add Aromatics:
Next, add the dried Kashmiri chilies, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry these ingredients for about 30 seconds, allowing their aromas to fill the air. Then, sprinkle in the turmeric and salt, stirring everything together. -
Stir-Fry the Cauliflower Rice:
Add the shredded cauliflower to the pan and stir well to combine with the spices. Continue to stir-fry over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. This allows the cauliflower to soften slightly while absorbing the fragrant spices. -
Final Touches:
For the final step, stir in the fresh green chilies. Let the rice cook for another 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Spiced Cauliflower Rice immediately, either as a side dish or as a light main course. Enjoy the vibrant blend of spices and the healthful crunch of cauliflower!
Allergen Information
This dish is free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. It contains mustard seeds, which may be an allergen for some individuals.
Dietary Preferences
This recipe is vegetarian and can be enjoyed by those following vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. To make it vegan-friendly, ensure that no animal products are added as toppings or sides. Itโs also low-carb, making it an excellent choice for those on a low-carb or keto diet.
Tips & Advice
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the number of green chillies and dried Kashmiri chillies to suit your personal spice preference. Kashmiri chillies are typically milder, but feel free to substitute with other chili varieties if you prefer a hotter dish.
- Add Protein: If you’d like to turn this into a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked chickpeas or lentils to the cauliflower rice for a protein boost.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat with a little oil or water to restore moisture.
Conclusion
Spiced Cauliflower Rice is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and nutritious dish that brings a burst of spices to your table. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a vibrant, low-carb alternative to traditional rice. The combination of mustard seeds, cumin, and Kashmiri chilies adds warmth and depth, making this dish perfect for any meal. Whether you’re following a vegetarian, vegan, or low-carb diet, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
