Riced cauliflower is easy to make and a nutritious and light alternative to using rice in your usual recipes. Our top tip is to make sure you select the best cauliflower available at your local grocery store. Look for fresh and firm heads and avoid any cauliflower that has brown spots appearing.
After washing your cauliflower, take the time to dry it thoroughly. Any excess moisture will make the rice soggy and won’t produce the desired texture for the recipe. When using the food processor, pulse in short bursts, so you don’t overprocess the cauliflower and end up with a soggy, purée. If you don’t have a food processor in your kitchen, you can try using a box grater or a sharp knife instead to create the cauliflower rice.
Once you’ve mastered this rice alternative in your kitchen, take a look at our helpful guide detailing all the different types of rice you need to know to explore other flavors and textures for your dishes.
Flavor Variations
Cauliflower rice is a blank canvas when it comes to flavor and can be varied in many ways to bring spice or even a little sweetness to a recipe. Soy sauce and scallions are a flavorful addition to fried cauliflower rice, and ideal additions when the cauliflower rice is served alongside Asian dishes.
For a Mediterranean feel, add garlic, parsley, and oregano to bring a taste of Italy to the cauliflower rice. Spices, such as turmeric and cumin, contribute a welcome heat to the cauliflower rice. Some chefs will even add a selection of toasted nuts, such as walnuts, for added texture and crunch in the cauliflower rice.
Lastly, for a Mexican-inspired cauliflower rice dish, add jalapeños and chopped cilantro to the recipe above to pair with the lime juice, for a bright, spicy flavor. Try adding to burritos, stuffing into peppers, or using as the base for classic Mexican rice bowls as a nutritious alternative.
How to Serve Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice can be plated in a variety of ways depending on the dish you’re pairing it with. If you’re making it for a salad recipe, you can enjoy it straight from the food processor once you’re happy with the overall texture.
For warm dishes, it’s better to fry the cauliflower rice first to add additional flavor and crispiness before serving. It can be added to any dish you’d usually enjoy with rice, from a cauliflower rice stir-fry to a grain bowl. It’s also a lighter alternative to pair with your usual choice of curry.
Storage Tips
Cauliflower rice can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Transfer it to an airtight container that’s lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture during storage. If the cauliflower rice has been cooked, let it cool completely before moving it into the refrigerator. It can be easily reheated in a skillet over high heat with a dash of olive oil in the pan.
