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Mexican Cauliflower Rice Recipe

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4.2 from 4 reviews

This vibrant Mexican Cauliflower Rice is a flavorful, low-carb alternative to traditional rice dishes. Made with riced cauliflower sautéed with garlic, onion, and a blend of spices, then enriched with tomato paste and a touch of chicken broth for moisture. Finished with fresh cilantro and an optional squeeze of lime, it's a quick and healthy side dish perfect for any Mexican-inspired meal.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1/2 small yellow onion (finely diced)
  • 4 cups riced cauliflower
  • 2 tsp finely chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime (sliced into wedges, optional)

Spices & Condiments

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 1/2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/4 - 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt (to taste)

Liquids

  • 2-3 tbsp chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Heat garlic and onion: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until lightly browned and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Then add the finely diced onion and sauté until tender and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Cook cauliflower rice: Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet with the garlic and onions. Stir and cook until the cauliflower is tender but still slightly crisp, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  3. Season and moisten: Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and salt to taste. If the mixture feels dry, gradually add the chicken broth one tablespoon at a time, stirring well after each addition, until the cauliflower is soft and evenly coated with the tomato paste and spices.
  4. Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the finely chopped cilantro over the rice. Optionally, squeeze fresh lime juice from the wedges onto the rice before serving. Serve warm as a side dish or a light main course.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • Adjust the cumin and paprika to your taste preference for more or less spice.
  • Use fresh riced cauliflower for best texture, or frozen if unavailable, just thaw and drain excess moisture.
  • Lime juice adds a refreshing tang; don’t skip if you enjoy a bright citrus flavor.
  • This dish is best served immediately but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Low Calorie