You have heard of cauliflower and you have heard of rice but have you ever heard of cauliflower rice? If you are not familiar with this, it is simply cauliflower that has been grated to resemble a rice consistency. You can then use this to substitute for rice and grains. It certainly adds more fiber to your diet, has a lot less calories and is a nice change. I had been hearing so much about it I decided to make it and it got good reviews in the taste department. It is mild tasting and easily adapted to your favorite rice recipe.
Here is how to make it:
Start with a nice sized Cauliflower. Put it in a strainer and rinse it under cold water to wash off any dirt or grainy particles.
I turned mine over on a cutting board and cut off the leaves.
I used a nice sharp knife to cut off each little bunch.
In small batches, place the cauliflower in a high powered blender or food processor and pulse until you get a rice-like consistency. Place between paper towels to squeeze out excess water.
TO USE IN A RECIPE:
My recipe was adapted from THIS wonderful Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe.
I added 1 TABLESPOON OF COCONUT OIL to a pan on a medium high heat. Once the oil was melted and hot, I added 2 CLOVES OF GARLIC.
Next I added 1/2 A DICED YELLOW ONION and cooked until translucent.
I then added 1 MORE TABLESPOON OF COCONUT OIL and the CAULIFLOWER RICE and sauteed, constantly stirring for 5-7 minutes until the cauliflower became tender.
I added 1/4 CUP CHOPPED CILANTRO and THE JUICE OF 1/2 A LIME and stirred until well combined.
In the end, I would describe this more like a cous-cous consistency than a rice. It has a great flavor with just an added hint of coconut.
I stored some in my fridge overnight and it tasted just as good the next day.
If you want to bypass the grating of the cauliflower, you can buy cauliflower rice. If you have a Trader Joe's nearby, they carry it. Also, green giant makes a version which may be in the freezer section of your grocery store. Lots of experimental possibilities here! My FRIED RICE RECIPE is next on my list!
Thanks for stopping by
Warmly,
Pam