Learn How To Rice Cauliflower for a Lower-Carb Side Dish Option

We’ve got your low-carb starch substitute covered.

Since you’re here, it’s probably safe to assume that you’re interested in learning how to rice cauliflower. Great choice! Due to its mild taste and ability to soak in flavor, cauliflower has an uncanny ability to mimic rice. Why choose this alternative option? Because it’s lower in carbs and calories! This makes it an excellent, healthy choice if weight loss is your goal. Cauliflower’s power includes immunity building and digestive system assistance. This cruciferous vegetable keeps longer than others, also.

Versatility Of Riced Cauliflower

Cauliflower, why have we not seen you for the star you truly are? Just as kale had a rising moment, cauliflower is most definitely having a minute as well. Buffalo cauliflower is a trendy appetizer on restaurant and bar menus. Additionally, pizza crusts and crackers made with cauliflower are a thing. Furthermore, this low-carb substitute is a great choice for replacing mashed potatoes and white rice. 

Cooked correctly, cauliflower’s texture and taste simultaneously pleases the palate and the body. Although the convenience of bagged pre-riced cauliflower supersedes making your own, there is a time for everything. Most prepared bags of veggies are triple in price, in comparison. Equally important is the appeal of purchasing goods that aren’t processed.

How To Rice Cauliflower

Making the rice from scratch really isn’t much work or cleanup. Although blenders and box graters work, your best bet is a food processor. Ultimately, this tool makes less mess and produces more uniform cuts. Check the notes section of the recipe card for methods using the grater or blender. If you don’t have any of these tools, knifing cauliflower into rice isn’t worth it. In fact, you’re better off with the pre-bagged variety. Because time is money.

With that being said, a food processor is the tool of choice. First, remove the stem and outer leaves. Then, cut the head into four sections. After that, cut the sections in half again. Then cut into smaller florets. Finally, add the florets into the food processor. Pulse them until they break down into pieces resembling rice. Batches might be necessary in this step.

How To Cook This Low-Carb Substitute

Stove-top sautéing is perhaps the easiest and tastiest method. Because cauliflower soaks up flavor like a sponge, white wine, chicken broth, or butter are all wonderful options. Moreover, pulverized cauliflower cooks up in no time. All those small pieces magically cook through quickly. To that end, medium-high heat is preferable. This is especially true if you like your veggies brown and crisp. 

Equally fast is roasting in the oven– or even quicker– the air-fryer! Just be sure to watch the cauliflower closely because it has the potential to burn. Any temperature above 400 degrees is dangerous here, due to the micro mini pieces you just cut. Your best bet is between 375 to 400 degrees for ten minutes, checking in at the five minute mark.

“Faux” mashed potatoes are another great dish utilizing riced cauliflower. Steam the rice with your choice of milk and butter. Then, blend or use an immersion blender for a creamy and dreamy product. 

However you use the cauliflower rice, it’s sure to be something of an adventure! Enjoy the ride and savor the flavor.

Feeling like making more cauliflower dishes? Try this Low-Carb Loaded Cauliflower Casserole or our Super Easy Cauliflower Fried Rice

For more low-carb, Keto-friendly, and Paleo recipes, check out our Pinterest and Instagram accounts. You’ll be able to browse through our delicious healthy meals. We dare you not to drool!