Needing to shed a few pounds, I’ve been busy creating dishes that although leaner are still interesting. Lately I’m finding many ways to use cauliflower rice. It’s so easy to make and so incredibly versatile. If you really want to cut corners, many grocery stores sell it prebagged for convenience in the produce section.
As I have pointed out in my recent cookbook, Twisted Basics: Laugh, Cook, Eat! vegetables do not have to be boring! There is no substitute for fresh veggies, when it comes to feeling healthy. When I make cauliflower rice, I like to use a large head so I will have additional meals at the ready. I simply vacuum seal it in 4 cup increments. One large head can produce enough for 3 meals! When I made this Mexican Cauliflower Rice dish today, my wife could not tell the difference between real rice and its faux counterpart.
MEXICAN CAULIFLOWER RICE
INGREDIENTS:
1 medium head cauliflower, riced (approx. 4 cups)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups red or yellow onion, chopped
1 cup bell pepper (any color), chopped
1 paste tomato, diced
1 jalapeno pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
3/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup vegetable or chicken stock
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Juice from 1/2 lime
3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1 cup Greek yogurt
3 teaspoons green tabasco
INSTRUCTIONS:
To make cauliflower rice, separate head into flowerettes and slice stalks into 1 inch pieces. Place in food processor and pulse 7-8 times or until course and resembles rice. Measure out 4 cups and set aside.
Chop your veggies and prep ingredients. Combine spices in a small bowl and mix.
Whisk together Greek yogurt and green tabasco. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Heat a 12 inch non-stick skillet on medium-high. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil
Add onion, peppers, tomato, and garlic. Sauté for 5-8 minutes or until soft.
Add the spice blend, stock, and tomato paste. Mix well and cook for 2 additional minutes.
Add cauliflower rice and cook until desire texture is reached, folding ingredients until thoroughly incorporated, about 5-6 more minutes.
Add minced jalapeño and mix.
Plate and drizzle dressing over the top. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Serves 4
“Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds, cannot change anything.” —George Bernard Shaq
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