Description
This vibrant Turmeric Cauliflower Rice recipe offers a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional rice, infused with warm turmeric and cumin spices. Sautéed with aromatic onions and garlic, then finished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, this flavorful dish is perfect as a side or light main for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious, gluten-free, and low-calorie meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium head cauliflower (about 1.3 lbs), cut into florets
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- Pinch of red chili flakes, optional
Oils and Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Process cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a food processor and pulse repeatedly until the texture resembles rice grains, working in batches if necessary to avoid over-processing.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma, taking care not to burn it.
- Toast spices: Add the ground turmeric, ground cumin, black pepper, and red chili flakes if using. Stir continuously and cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
- Cook cauliflower rice: Add the riced cauliflower and sea salt to the skillet. Stir well to evenly coat the cauliflower with the spices. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender but still slightly firm and not mushy.
- Finish with citrus and herbs: Remove the skillet from heat. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the cauliflower rice and toss in the chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, mixing thoroughly.
- Final adjustment and serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or spices if needed. Serve the turmeric cauliflower rice warm as a healthy side or main dish.
Notes
- You can substitute coconut oil for olive oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Make sure not to overcook the cauliflower rice to maintain a pleasant texture similar to rice grains.
- Add a pinch of red chili flakes to introduce a bit of heat or omit it for a milder dish.
- For added protein, consider tossing in cooked chickpeas or your choice of beans.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and suitable for low-carb and low-calorie diets.
