Flavorful Keto Spanish “Rice” (Cauliflower-Based!)
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of traditional Spanish rice in a delicious low-carb version with this Flavorful Keto Spanish “Rice”! Cauliflower rice is sautéed and seasoned with classic Spanish spices, savory garlic, onion, and a touch of tomato sauce, creating a satisfying and flavorful side dish. This recipe is a wonderful addition to your health journey!
Yields: 4-6 servings Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 2 (10-ounce) bags frozen cauliflower rice (about 4-5 cups), or the equivalent of fresh cauliflower rice
- 1 chicken bouillon cube (ensure no added sugar or high carb fillers if strictly keto)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup white onion, finely diced
- ½ cup tomato sauce (choose a brand with no added sugar if strictly keto)
Equipment:
- Large skillet or pan with a lid
- Spoon or spatula
- Fork
Instructions:
- Sauté Cauliflower Rice: Place the cauliflower rice in a large skillet or pan with the avocado oil over medium heat.
- Sauté, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes until most of the moisture has evaporated and the cauliflower rice appears somewhat dry. This step helps prevent a watery final product.
- Add Aromatics & Seasonings: Add the minced garlic and diced white onion to the pan with the cauliflower rice. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Crumble the chicken bouillon cube over the cauliflower rice. Add the salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Stir well to distribute all the seasonings evenly throughout the cauliflower rice.
- Stir in Tomato Sauce: Pour in ½ cup (from an 8-ounce can) of tomato sauce. Stir well to combine, ensuring the tomato sauce coats the cauliflower rice.
- Cover & Simmer: Cover the pan with a lid, remove it from the heat, and let it sit undisturbed for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cauliflower rice to soften further.
- Fluff & Serve: After 20 minutes, remove the lid and fluff the Spanish “rice” with a fork.
- Serve hot as a flavorful and keto-friendly side dish with your favorite low-carb meals. Enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Dry Cauliflower Rice: Taking the time to sauté the cauliflower rice until dry is key to achieving a texture closer to traditional rice and preventing a mushy dish.
- Bouillon Cube: Check the ingredients of your chicken bouillon cube if you are strictly following a keto diet, as some may contain added sugars or starches.
- Tomato Sauce: Similarly, choose a tomato sauce with no added sugars for a truly keto-friendly version. Many good options are available.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of cumin and chili powder to your preference for a milder or more intense flavor.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Both fresh and frozen cauliflower rice work well. If using fresh, you may need to pulse it in a food processor until it resembles rice.
- Serving Suggestions: This keto Spanish “rice” pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or as a base for keto-friendly burrito bowls.
Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification:
This Keto Spanish “Rice” is a delightful addition to your health journey!
- Low-Carb: Yes, by using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Can be made vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth or a vegetarian bouillon cube instead of chicken bouillon.
- Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly, provided your bouillon cube and tomato sauce have no added sugars or high-carb fillers. All other listed ingredients are suitable for a ketogenic diet.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
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