Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice

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If you need a tasty side dish with only a handful of ingredients, this Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice is the one for you! This recipe turns regular cauliflower into a spicy veggie packed dish that’s perfect for any meal.

This chipotle cauliflower rice is an easy recipe that everyone enjoys. If you have ever tried to make your own cauliflower rice, you may not believe me.

But fresh cauliflower rice does not taste like regular rice. It tastes like cauliflower.

But this recipe gives you chipotle flavored cauliflower rice because it cooks the cauliflower in simple ingredients like roasted garlic and chipotle in adobo sauce. 

That gives a smoky and spicy kick to the whole dish which takes regular cauliflower florets and turns them into a great alternative to traditional rice recipes.

And  the best part of this dish is how fast and easy it is to make. The longest part is ricing the cauliflower which is easy if you have the fight tools. It really is a perfect veggie side dish for busy weeknights.

What is Cauliflower Rice?

Cauliflower rice is a dish that looks like rice, but it is made from vegetables. You turn cauliflower into small, rice-like grains and cook it. It’s a great option for those looking to eat low carb while still enjoying a rice-like texture meal.

This version makes cauliflower rice chipotle flavored which gives you more flavors in the form of a mexican cauliflower rice that everyone loves.

What Ingredients are in Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice?

• Cauliflower: this is the base, giving a light and fluffy almost like rice texture.
• Minced Garlic: this gives the dish flavor and helps the cauliflower chipotle rice smell great as it cooks.
• Cilantro: chopped cilantro adds brightness and color to the dish.
• Chipotle in Adobo Sauce: chipotle peppers are a smoky and spicy ingredient that brings just a bit of heat to the riced cauliflower.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the cauliflower rice chipotle and bring out the overall richness of the dish.

Pro Tip: Change the spice level by controlling the amount of chipotle in adobo sauce; use less to make it more mild. Use more for more kick.

How to Make Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice:

1. In a large skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil until golden brown.
2. Stir in cauliflower rice and continue cooking over medium heat.
3. Add cilantro and minced chipotle in adobo sauce, stirring until cauliflower softens.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and brightness.

Pro Tip: Use a box grater or a food processor with the shredding blade to get the perfect cauliflower rice texture.

Is Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice Cooked or Raw?

Chipotle cauliflower rice is cooked. Sautéing the cauliflower gives you a soft texture like rice. It also lets the flavors cook into each other as it heats.

Is Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice Good for You?

Yes, cauliflower rice is very good for you! This dish is straight vegetables which have a lot of nutrients and health benefits. It also adds flavors with fresh ingredients that keep you satisfied and reaching for more.

Can You Freeze Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice?

Yes, you can freeze cauliflower chipotle rice to use later. Be sure it’s stored in an airtight container, and you can keep it in the freezer for up to two months before using it again.

What to Serve with Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice:

Pair this spicy cauliflower rice with grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite protein. Turn it into cauliflower tacos with lime zest and plenty of sauce.

You can also try it instead of cilantro lime rice with black beans and sour cream in a burrito bowl or served under this zucchini and bell pepper stir fry.

Is Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice Gluten-Free?

Yes, this spicy cauliflower rice recipe is gluten-free. It is a great dish to serve to guests with gluten sensitivities.

Is Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice Vegan?

Yes, everything in this spicy rice is vegan! There are no animal byproducts which make this one of the delicious plant-based options you can feed everyone at your dinner table.

Is Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice Healthy?

Yes, spicy cauliflower rice is healthy! It is packed with cauliflower and minimal added healthy fats, this dish is nutritious and a tasty alternative to traditional rice.

Does Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice Taste Like Rice?

Chipotle cauliflower rice does not taste like rice. It tastes like cauliflower. 

But cauliflower rice mimics the texture of traditional rice and absorbs the flavors of garlic and chipotle sauce.

This easy cauliflower rice recipe takes the texture of riced cauliflower and mixes it with classic cilantro chipotle flavors to give you a dish packed with so much flavor, you won’t even miss the rice.

Can Dogs Eat Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Rice?

No, do not feed your dogs this cauliflower spicy rice. Feeding spicy or seasoned foods to dogs can make them sick. Stick to plain, unseasoned cauliflower for a dog-friendly treat.

If you’re a fan of cauliflower, you should check out this Broccoli Cauliflower Pea Salad. It’s simple, creamy and packed with flavor!

If you’re looking for something a little healthier, try this Cauliflower Popcorn.

We’re also fans of soup. This Cauliflower Cheddar Soup is always a hit too!

Cauliflower rice with Adobo peppers is a great Mexican food dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. For best results serve it with a scoop of Pico de Gallo and your favorite copycat chipotle Mexican grill chicken. 

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