Smoky Spanish Cauliflower Rice (One-Pot Vegan)

This quick one-pot cauliflower rice is packed with sweet, smoky flavors and makes a healthy, low-carb alternative to Spanish rice. Perfect as a main or side dish.

This Spanish-style cauliflower rice comes together in one skillet in under 30 minutes. The secret is a quick tomato-onion puree spiced with cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, which gives the cauliflower a deep, rich color and flavor.

It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and works for Paleo, Whole30, and low-carb diets. Serve it as a side with tacos or burrito bowls, or enjoy it as a light main dish with a squeeze of lime and fresh cilantro.

Ingredients

Servings 2

Converted amounts are rounded.

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Method

  1. If you haven't already, pulse the cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains. (See tips for perfect texture.)
  2. In a blender, combine 1 tomato (save the remaining half for later), the chopped onion, pickled jalapeno, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Blend until completely smooth.
  3. Pour the blended mixture into a skillet and set over medium heat. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raw onion smell disappears and the mixture thickens slightly.
  4. Add the chopped bell pepper and the remaining chopped tomato. Cook for 1 minute, stirring.
  5. Add the grated cauliflower to the skillet. Toss and stir well to coat everything with the sauce. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for 5 minutes.
  6. Remove the lid. Squeeze a little lime juice over the rice. If the cauliflower is still too firm for your liking, cook uncovered for another 2 minutes. Otherwise, fluff with a fork, taste and adjust seasoning, then cover again and let steam off the heat for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro, salsa, and lime wedges. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

💡 Tips

  • For the best texture, pulse the cauliflower in batches and avoid over-processing, which can make it mushy.
  • Feel free to add cooked black beans or corn for extra protein and color.
  • Adjust the heat by using more or less chili powder and pickled jalapeno.

Inspired by a recipe from Vegan Richa

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