Low Carb Spiced Pilau Rice

Experience the bold, aromatic flavors of Indian-inspired cuisine with this Low Carb Spiced Pilau Rice, a healthy twist on the classic dish. This recipe uses finely riced cauliflower as a low-calorie, gluten-free alternative to traditional basmati rice, making it perfect for keto and low-carb diets. Infused with a fragrant blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and whole spices like cinnamon stick and cardamom pods, every bite is a burst of vibrant flavor. A touch of coconut oil enhances the dish’s richness, while tender peas and optional cilantro add a pop of freshness and color. Ready in just 25 minutes, this quick and nutritious side dish pairs beautifully with curries, grilled meats, or can even stand alone as a light, satisfying main course. Indulge in the perfect balance of taste, health, and tradition with this easy-to-make, flavor-packed cauliflower pilau rice.

Nutriscore Rating: 79/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 medium head Cauliflower
• 1 tablespoon Coconut oil
• 0.5 small (finely chopped) Onion
• 2 cloves (minced) Garlic
• 1 teaspoon Ground turmeric
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground coriander
• 1 Cinnamon stick
• 4 Cardamom pods
• 1 Bay leaf
• 0.5 cup Frozen peas
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons (chopped) Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Cut the cauliflower into florets and pulse them in a food processor until they resemble the texture of rice. Alternatively, use pre-riced cauliflower for convenience.

Step 2

In a large skillet or pan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic, ground turmeric, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Cook for 1-2 minutes until aromatic.

Step 5

Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and bay leaf, stirring well to coat them in the spices.

Step 6

Increase the heat slightly and add the cauliflower rice to the pan. Mix thoroughly with the spices and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.

Step 7

Add the frozen peas and salt, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through.

Step 8

Remove the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and bay leaf before serving.

Step 9

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired, and serve the Low Carb Spiced Pilau Rice warm as a side dish or light main course.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(625.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	389.4

Total Fat 16.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 12.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.4g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1878.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 53.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.7g	0%
Total Sugars 16.7g
Protein 16.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 230.7mg	0%
Iron 7.4mg	0%
Potassium 1912.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.0%

Protein: 15.0%

Carbs: 50.0%