Cauliflower Rice Veg Recipes Of India To Try Today

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Cauliflower rice has taken the culinary world by storm, especially for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional rice. In India, a country known for its diverse and flavorful vegetarian cuisine, cauliflower rice veg recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy classic tastes with a modern twist.

These dishes blend the nutritional benefits of cauliflower with the vibrant spices and fresh vegetables typical of Indian cooking, creating meals that are not only delicious but also low in carbs and calories.

Whether you’re managing your diet or simply looking to add more veggies to your plate, cauliflower rice is versatile and easy to prepare. Today, we’ll explore some delightful Indian cauliflower rice veg recipes that bring both comfort and nutrition to your table.

Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Indian cauliflower rice veg recipes are a perfect balance of taste and health. Using cauliflower as a base cuts down on carbs drastically while retaining a satisfying texture similar to rice.

These dishes are packed with colorful vegetables, fragrant spices, and fresh herbs that awaken your palate.

What makes these recipes truly special is their adaptability. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a festive meal, cauliflower rice can be customized with whatever vegetables and spices you have on hand.

Plus, they’re gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and suitable for many dietary preferences.

You’ll also appreciate how easy these recipes are to whip up, requiring minimal equipment and straightforward steps, making them accessible for both beginner and seasoned cooks.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 4 cups riced)
  • 1 tablespoon oil (mustard oil or vegetable oil preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 1 green chili, chopped (optional for heat)
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, bell peppers)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
  • Juice of half a lemon

Equipment

  • Food processor or box grater (for ricing cauliflower)
  • Large skillet or non-stick pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Mixing bowl

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower rice: Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower. Chop into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice grains. Alternatively, grate the cauliflower using a box grater.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet: Place the pan over medium heat and add cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili. Cook until the onions turn translucent and golden, about 4-5 minutes.
  4. Add tomatoes and spices: Stir in chopped tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil starts to separate from the masala, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add mixed vegetables: Toss in carrots, peas, beans, and bell peppers. Cook for 4-5 minutes until veggies are tender but still crisp.
  6. Cook the cauliflower rice: Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet. Mix thoroughly with the vegetable-spice mixture. Cook uncovered for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
  7. Finish with garam masala and lemon juice: Sprinkle garam masala and stir well. Turn off the heat and drizzle lemon juice over the dish. Mix gently.
  8. Garnish and serve: Top with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot as a main dish or side.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, avoid overcooking the cauliflower rice. It should be tender but not soggy.”

  • Add paneer cubes or tofu for added protein to make this a wholesome meal.
  • Use mustard oil or ghee to bring authentic Indian flavors.
  • Swap vegetables according to season and availability — spinach, corn, or mushrooms work wonderfully.
  • For a spicier version, increase green chili or add a pinch of black pepper.
  • Try adding roasted nuts like cashews or peanuts for crunch.
  • Serve with a side of yogurt or raita for a cooling contrast.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 150 kcal
Carbohydrates 15 g
Protein 4 g
Fat 7 g
Fiber 5 g
Vitamin C 60% of RDI
Iron 8% of RDI

Serving Suggestions

Cauliflower rice veg dishes pair beautifully with Indian breads like roti or naan for a more filling meal. You can also enjoy them alongside a dollop of cooling cucumber raita or a tangy mango chutney.

For a lighter option, serve it as a standalone dish with a fresh salad or a bowl of lentil soup. It also makes a great side to grilled paneer or tandoori vegetables.

Looking for more delightful vegetable dishes? Check out our Muthiya Kadhi Recipe for a tangy yogurt-based curry or the Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food for a hearty vegan option.

Delicious Indian Cauliflower Rice Veg Recipes Listicle

Cauliflower Pulao (Pilaf)

A fragrant and colorful pilaf made by cooking cauliflower rice with peas, carrots, and whole spices like cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaf. It’s a perfect one-pot meal that can be garnished with toasted nuts and raisins for a festive touch.

Cauliflower Fried Rice Indian Style

This recipe gives a classic Indo-Chinese twist to cauliflower rice by stir-frying it with soy sauce, bell peppers, cabbage, and spring onions. It’s quick, tasty, and a great way to enjoy your veggies.

Spicy Cauliflower Rice Upma

Inspired by the South Indian breakfast dish, this upma uses riced cauliflower instead of semolina, cooked with mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, and peanuts for texture and flavor.

Cauliflower Rice Biryani

A low-carb version of the beloved biryani, layering spiced cauliflower rice with vegetables or paneer, saffron, and caramelized onions. Serve it with cooling raita or pickle for an authentic experience.

Lemon Coriander Cauliflower Rice

A refreshing and light recipe flavored with fresh lemon juice, green chilies, and plenty of chopped coriander leaves. This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables or lentil curries.

Masala Cauliflower Rice

This recipe mixes cauliflower rice with a robust tomato-based masala sauce and assorted vegetables. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.

Conclusion

Cauliflower rice veg recipes from India offer a wonderful fusion of health and taste. These dishes demonstrate how simple ingredients and aromatic spices can transform cauliflower into a versatile rice alternative that fits perfectly into vegetarian and low-carb diets.

With so many variations—from pilafs and biryanis to upmas and fried rice—there’s a recipe for every mood and occasion.

Embracing cauliflower rice in your cooking not only adds nutritional value but also introduces new textures and flavors to your meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these recipes are approachable and adaptable, making Indian cauliflower rice veg dishes a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

For more creative and healthy recipes, explore our collection including the Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or the delicious Lamb Tenderloin Recipes.

📖 Recipe Card: Cauliflower Rice Veg Recipes of India

Description: A healthy and flavorful Indian-inspired cauliflower rice dish packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green chili, chopped
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1/2 cup green peas
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds and cumin seeds until they splutter.
  2. Add chopped onions and green chili; sauté until onions turn translucent.
  3. Add diced carrots and green peas; cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt.
  5. Add grated cauliflower rice and mix well.
  6. Cover and cook on medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
  8. Serve hot as a side or light meal.

Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 15 g

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Marta K

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