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If you’re hunting for scrumptious, health-conscious, and creative ways to slip more veggies into your daily meals, then today is your lucky day! I’m about to share how to make riced broccoli – in fact, I’ve got four fantastic methods for ricing vegetables! Get ready to metamorphose those unassuming broccoli crowns and broccoli florets (or cauliflower heads) into a flexible, nutrient-rich rice substitute with this simple recipe tutorial.
Table of Contents
- What is riced broccoli?
- Ingredients
- Equipment for ricing broccoli
- Preparation of broccoli for ricing
- How to make broccoli rice: four ways
- How to store rice broccoli recipes
- How to cook broccoli rice
- Recipes using rice broccoli or cauliflower
- FAQs: frequently asked questions
- More tutorials for better home cooking!
- How to Make Broccoli Rice
What is riced broccoli?
Riced broccoli is just broccoli that’s been transformed into tiny, grain-sized pieces, much like traditional rice. This ingenious veggie hack allows you to enjoy all the goodness of broccoli in a form that’s incredibly versatile, low-carb, and easy to seamlessly sneak into a variety of dishes.
Imagine having the earthy, nutty flavor and fantastic nutritional benefits of broccoli, all conveniently packaged in tiny, rice-like morsels. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to cut down on carbs, boost their veggie intake, or simply get creative in the kitchen. In other words, riced broccoli is about to become your new kitchen BFF — plus, ricing broccoli is SO EASY! 🥦🍚
Ingredients
As promised, this simple riced broccoli recipe requires very little. Here’s what to grab:
- Head of Broccoli or Cauliflower – If it’s already broken down into broccoli stems and florets, even better!
Equipment for ricing broccoli
Next, you’ll need to pick your preferred kitchen tool:
- Food Processor with Chopping Blade: This is the ideal sidekick for riced broccoli when you want a quick and uniform chop. Just toss your broccoli florets in, give it a whirl, and voilà, you’ll have perfectly riced broccoli in seconds. This method is perfect for efficiency, ensuring you get consistent results for your recipes without breaking a sweat.
- Food Processor with Shredding Disc: This trusty food processor attachment can take your riced broccoli to the next level. Swap out that chopping blade for the shredding disc, and watch as it transforms your broccoli into delicate, rice-sized shreds. It’s a fantastic choice if you prefer a lighter and fluffier texture for your dishes, almost like couscous. Plus, it’s lightning-fast, saving you precious time in the kitchen.
- Box Grater: Ah, the humble box grater. It can turn a block of cheese into gorgeous shreds, or turn a head of broccoli into perfect grains, all without any electrical input. Using the box grater to rice your broccoli gives you the opportunity to put a personal touch on each grain. Simply run your broccoli florets across the grater’s holes, and you’ll create a lovely, rustic grated broccoli texture that’s perfect for sautés, stir-fries, or salads.
- Chef’s Knife: For those who relish the hands-on approach, the chef’s knife is your tool of choice. It’s perfect for when you want complete control over the size and shape of your riced vegetable. Dice it finely or go a bit larger for a heartier feel. With a chef’s knife, you’re the artist, crafting your riced broccoli to suit your dish precisely.
Preparation of broccoli for ricing
Before you start, you’ll need to rinse and dry your broccoli. Then, you’ll want to break it down into more manageable chunks known as florets. Don’t fret if you’re not sure where to start — I’ve got you covered with a full tutorial on how to prep broccoli.
How to make broccoli rice: four ways
With the following four methods of how to make riced vegetables at your disposal, you’ll be equipped to whip up your very own broccoli or cauliflower rice. Whether you have a fancy food processor with a chopping blade or a shredding disc, a simple box grater, or just a sharp chef’s knife, there’s a method that will suit any kitchen setup.
The best part of this riced broccoli recipe? You’ll not only savor the satisfaction of creating this versatile, nutrient-packed rice alternative from scratch, but you’ll also save some hard-earned cash by skipping store-bought versions. So, no matter your kitchen’s toolkit, get ready to transform those humble broccoli or cauliflower heads into a tasty, grain-free alternative without breaking the bank. 💰🥦🍚
Option 1: food processor chopping blade
Working in multiple batches, add a few handfuls of the broccoli florets to the bowl of a food processor. Cover the bowl with the top and pulse until the broccoli is chopped into small pieces resembling a grain of rice. Repeat the process with the remaining florets of broccoli, turning them all into rice.
Option 2: food processor shredding disc
Add the shredding disk (also called a grating plate or disc) to the top of the food processor bowl and then cover the bowl with its lid. Place the broccoli florets into the chute (feed tube) of the processor’s lid. Turn on the processor to shred the broccoli florets until they resemble short grains of rice.
Option 3: box grater or cheese grater
Working with one large broccoli floret at a time, press the floret against a hand or box grater and grate it into small pieces that resemble a grain of rice.
Option 4: How To make riced broccoli using a chef’s knife
If all you have to work with is a sharp chef’s knife, don’t worry – you can finely chop broccoli using a kitchen knife. Working with a couple handfuls of broccoli florets at a time, use your sharp chef’s knife to chop the broccoli into small pieces resembling a small grain.
How to store rice broccoli recipes
Now that you’ve mastered the art of crafting perfect grains of broccoli or cauliflower rice, it’s time to think about Future You. Preparing ahead not only saves you precious time on busy days but also ensures that you always have a nutritious and versatile ingredient on hand.
Storing freshly made riced broccoli or cauliflower is a breeze. Simply:
- Transfer it to an airtight container or resealable freezer bag and remove as much air as possible,
- Pop it in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or the freezer for up to 6-8 months, and you’re all set!
How to cook broccoli rice
While rice florets shines in its raw, crisp form, don’t hesitate to take it to the stovetop or oven if you’re in the mood for a different culinary adventure. Cooking your low-carb rice alternative can transform it into a tender, flavorful pseudo-grain side dish that complements a wide array of dishes.
There’s no limit to how you can prepare this riced broccoli recipe, either. For example, you can sauté it with some garlic, shallots, and olive oil for a savory side, stir it into a comforting risotto, or toss it with your favorite seasonings, like garlic powder, salt, and pepper; then, roast it for a delightful, slightly crispy texture. The versatility of cooked vegetable rice opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to tailor its taste and texture to your liking.
Here’s my favorite cooking method:
Heat a bit of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-low to medium heat. Add the veggie rice to the pan and season with kosher salt, ground black pepper, and any other spice or seasonings you love with broccoli. Cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the broccoli is warm throughout – the rice should remain bright green in color. Stir in some lemon juice, lemon zest, and parmesan cheese; or lime juice and cilantro. Then, enjoy!
Recipes using rice broccoli or cauliflower
Wondering what to do with riced broccoli and cauliflower? Not to worry. Here are some of my favorite recipes using these tasty veggie bits:
- Broccoli Tots
- Rice Summer Salad
- Chinese Chicken with Broccoli Rice
- Mexican Cauliflower Rice
- If you’ve got leftover cooked broccoli rice, use it to make fried rice!
FAQs: frequently asked questions
How long does raw broccoli last?
Got a raw head of broccoli hanging around your fridge that you want to turn into grain-free grains? No worries! Just know that you can let a head of raw broccoli hang out in your fridge for about 1 to 2 weeks before it starts to lose its crisp charm. Just make sure you keep it chilled in a sealed bag or container to keep it as fresh as possible. 🥦
Is broccoli rice good for you?
Absolutely! Riced veggies are not only delicious but packed with nutrients too! Broccoli itself is a nutritional powerhouse. When you rice it, you’re getting all the fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, just in a smaller form. Plus, it’s lower in carbs than regular rice, making it a great choice if you’re watching your carb intake. 🥦🦸♀️😋
Is riced broccoli keto?
You bet! Riced florets are a keto-friendly superstar. Since it’s low in carbs and high in fiber, it’s a fantastic choice for folks following a keto diet by helping satisfy those rice cravings without breaking your carb bank.
Can you freeze rice made from broccoli?
Heck yeah you can! This riced broccoli recipe keeps for up to 6-8 months if properly frozen in an airtight, freezer-safe bag with all the air pushed out.
Can dogs eat broccoli rice?
Absolutely! Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable that can offer your canine companion vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants — if they’ll eat it. (One of my pups loves her veggies, while the other turns her nose up at them. 🤷)
Just remember to take some precautions to keep your furry friend safe and healthy. First, make sure the broccoli is well-cooked and steer clear of any seasonings or spices that might be harmful to them. It’s also wise to be cautious with portion sizes, as too much broccoli can upset your dog’s tummy.
Lastly, I always recommend consulting with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about introducing new foods into your dog’s diet, especially if they have specific dietary restrictions or health issues. Your vet can provide tailored guidance to ensure your pup stays happy and well-fed.
Whether you’re on a health kick or just looking for a fun way to veg out, riced florets are your green ticket to delicious versatility. So, go ahead, rice it, dice it, and spice it to your heart’s content. And if you ever feel like sharing your favorite broccoli rice creations, remember to “stalk” me on social media. Until next time, keep ricing and shining, my fellow foodies! 🥦✨🍚
Cheyanne
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More tutorials for better home cooking!
Riced broccoli recipe four ways👇
How to Make Broccoli Rice
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor OR Box Grater OR Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 1 head Broccoli or Cauliflower – cut into florets
Instructions
Prepare Broccoli for Ricing
- Prep Broccoli: Add broccoli florets to a colander and gently run cool water over the florets to rinse them. Then, drain and throughly dry the broccoli florets.
Rice Broccoli Using One of the Methods Below
- Food Processor Bowl Instructions: Working in multiple batches, add a few handfuls of the broccoli florets to the bowl of a food processor. Cover the bowl with the top and pulse until the broccoli is chopped into small pieces resembling a grain of rice. Repeat the process with the remaining florets of broccoli.
- Food Processor with Shredding Disk: Add the shredding disk (also called a grating plate or disc) to the top of the food processor bowl and then cover the bowl with its lid. Place the broccoli florets into the chute (feed tube) of the processor’s lid. Turn on the processor to shred the broccoli florets until they resemble short grains of rice.
- Box Grater: Working with one large broccoli floret at a time, press the floret against a hand or box grater and grate it into small pieces that resemble a grain of rice.
- Chef’s Knife: Working with a couple handfuls of broccoli florets at a time, use your sharp chef’s knife to chop the broccoli into small pieces resembling a grain of rice.
Store Broccoli Using Instructions
- Fridge Storing: Transfer your broccoli rice or cauliflower rice to an airtight container or storage bag and store in the fridge for up to 4 to 5 days. Freezer Storing: Alternatively, store it in a freezer-safe storage bag and store it in the freezer for up to 6 to 8 months.
Cooking Riced Broccoli Instructions
- To Cook Riced Broccoli: If you’d like to cook your broccoli rice, heat a bit of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-low to medium heat. Add the broccoli rice to the pan and season with kosher salt, ground black pepper, and any other spice or seasonings your love with broccoli. Cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the broccoli is warm throughout – the rice should remain bright green in color.
Notes
- Broccoli and Cauliflower: This ricing tutorial works for any size, variety, and number of broccoli heads or cauliflower heads.
- Technique: If you're using a Chef's knife to rice broccoli, make sure you tuck the fingers of your non-dominant hand under to keep them protected and out of the way of your knife. This will also allow you to use your knuckles as a guide for the knife.
Nutrition
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