Coconut Cauliflower Rice (Keto, Low Carb)

Coconut cauliflower rice is a quick and easy side dish that uses frozen cauliflower rice, rich coconut milk, and other tasty fixings to create a deliciously rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. Much like traditional coconut rice, this low-carb and gluten-free version will make a great addition to any dish, taking it from ordinary to extraordinary. 

Those who follow a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diet are likely already well aware of how versatile cauliflower is, and this is just one more recipe that serves as proof!

Cauliflower makes an excellent substitute for regular rice, as well as potatoes, grits and even risotto. It's low in carbs and calories but high in vitamins and minerals, making it the perfect ingredient for those looking to cut back on their carb intake while still enjoying delicious meals.

keto coconut cauliflower rice

Coconut rice originates from countries in Southeast Asia, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand, where coconuts are abundant and used in various dishes.

Traditionally, coconut rice is made by cooking jasmine rice with coconut milk, giving it a rich, creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor.

It's a dish that I've been a fan of for a long, long time, but given that it's made out of rice and also sweetened with sugar, it doesn't quite fall under a low-carb lifestyle.

That's why I made my own tasty version using cauli rice instead of real rice... because everyone deserves a taste of this goodness!

This delicious side dish is a delightful combination of not just cauliflower rice and coconut milk, but other yummy forms of coconut, like coconut oil and shredded coconut.

I also add in a dash of salt and monk fruit sweetener for even more flavor. I recommend starting small with the monk fruit and working your way up until the sweetness is to your liking, as everyone's tastes are different!

why this recipe works 

Transitioning from traditional rice to cauliflower rice can be a little intimidating, especially if you've never tried it before.

We've all had our fair share of disappointing low carb alternatives, am I right? But with this recipe (like all my recipes), I made 100% certain that the taste and texture would be nothing short of perfection. 

Not only that, this low-carb side is ridiculously easy to make. You'll use frozen cauli rice instead of fresh cauliflower to cut the time and effort in half.

I strongly feel that low-carb eating should be sustainable for your lifestyle, so I always try to keep my recipes simple and accessible, and this one is no different!

My coconut cauliflower rice is:

• the perfect way to enjoy flavorful rice while on a low-carb diet.
• a great side dish that'll complement any healthy meal.
• made with minimal simple ingredients.
• ready to eat in a flash! Bring it from kitchen to table in just a few minutes.

ingredients for cauliflower coconut rice

Here's a look at the main ingredients you will need to make my coconut cauliflower rice.

Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page for the full ingredient amounts in the printable recipe card.

• Coconut oil. For optimal coconut flavor, use coconut oil instead of olive oil to cook your cauli rice
• Frozen riced cauliflower. You can find this in the frozen foods section of most grocery stores.
• Canned full-fat coconut milk. Unsweetened, canned coconut milk will provide the best creaminess and coconut flavor we're looking for in this dish.
• Salt. Salt adds just the right amount of savory to balance out all the sweet.
• Monk fruit sweetener. Use golden, classic, or powdered monk fruit sweetener for a hint of sweetness without the carbs. 
• Shredded unsweetened coconut. This adds extra flavor and texture to the dish. 
• Optional add-ins. Crushed kaffir lime leaves add a little extra flavor to this recipe. Or, make my favorite variation and stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro right before serving!

a creamy coconut cauliflower rice recipe

Whether you're making this Asian-inspired dish for a stir fry, curry, or as a side to grilled meats and veggies, this coconut cauliflower rice recipe is sure to be a hit.

It's quick, easy, and packed with flavor and nutrition. Here's a look at how to make it but be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page to view the printable recipe card.

That's it! Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious coconut cauliflower rice! 

tips for the best results

• Make sure to use unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream from a can (and not a carton). It will have the strongest coconut flavor and add a rich creaminess to the cauliflower rice. 

• If starting out with raw riced cauliflower (unfrozen), cook it with 3 tablespoons of water for about 7-10 minutes to soften the cauliflower. Then add the coconut milk and the rest of the ingredients. 

• To "rice" your raw cauliflower, chop it into small florets and pulse in a food processor until it breaks down into rice-like pieces. 

• Store leftover cauli rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. 

substitutions and variations

Coconut oil: You're welcome to use olive oil or avocado oil if you don't have coconut oil on hand. Just know it won't make the rice as coconut-y. 

Coconut milk: Canned coconut cream makes a great replacement for coconut milk and will taste just as delicious!

Monk fruit sweetener: Feel free to swap the monk fruit for other low-carb sweeteners like erythritol, stevia or allulose, if desired. I like monk fruit sweetener since it's low-carb and keto-friendly, but other low-glycemic sweeteners will also work. If you're using swaps, make sure to sweeten to taste. 

Other tasty additions: If you want to add more flavor and texture to the dish, try incorporating other ingredients like chopped nuts, butter, fresh herbs, or spices like ginger or turmeric. Have fun experimenting and making this recipe your own! 

cilantro lime version

For an even tastier spin, I like to add a drizzle of fresh lime juice and freshly-chopped cilantro to the cauli rice. It gives it a unique, fresh flavor. This is my favorite variation and definitely worth giving a try!

what to serve with coconut cauliflower rice

SO many tasty things go deliciously with my coconut cauliflower rice. For protein-packed mains, I recommend my Keto Cashew Chicken, Tumeric Black Pepper Chicken, or Keto Turkey Meatballs in Curry Sauce.

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