Have you ever made too much cauliflower rice and wished you could save it for later? Well, the good news is that you can freeze cauliflower rice to enjoy at a later date. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind when freezing this deliciously healthy food. Read on to find out the do’s and don’ts of freezing cauliflower rice.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can freeze cauliflower rice. However, it will impact the taste and texture of the rice. It will also only last for a few months in the freezer.
Cauliflower rice can be frozen by simply placing it in a zip-top bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it out in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. You may find that the cauliflower rice has a softer texture after freezing and thawing. Additionally, freezing may cause some of the flavors to be lost, so you may want to add some seasonings when you reheat it.
Can You Freeze Cauliflower Rice?
Cauliflower rice is a great low-carbohydrate, high-fiber substitute for traditional white rice. It can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to casseroles. You can buy cauliflower rice pre-made at the grocery store, or you can make it yourself by grating or pulsing cauliflower in a food processor.
Freezing cauliflower rice is a great way to have it on hand for quick meals. The taste and texture of frozen cauliflower rice are pretty much the same as fresh cauliflower rice. It will last in the freezer for up to six months.
How To Freeze Cauliflower Rice?
If you love cauliflower rice, but don’t always have time to make it from scratch, freezing it is a great option. Here are the steps to freeze cauliflower rice:
1. Wash and chop the cauliflower into small florets.
2. Spread the florets on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Let the cauliflower cool completely.
4. Place the cooled cauliflower in a food processor and pulse until it reaches the desired consistency (you may need to do this in batches).
5. Place the cauliflower rice in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.To cook frozen cauliflower rice, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until thawed.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Cauliflower Rice
When you are prepping cauliflower rice, there are a few steps you can take to make the freezing process easier. First, cut the florets into smaller pieces so that they freeze faster. Second, blanch the florets for two minutes in boiling water before transferring them to ice water. Finally, drain the cauliflower and spread it out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once it is frozen, you can store it in a Ziploc bag or container. By following these simple steps, you can have frozen cauliflower rice that is ready to use whenever you need it!
How To Thaw Frozen Cauliflower Rice
To thaw frozen cauliflower rice, you can either microwave it or place it in a colander and run cold water over it until it’s thawed. You can then cook it however you’d like – I usually sauté mine with some olive oil, salt, and pepper. Enjoy!
How Long Does Cauliflower Rice Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
Cauliflower rice will last 3-4 days outside of the fridge. It is safe to eat after this point, but it will start to degrade in quality. Cauliflower rice can be frozen for 2-3 months.
How Long Does Cauliflower Rice Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
Cauliflower rice will last in the fridge for up to four days.
It’s always best to use cauliflower rice as soon as possible after it’s been made, but if you need to store it, be sure to put it in an airtight container or bag and refrigerate. It’s also a good idea to rinse the cauliflower rice before storing it, as this will help keep it fresh for longer.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Cauliflower Rice?
Ideas, list:
-Add to stir-fries
-Use as a substitute for rice in dishes like pilaf or fried rice
-Make “cauliflower pizza crust” by blending cauliflower with an egg and some grated cheese, then baking on a greased baking sheet until firm
-Mix with chopped onions, tomatoes, and herbs to make a simple side dish
-Boil it as you would pasta, then dress with butter, salt, and pepper
-Sautee it with olive oil and garlic for a quick side dish