Spicy Cauliflower Rice With Minty Cucumber Raita Food

SPICED CAULIFLOWER RICE

Steps:

• Cut the cauliflower into quarters through the stem. Trim and discard the core, then separate the head into florets. Place a third of the florets into a food processor and pulse in 2- to 3-second bursts until the cauliflower is finely chopped and has the consistency of couscous. Repeat twice, until all of the cauliflower is chopped. (One large head should yield approximately 8 cups chopped.)
• Combine the cumin, pepper, turmeric, ginger and nutmeg in a small bowl and add 1 tablespoon water. Stir well to combine and set aside.
• Heat the oil in a large saute pan over high heat. When the oil begins to shimmer, add the onion and cook, stirring often, until tender but not browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until aromatic, 30 seconds more. Stir in the spice mixture and cook another 30 seconds.
• Add the cauliflower, peas and carrots and stir well. Add some salt to taste. Cook, stirring often, until the cauliflower is tender, about 5 minutes. Transfer to bowls and garnish with chives.

CUCUMBER MINT RAITA

Steps:

• Transfer the yogurt to a large glass mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth, about a minute. Fold in the cucumbers, mint, honey and cumin. Stir until completely incorporated. Finish with the lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste. Cover with plastic and chill until ready for use. Serve garnished with the lemon zest and mint. Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

CUCUMBER RAITA

Steps:

• Peel cucumber. Cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips, then into thin slices crosswise. Blot off moisture with paper towels. Toast cumin seeds for a few seconds in a small, heavy frying pan over high heat. In a bowl, stir yogurt until it is smooth. Mix it with the cumin, garlic and coriander or mint leaves. Combine mixture with cucumber slivers, sprinkle with cayenne or paprika, and chill before serving.