Chile Ground Beef And Cauliflower: The Ultimate Healthy Comfort Dish Recipe
Introduction to Chile Ground Beef And Cauliflower
If you’re on the lookout for a nutritious yet satisfying meal that can be prepared in about 25 minutes, look no further! This Chile Ground Beef and Cauliflower recipe brings together the hearty flavors of extra lean ground beef with the wholesome goodness of cauliflower, creating a delightful dish that is both comforting and healthy. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s a dish that everyone will enjoy.
A Personal Story Behind My Chile Ground Beef And Cauliflower Journey
Growing up, my family always valued meals that brought us together. I remember my mother’s kitchen filled with delicious aromas as she experimented with different vegetables and meats. One of my favorite dishes was her spicy beef stir-fry, which inspired me to create this healthier version using cauliflower. It’s amazing how food can evoke such fond memories, and I’m thrilled to share this recipe that combines those cherished flavors with a modern twist.
What Makes This Chile Ground Beef And Cauliflower Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because it’s not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also incorporates wholesome ingredients that make it a healthier option compared to traditional beef dishes. The use of cauliflower instead of rice or pasta significantly lowers the carbohydrate count, while the combination of chili crunch and honey adds a unique flavor profile that is both spicy and sweet. Plus, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste!
The Full Chile Ground Beef And Cauliflower Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound cauliflower florets, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 1 1/2 tablespoons (24g) olive oil, divided
- 1/4 cup (64g) tomato paste (double or triple concentrated)
- 2 tablespoons (42g) honey
- 2 tablespoons (30g) chili crunch
- 2 tablespoons (30g) soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons (30g) black vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/3 cup water
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced (whites and greens separated)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the tomato paste, chili crunch, honey, soy sauce, black vinegar, water, and the whites of the scallions. Set this sauce aside to let the flavors meld.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the cauliflower and cook for 4-5 minutes until it starts to brown slightly. This step enhances the flavor, making the cauliflower tender yet crispy. Transfer the cauliflower to a bowl and cover it to allow it to steam.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, then add the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned. This ensures even cooking and a nice texture.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the browned beef and cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens. This will infuse the beef with all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
- Add the steamed cauliflower back to the pan and mix everything together well. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!
- Garnish with the green parts of the scallions before serving. This adds a fresh touch and a pop of color to your dish.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Chile Ground Beef And Cauliflower
This dish can be served over a bed of rice for a classic touch, but for a healthier option, consider serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice. For added texture, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving. You can also add more vegetables, like bell peppers or snap peas, to the mix for extra nutrients and color. Adjust the spice level by adding more chili crunch or serve it alongside a cooling cucumber salad.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chile Ground Beef And Cauliflower
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses lean ground beef, you can substitute it with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great choice for meal prepping.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
Chile Ground Beef And Cauliflower
Equipment
- Large Skillet For cooking the beef and cauliflower.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound cauliflower florets Cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 1.5 tablespoons olive oil Divided
- 0.25 cup tomato paste Double or triple concentrated
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons chili crunch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Or coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons black vinegar Or rice vinegar
- 0.33 cup water
- 4 scallions thinly sliced Whites and greens separated
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix tomato paste, chili crunch, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, water, and scallion whites. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add cauliflower, cook for 4-5 minutes until it browns slightly. Transfer to a bowl and cover to steam.
- Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, then add the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Pour the sauce over the beef, cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens. Add the cauliflower to the pan and mix everything together.
- Garnish with scallion greens and serve over rice.
- For a healthier option, serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch.