Food & Beverage

Qdoba testing cauliflower rice

Provided

September 11, 2020

Qdoba is testing Mexican Cauliflower Mash in 23 restaurants in Indianapolis and the surrounding area. Marketed as a low-carb alternative to rice, the mash consists of oven-roasted cauliflower blended with cilantro, pico de gallo and sour cream. It has 6 grams of carbs per 4-ounce serving.

"More than ever, guests are seeking low-carb options — whether cooking at home or ordering from their favorite restaurants," Karin Silk, vice president of menu and off-premises, said in a company press release. "Our new Mexican Cauliflower Mash gives people just what they are seeking: a healthier option instead of rice that is still full of flavor."

Guests may incorporate the mash into customized burritos and bowls or try it in the Cauli-Mash Low-Carb Chicken Bowl, which includes grilled adobo chicken and fajita veggies.

As low-carb lifestyles continue to grow, sales for products containing cauliflower increased 71% in 2019, according to Nielsen data.

Qdoba Mexican Eats has more than 730 locations in the U.S. and Canada.