# Mexican-Inspired Cauliflower Rice Alternatives QDOBA Launched Mexican Cauliflower Mash Nationwide By Grace Mahas | Published 2020-12-14 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mexican-cauliflower-mash-1 References: [qdoba](https://www.qdoba.ca/) & [prnewswire](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/qdoba-mexican-eats-launches-mexican-cauliflower-mash-nationwide-301191626.html?tc=eml_cleartime) [QDOBA](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/qdoba-mac-queso), the [fast-casual restaurant chain](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/quesada-burritos-tacos), recently announced the launch of the new Mexican Cauliflower Mash across the United States. The new, low0carb rice alternative is made with fresh cauliflower that is oven-roasted in-house daily and blended with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and pico de gallo. The new offering is not only delicious but is also keto-friendly coming in at 6 grams of carbs per 4.5 oz. serving. "We decided to launch the Mexican Cauliflower Mash instead of a cauliflower rice as it is a more innovative option and delivers an enhanced flavor experience for our guests," adds Katy Velazquez, Executive Chef at QDOBA. "Oven-roasting fresh cauliflower in-house daily creates caramelized notes, savory flavors and great texture." Fans can incorporate the new Mexican Cauliflower Mash into [burritos or bowls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/power-bowls1), or enjoy it as part of QDOBA's brand new Cauli-Mash Low-Carb Chicken Bowl. Image Credit: QDOBA ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.4/10 - Popularity: 11% | Activity: 23% | Freshness: 9% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Health](https://www.trendhunter.com/health) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Low-carb Rice Alternatives:** The rise of low-carb rice alternatives like Mexican Cauliflower Mash presents an opportunity for food companies to cater to consumers following ketogenic or low-carb diets. - **Innovative Flavor Experiences:** By using oven-roasted cauliflower to create caramelized notes and savory flavors, restaurants can deliver innovative and delicious flavor experiences to customers. - **Keto-friendly Food Options:** The introduction of keto-friendly options like Mexican Cauliflower Mash taps into the growing demand for low-carb, high-fat foods among health-conscious consumers. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Fast-casual Dining:** Fast-casual restaurants can capitalize on the trend of low-carb rice alternatives by offering innovative cauliflower-based menu items. - **Health Food:** The health food industry can benefit from the popularity of keto-friendly options like Mexican Cauliflower Mash by developing similar low-carb products. - **Food Delivery Services:** Food delivery services can expand their offerings to include low-carb rice alternatives like Mexican Cauliflower Mash, catering to customers following specific diet plans. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Tex Mex Macaroni Bowls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/qdoba-mac-queso.md) - [Authentic Mexican Corn Dishes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/qdoba-mexican-street-corn.md) - [Replenishing Post-Workout Bowls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/post-workout-bowls.md) - [Nutritious Free-From Snack Chips](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/caulitos.md) - [Easy-Prep Mashed Cauliflower Sides](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mashed-cauliflower-side.md) - [Comforting Cauliflower Meals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sweetgreen-late-fall-menu.md) - [Chromatic Cauliflower Side Dishes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rainbow-cauliflower.md) - [Tex-Mex-Inspired Basmati Rices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/royal-white-queso-jalapeo-basmati-rice.md) - [Microwavable Mexican Street Meals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mexican-street-corn-white-rice.md)