WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Looking for a tasty and healthy meal option? Cauliflower fried rice is the perfect solution! This dish is low in carbs and high in flavor. I’ll guide you through simple steps to whip up your own batch, exploring fresh ingredients and cooking tips. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on a classic dish, this recipe will impress you. Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: This cauliflower fried rice is a nutritious twist on traditional fried rice, making it a great option for those looking to reduce carbs.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add protein like chicken or tofu to suit your taste.
- Flavorful and Delicious: The combination of sesame oil, ginger, and fresh vegetables creates a vibrant dish that is as tasty as it is healthy.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 medium head of cauliflower, grated or pulsed into rice-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and bell peppers)
– 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
– 3 green onions, sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a healthier option)
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon chili flakes for heat
Nutritional Information per Serving
Each serving of cauliflower fried rice offers a healthy option. It contains about 150 calories, 8 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fiber. You also get vitamins A and C from the veggies. By using cauliflower, you lower carbs and calories compared to regular rice.
Recommended Equipment
To make this dish, you need a few tools for ease.
– A food processor helps chop cauliflower into rice-sized pieces.
– A large skillet or wok cooks everything evenly.
– A spatula is useful for stirring and scrambling eggs.
– Measuring spoons ensure you add the right amount of oil and sauces.
These tools make cooking fast and fun, letting you focus on flavors and textures.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cauliflower
First, you need to get your cauliflower ready. Take off the leaves and core. Cut the cauliflower into smaller florets. Next, use a food processor to pulse the florets. Keep pulsing until they look like rice grains. This step makes your cauliflower fried rice light and fluffy. Set the riced cauliflower aside for later.
Cooking the Aromatics
Now, it’s time to cook the aromatics. Heat two tablespoons of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add one medium diced onion and two cloves of minced garlic. Stir them often until the onion turns clear. This process releases a wonderful aroma that is key to your dish.
Adding Vegetables and Scrambling Eggs
Next, stir in one cup of mixed vegetables. You can use carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Cook these for three to four minutes until they soften. Then, push the veggie mix to one side of the skillet. On the empty side, pour in two large beaten eggs. Gently stir the eggs until they scramble and cook through. This adds protein and a nice texture to your meal.
Combining Ingredients and Seasoning
Now, it’s time to combine everything. Add the prepared cauliflower to the skillet. Mix all the ingredients well. Cook for five to seven minutes. You want the cauliflower to soften but stay firm. Then, add two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of grated ginger, and season with salt and pepper. If you like a bit of heat, toss in one teaspoon of chili flakes. Stir well to blend all the flavors.
Finishing Touches
For the final touch, add three sliced green onions to the skillet. Cook for another two minutes. This adds freshness and color to your dish. Taste your cauliflower fried rice and adjust the seasoning if you need to. Once done, remove it from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your healthy, tasty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Cauliflower
When selecting cauliflower, look for firm heads. They should be white and free from brown spots. Fresh cauliflower has tight florets and green leaves. If the leaves are wilted, the cauliflower might not be fresh. Size matters too; a medium head is perfect for this recipe.
Ensuring Perfect Cauliflower Rice Texture
To get the best texture, pulse the cauliflower in a food processor. Don’t over-process it, or you’ll turn it into mush. Aim for rice-sized pieces. If you don’t have a food processor, you can grate the cauliflower with a box grater. This method takes more time but works well too.
Cooking Tips for Best Flavor
Use sesame oil for a nutty taste. Heat it before adding onions and garlic. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent. This step builds a great flavor base. When adding vegetables, cook them just until they’re tender. This keeps them colorful and crisp. Finally, don’t forget the soy sauce and ginger. They add depth to the dish. Adjust seasoning to your taste, and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Cauliflower: For the best texture and flavor, choose a fresh head of cauliflower that feels firm and has no brown spots.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or swap out the mixed vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand.
- Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower: Aim for a tender yet firm texture by cooking the cauliflower rice just until it softens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Boost the Flavor: Consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a drizzle of sesame oil right before serving for an extra depth of flavor.

Variations
Different Vegetable Combinations
You can swap out the mixed vegetables in your cauliflower fried rice. Try using broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas. Each vegetable adds its own taste and texture. You can even use leftover veggies from your fridge. Just make sure they are cut into small pieces to cook evenly.
Protein Additions (tofu, chicken, shrimp)
Adding protein makes the dish heartier. Tofu works well if you want a plant-based option. Just cube it and sauté until golden. For meat lovers, cooked chicken or shrimp is great too. Add them after the garlic and onion for a rich flavor. Each protein brings its own unique taste to the dish.
Flavor Enhancements (spices, sauces)
You can boost the flavor of your cauliflower fried rice in many ways. Add spices like cumin or paprika for a warm kick. Try a splash of sesame oil for extra depth. You can also experiment with sauces. Teriyaki or sriracha adds a fun twist. Don’t be afraid to mix and match to find your favorite flavor.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your cauliflower fried rice fresh, let it cool first. Use an airtight container to store it. It will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you can enjoy your meal later.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat your fried rice. The best way is to use a skillet. Add a small amount of sesame oil to the pan. Heat it over medium heat. Add the cauliflower fried rice and stir it often. This keeps it from sticking. Heat it for about 5-7 minutes until warm. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway to ensure even warming.
Freezing Tips
If you want to store it longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled fried rice in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned earlier for the best taste.
FAQs
What is Cauliflower Fried Rice?
Cauliflower fried rice is a healthy twist on traditional fried rice. Instead of using rice, we use grated cauliflower. This dish packs in veggies and protein, making it a nutritious choice. You can enjoy it as a main dish or a side.
How can I make Cauliflower Fried Rice vegan?
To make cauliflower fried rice vegan, skip the eggs. You can add tofu for protein instead. Firm tofu works best. Just cube it and cook it in the skillet with the veggies. It adds great texture and flavor.
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower rice. It saves time and is convenient. Just thaw it first and then add it to your skillet. Cook it for a shorter time, so it stays firm and doesn’t get mushy.
What are the health benefits of Cauliflower Fried Rice?
Cauliflower fried rice is low in carbs and high in nutrients. It is rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. This dish can help with weight loss and digestion. Plus, it’s a great way to add more veggies to your diet.
How do I make Cauliflower Fried Rice spicy?
To add spice, include chili flakes or sriracha. You can also add fresh peppers for heat. Adjust the amount to your taste. Start with a little, then add more if you like it spicier. Enjoy the kick!
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious cauliflower fried rice. We started with essential ingredients, learned step-by-step cooking methods, and shared helpful tips for great texture and flavor. You can also try different vegetable and protein options to mix things up. Remember to store leftovers properly and follow simple reheating methods. Cauliflower fried rice is a tasty, healthy choice for any meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure and feel free to customize each dish to your tast
Cauliflower Fried Rice
A healthy and delicious alternative to traditional fried rice made with cauliflower.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal
- 1 medium head cauliflower, grated or pulsed into rice-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and bell peppers)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 stalks green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a healthier option)
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Prepare the Cauliflower: Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower, then cut it into florets. Using a food processor, pulse the florets until they resemble rice grains. Set aside.
Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Add Mixed Vegetables: Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften.
Scramble the Eggs: Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Stir gently, allowing the eggs to scramble and cook through.
Combine Cauliflower Rice: Add the grated cauliflower to the skillet, stirring everything together. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to soften but not become mushy.
Season: Add the soy sauce, grated ginger, and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Mix well to incorporate all flavors.
Finish with Green Onions: Stir in the sliced green onions, cooking for another 2 minutes. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with additional green onion or sesame seeds, if desired.
For a healthier option, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Keyword cauliflower, fried rice, healthy, vegetarian
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?