Cauliflower Fried Rice | Low-Carb 15-Minute Dinner

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When life gets busy, you need meals that are quick, healthy, and delicious. Enter Cauliflower Fried Rice | Low-Carb 15-Minute Dinner, a dish that checks all the boxes. This recipe is perfect if you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice without sacrificing flavor. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

Why You’ll Love Cauliflower Fried Rice

  • Low-Carb and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and fiber, it’s a guilt-free meal.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it your own.
  • Family-Friendly: A dish that’s healthy yet loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Cauliflower Fried Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to create this quick and delicious dinner:

IngredientAmount
Cauliflower (small head)1 or 1 (10- to 12-oz.) bag pre-riced
Reduced-sodium soy sauce3 Tbsp.
Mirin2 Tbsp.
Granulated sugar1 tsp.
Neutral oil (e.g., canola)1/4 cup
Shallots (thinly sliced)2
Large eggs2, beaten
Carrot (matchstick-cut)1
Garlic (finely chopped)3 cloves
Frozen peas1/2 cup
Kosher saltTo taste
Freshly ground black pepperTo taste
Scallions (thinly sliced)2
Sesame seeds (optional)For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Cauliflower

  1. If using a whole cauliflower, cut it into florets. Pulse the florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains. Skip this step if using pre-riced cauliflower.
  2. Place the riced cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture. This ensures your fried rice won’t turn soggy.

2. Make the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Set the mixture aside.

3. Cook the Shallots

  1. Heat 3 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the sliced shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown (1-2 minutes).
  3. Remove the shallots with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of oil in the skillet.

4. Scramble the Eggs

  1. In the same skillet, pour in the beaten eggs and cook over medium-high heat.
  2. Stir occasionally until the eggs are scrambled (about 30 seconds). Transfer the eggs to a small bowl and set aside.

5. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  1. Add the carrots, garlic, and frozen peas to the skillet. Stir frequently until the vegetables are heated through (about 30 seconds).
  2. Add the prepared cauliflower rice and mix everything together. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 minutes until the cauliflower softens slightly.

6. Combine Everything

  1. Increase the heat to high and pour in the reserved sauce. Stir frequently, letting the sauce coat the vegetables and rice evenly. Cook until most of the liquid evaporates (about 1 minute).
  2. Stir in the scrambled eggs and season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Garnish and Serve

  1. Divide the fried rice among bowls.
  2. Top with crispy shallots, sliced scallions, and sesame seeds, if using.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Dry Your Cauliflower: Removing moisture is key to achieving a texture similar to traditional fried rice.
  • Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures everything sautés quickly without becoming mushy.
  • Customize Ingredients: Add proteins like tofu, shrimp, or chicken to make the dish heartier.
  • Double the Sauce: If you prefer a saucier fried rice, double the soy sauce mixture.

Nutritional Information

NutrientAmount Per Serving
Calories~200
Protein8g
Carbohydrates12g
Fats14g
Fiber4g
Sodium400m

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the eggs with scrambled tofu and use a vegan-friendly sweetener in the sauce.


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2. What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra variety and flavor.

3. Can I prepare cauliflower rice ahead of time?

Yes! Store prepared cauliflower rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

4. How do I prevent the fried rice from being soggy?

Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the cauliflower before cooking.

5. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas work just as well. Cook them for an extra minute to ensure they’re tender.

6. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Conclusion: Make Cauliflower Fried Rice Tonight!

This Cauliflower Fried Rice | Low-Carb 15-Minute Dinner is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or complicated. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a side dish that impresses, this recipe has you covered.

Gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy a bowl of guilt-free deliciousness. Ready to make this your new favorite dinner? Let’s get cooking!


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Cauliflower Fried Rice | Low-Carb 15-Minute Dinner


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  • Author: Clara
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Craving fried rice without the carbs? This Cauliflower Fried Rice is a quick, healthy, and delicious alternative that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Packed with veggies, protein, and flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a light yet satisfying meal.


Ingredients

  • 1 small head of cauliflower or 1 (10- to 12-ounce) bag of pre-riced cauliflower
  • 3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mirin
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup neutral oil (e.g., canola oil)
  • 2 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 carrot, matchstick-cut
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • ½ cup frozen peas
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Prep the Cauliflower:
    • If using a whole cauliflower, cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice grains.
    • Place the riced cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
  • Make the Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.
  • Cook the Shallots:
    • Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
    • Add the sliced shallots and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until golden brown.
    • Remove the shallots with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave 1 tablespoon of oil in the skillet.
  • Scramble the Eggs:
    • Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until scrambled (about 30 seconds).
    • Transfer the eggs to a bowl and set aside.
  • Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
    • Add the carrots, garlic, and peas to the skillet. Stir frequently for about 30 seconds until heated through.
    • Stir in the prepared cauliflower rice and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is slightly softened.
  • Combine Everything:
    • Increase the heat to high and pour in the sauce. Stir well to coat the rice and vegetables evenly.
    • Cook for about 1 minute until most of the liquid evaporates.
    • Stir in the scrambled eggs and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Garnish and Serve:
    • Divide the cauliflower fried rice among bowls.
    • Top with crispy shallots, sliced scallions, and sesame seeds, if desired.
    • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Dry the Cauliflower Thoroughly: This helps avoid soggy fried rice.
  • Add Protein: Incorporate tofu, shrimp, chicken, or beef for a heartier meal.
  • Customize Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini make great additions.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Side Dish
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

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