Ingredients
Here’s the beauty of this recipe: it’s made with simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Essential Ingredients:
- Cauliflower: One medium head of cauliflower, riced (or store-bought cauliflower rice for convenience).
- Vegetables: Carrots, peas, and green onions for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Eggs: To add that signature fried rice texture and protein boost.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce for flavor. You can also use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Sesame Oil: Adds depth and a nutty aroma.
- Garlic and Ginger: Fresh and finely minced for a punch of flavor.
- Protein (Optional): Chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even tempeh if you want to make it more filling.
How to Prepare Cauliflower Rice
What Is Cauliflower Rice, and How Do You Make It?
Cauliflower rice is simply cauliflower that’s been finely chopped into small, rice-like pieces. It’s the foundation of this recipe and incredibly easy to prepare.
Option 1: Use a Food Processor
- Chop the cauliflower into florets.
- Pulse in a food processor until it resembles grains of rice. Be careful not to over-process; you want a rice-like texture, not mush.
Option 2: Grate by Hand
- Use a box grater with medium holes to grate the cauliflower florets. This method works just as well if you don’t have a food processor.
Option 3: Store-Bought Cauliflower Rice
- Short on time? Many grocery stores carry pre-riced cauliflower in the produce or frozen aisle.
Once your cauliflower is ready, you’re one step closer to fried rice perfection.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cauliflower Fried Rice
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a quick, delicious dish:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, chop all your veggies, whisk the eggs, and have your sauces ready. Prepping everything beforehand makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
2. Sauté the Veggies
Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Toss in the carrots and peas, stirring frequently until slightly softened.
3. Cook the Eggs
Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Add the whisked eggs to the other side and scramble them until fully cooked. Mix the eggs and veggies together.
4. Add the Cauliflower Rice
Stir in the cauliflower rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
5. Flavor It Up
Drizzle soy sauce over the mixture and stir well. For extra flavor, add a splash of sesame oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like spice.
6. Add Protein (Optional)
If you’re using cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, stir it in at this stage. Let everything heat through.
7. Garnish and Serve
Top your cauliflower fried rice with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. Serve hot and enjoy!