If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful, and easy-to-make vegetarian dish, this Cauliflower Fried Rice recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with vibrant vegetables and the goodness of cauliflower, it’s a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe gives you all the savory satisfaction without compromising on nutrition or taste.
Cauliflower fried rice is incredibly versatile, quick to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights. The texture of riced cauliflower mimics rice beautifully, soaking up all the delicious flavors of garlic, soy sauce, and fresh veggies.
Plus, it’s gluten-free, paleo, and vegan-friendly if you skip the egg or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how to create your own fresh, colorful cauliflower fried rice at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cauliflower fried rice recipe is a game-changer for anyone wanting a nutritious yet tasty meal. Here’s why it stands out:
- Low-carb & healthy: Cauliflower provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants while keeping carbs low.
- Vegetarian & vegan-friendly: Easily adaptable for all dietary preferences.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy lifestyles.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or add tofu for protein.
- Flavor-packed: A perfect balance of savory, umami, and fresh notes with minimal ingredients.
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies for the whole family without anyone noticing!
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 4 cups riced)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as diced carrots, peas, and bell peppers)
- 2 large eggs (optional for vegetarians; use tofu scramble for vegans)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: toasted sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, or chili flakes
Equipment
- Food processor or box grater (to rice the cauliflower)
- Large non-stick skillet or wok
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl (for eggs or tofu scramble)
Instructions
- Rice the cauliflower: Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower. Cut into florets and pulse in a food processor until the texture resembles rice grains. If you don’t have a processor, grate the cauliflower using a box grater.
- Prepare the scramble (optional): Beat the eggs in a bowl. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in the skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until just set. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Sauté the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Add grated ginger and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Cook vegetables: Toss in the mixed vegetables and sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Add cauliflower rice: Stir in the riced cauliflower. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cauliflower softens but does not become mushy.
- Season: Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
- Combine scramble: Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and stir to combine. If vegan, add tofu scramble or omit entirely.
- Finish with green onions: Stir in sliced green onions. Cook for an additional minute.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds, cilantro, or chili flakes as desired. Serve hot.
Tips & Variations
“For the best texture, avoid overcooking the cauliflower rice. It should be tender yet slightly firm to resemble traditional fried rice.”
- Make it vegan: Substitute eggs with crumbled firm tofu sautéed with a pinch of turmeric for color.
- Add protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas, edamame, or tempeh for an extra boost.
- Spice it up: Add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or fresh chopped chili for heat.
- Use different veggies: Try broccoli florets, snap peas, or mushrooms depending on preference and saisonal availability.
- Use fresh herbs: Cilantro, Thai basil, or mint can brighten up the dish.
- Make it nutty: Sprinkle toasted cashews or peanuts for crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 7 g |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
Fat | 10 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Vitamin A | 50% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This cauliflower fried rice can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. Pair it with crispy spring rolls, steamed dumplings, or a fresh Asian cucumber salad for a complete meal.
For additional protein, serve alongside grilled tofu skewers or a simple vegetable stir-fry. It also makes a fantastic packed lunch, served cold or reheated.
Want more vegetarian delights? Try exploring these amazing recipes:
- Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners
- Recipes with Spinach Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas
- Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners
Conclusion
Cauliflower fried rice is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy twist. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to add more vegetables and plant-based meals to their diet.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a light lunch, offering a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.
By using fresh, wholesome ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can enjoy a dish that’s both flavorful and nourishing. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables and protein sources to keep it exciting every time you make it.
Embrace the goodness of cauliflower fried rice and make it a staple in your vegetarian recipe collection today!
📖 Recipe Card: Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A healthy and flavorful vegetarian alternative to traditional fried rice using cauliflower rice. Quick to prepare and packed with vegetables and savory seasonings.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, grated or processed into rice-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add peas and carrots; cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Push vegetables to the side; pour beaten eggs into the pan and scramble until cooked.
- Add cauliflower rice to the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Pour soy sauce and sesame oil over the mixture; stir well and cook for 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 15 g
{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe Vegetarian”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A healthy and flavorful vegetarian alternative to traditional fried rice using cauliflower rice. Quick to prepare and packed with vegetables and savory seasonings.”, “prepTime”: “PT15M”, “cookTime”: “PT10M”, “totalTime”: “PT25M”, “recipeYield”: “4 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“1 medium head cauliflower, grated or processed into rice-sized pieces”, “2 tablespoons vegetable oil”, “1 small onion, diced”, “2 cloves garlic, minced”, “1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed”, “2 large eggs, beaten”, “3 tablespoons soy sauce”, “1 teaspoon sesame oil”, “2 green onions, sliced”, “Salt and pepper to taste”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add diced onion and minced garlic; saut\u00e9 until fragrant and translucent.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add peas and carrots; cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Push vegetables to the side; pour beaten eggs into the pan and scramble until cooked.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add cauliflower rice to the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Pour soy sauce and sesame oil over the mixture; stir well and cook for 5 minutes.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Season with salt and pepper to taste.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “180 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “8 g”, “fatContent”: “10 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “15 g”}}