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Cauliflower Fried Rice Bowl


  • Author: Jessica

Ingredients

Scale

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful and healthy Cauliflower Fried Rice Bowl:

  • 1 large head Cauliflower (approx. 800g-1kg): Riced. This forms the low-carb base of our bowl, replacing traditional rice. You’ll need about 46 cups of riced cauliflower.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil provides that signature nutty aroma and flavor crucial for authentic fried rice taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Avocado Oil (or other high-heat oil): Used for sautéing; avocado oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion: Finely chopped (about 1 cup). Adds a foundational savory sweetness.
  • 23 cloves Garlic: Minced. Essential aromatic for depth of flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger: Grated or finely minced. Provides a warm, zesty kick.
  • 1 cup Carrots: Small diced or shredded. Adds color, sweetness, and a slight crunch.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas: No need to thaw. Adds pops of sweetness and color. Corn can also be used or added.
  • 1/2 cup Green Onions: Thinly sliced, whites and greens separated. Whites are sautéed for flavor; greens are used for garnish.
  • 2 Large Eggs: Lightly beaten. Creates pockets of tender scrambled egg throughout the dish, adding protein and texture. (Optional for vegan version).
  • 1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free): The primary source of salty, umami flavor. Use Tamari for a gluten-free option or Coconut Aminos for a soy-free/paleo alternative (adjust quantity as needed).
  • 1 teaspoon Rice Vinegar (optional): Adds a subtle tang to balance the flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground preferred, for a touch of spice.
  • Optional Protein: 1 cup cooked chicken (diced), shrimp (peeled and deveined), tofu (cubed and pressed), or edamame (shelled). Choose your favorite or keep it vegetarian.
  • Optional Garnishes: Toasted sesame seeds, extra sliced green onions, cilantro sprigs, Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for heat.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the perfect Cauliflower Fried Rice Bowl every time:

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower Rice: Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower head. Remove the core and tough outer leaves. Cut the cauliflower into large florets. Working in batches (to avoid overcrowding), pulse the florets in a food processor until they resemble coarse grains of rice. Be careful not to over-process, or you’ll end up with mush. Alternatively, use the large holes of a box grater. Set the riced cauliflower aside. If using pre-riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen), ensure any excess moisture is removed, especially from frozen varieties (pat dry with paper towels).
  2. Prepare Other Ingredients: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, dice the carrots, and slice the green onions (separating whites and greens). If using protein like chicken or shrimp, ensure it’s cooked and ready. If using tofu, press it well and cube it; you might want to pan-fry or bake it beforehand for better texture. Lightly beat the eggs in a small bowl. Measure out the soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Having everything prepped (“mise en place”) makes the cooking process smooth and fast.
  3. Scramble the Eggs (If Using): Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add about 1 teaspoon of the avocado oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble quickly until just cooked through (about 30-60 seconds). Don’t overcook them. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
  4. Sauté Aromatics and Hard Vegetables: Add the remaining avocado oil (about 2 teaspoons) to the hot skillet. Add the chopped yellow onion and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions begin to soften and become translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the diced carrots and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until they start to become tender-crisp.
  5. Cook the Cauliflower Rice: Increase the heat slightly to high. Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet. This is a crucial step: spread the cauliflower rice in an even layer and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to allow some moisture to evaporate and get a slight sear. This helps prevent sogginess. Then, stir-fry, tossing frequently, for about 5-7 minutes. The goal is tender-crisp cauliflower rice, not mushy. It should still have a slight bite. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will steam the cauliflower instead of frying it.
  6. Add Remaining Vegetables and Sauce: Create a well in the center of the cauliflower rice. Add the frozen peas (and cooked protein, if using) to the well and stir them around for a minute or two to heat through. Pour the low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos), toasted sesame oil, and optional rice vinegar over the mixture. Add the black pepper.
  7. Combine Everything: Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the cauliflower rice and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce. Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through and meld with the other ingredients.
  8. Fold in Eggs and Green Onions: Gently fold the cooked scrambled eggs back into the cauliflower fried rice. Stir in most of the green parts of the sliced green onions, reserving some for garnish. Give it one final toss.
  9. Taste and Adjust: Taste the cauliflower fried rice and adjust seasonings if necessary. You might want a bit more soy sauce for saltiness, a dash more sesame oil for nuttiness, or a pinch of pepper.
  10. Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Divide the Cauliflower Fried Rice among bowls. Garnish with the reserved sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and any other desired toppings like cilantro or a drizzle of Sriracha. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 400
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 15g