Introduction
Cauliflower Fried Rice is a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional fried rice, offering a vibrant mix of flavors and textures. Packed with vegetables and enhanced with umami-rich ingredients, this dish is not only nourishing but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons tamari
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
2 teaspoons avocado oil
8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced
1 large carrot, diced
¼ teaspoon sea salt
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 tablespoon chopped fresh ginger
¼ cup chopped kimchi
1 small head of cauliflower, riced
1 bunch scallions, chopped
2 eggs, beaten
½ cup frozen edamame
1½ teaspoons fresh lime juice
Fried eggs, for topping (optional)
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Microgreens, for garnish
Sriracha, for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, tamari, and sesame oil. Set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Heat the avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the shiitake mushrooms, diced carrot, and sea salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Aromatics and Kimchi: Stir in the chopped garlic, fresh ginger, and chopped kimchi. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Incorporate Cauliflower Rice and Scallions: Add the riced cauliflower and chopped scallions to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cook the Eggs: Create a well in the center of the skillet by pushing the cauliflower mixture to the sides. Pour the beaten eggs into the well. Stir to scramble the eggs, then mix them into the cauliflower rice mixture.
6. Add Sauce and Edamame: Pour the prepared tamari mixture over the cauliflower rice. Add the frozen edamame and cook for a few more minutes until the edamame is heated through.
7. Finish with Lime Juice: Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve: Portion the cauliflower fried rice onto plates. If desired, top each serving with a fried egg. Garnish with sesame seeds and microgreens. Serve with sriracha on the side for added heat.
Enjoy your flavorful and veggie-packed Cauliflower Fried Rice!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, tamari, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
Heat the avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the shiitake mushrooms, diced carrot, and sea salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Add Aromatics and Kimchi
Stir in the chopped garlic, fresh ginger, and chopped kimchi. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Incorporate Cauliflower Rice and Scallions
Add the riced cauliflower and chopped scallions to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Cook the Eggs
Create a well in the center of the skillet by pushing the cauliflower mixture to the sides. Pour the beaten eggs into the well. Stir to scramble the eggs, then mix them into the cauliflower rice mixture.
Add Sauce and Edamame
Pour the prepared tamari mixture over the cauliflower rice. Add the frozen edamame and cook for a few more minutes until the edamame is heated through.
Finish with Lime Juice
Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve
Portion the cauliflower fried rice onto plates. If desired, top each serving with a fried egg. Garnish with sesame seeds and microgreens. Serve with sriracha on the side for added heat.
Notes
Ingredient Quality
Using fresh vegetables and high-quality ingredients will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Variations
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Storage
Leftover cauliflower fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with additional sides such as grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Sauce
Mix rice vinegar, tamari, and sesame oil in a small bowl and set aside to let flavors meld.
Cooking the Vegetables
Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat, adding mushrooms, carrot, and sea salt until softened.
Adding Aromatics and Kimchi
Incorporate garlic, ginger, and kimchi into the skillet and cook briefly until fragrant.
Incorporating Cauliflower Rice and Scallions
Add riced cauliflower and scallions to the mixture in the skillet, stirring well to combine.
Cooking the Eggs
Create a well in the mixture center, pour in beaten eggs, scramble, and mix them in with the cauliflower.
Adding Sauce and Edamame
Pour the prepared tamari sauce over the mixture, adding frozen edamame and cook until heated.
Finishing with Lime Juice
Stir in fresh lime juice and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving
Portion onto plates, optionally top with a fried egg, and garnish with sesame seeds, microgreens, and sriracha.
FAQ
Can I substitute the tamari with soy sauce?
Yes, soy sauce can be used in place of tamari, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
Is there a vegan option for this dish?
Yes, you can skip the eggs and use tofu or simply add extra veggies.
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Absolutely! Frozen cauliflower rice is a convenient alternative that works well.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I add other vegetables to this fried rice?
Yes, feel free to include any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers or peas.
Conclusion
Cauliflower Fried Rice is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried rice, packed with nutrients and flavors. This recipe is simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and proteins. Enjoying this dish will not only satisfy your taste buds but also contribute to a well-balanced diet.
Cauliflower and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Combine riced cauliflower with broccoli florets, bell peppers, and a splash of soy sauce for a colorful and nutritious stir-fry.
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Tofu
Add cubed, seasoned tofu to the cauliflower fried rice during the last few minutes of cooking for a protein boost.
Spicy Cauliflower Fried Rice
Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes for an extra kick in this flavorful dish.
Curried Cauliflower Rice Bowl
Mix in curry powder and peas along with the cauliflower for a unique and aromatic twist on fried rice.
Vegetable Cauliflower Rice Soup
Transform the fried rice into a comforting soup by adding vegetable broth and extra vegetables like spinach and zucchini.
Cauliflower Fried Rice Burritos
Wrap the cauliflower fried rice in a whole-grain tortilla with additional fresh veggies and avocado for a satisfying burrito option.
