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Best Ever Quick & Easy Cauliflower Fried Rice (Better Than Takeout)

A mound of colorful cauliflower fried rice mixed with scrambled egg, bright orange carrots, and green peas served on a white plate.

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You need a light, satisfying dinner option, and this simple Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe gives you just that. Learn the technique to get perfectly textured cauliflower rice that tastes just like the takeout version you love. This recipe is perfect when you want lower-carb meals without sacrificing any satisfying flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or sesame oil
  • 1 cup cooked, cooled chicken or shrimp (optional, for protein)
  • 1 medium head cauliflower, riced (about 4 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten free)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower rice. If using fresh cauliflower, pulse florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains. Do not over-process into a paste.
  2. If using protein (chicken or shrimp), cook it first in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until done. Remove the protein and set it aside.
  3. Add the olive oil to the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the diced carrots and cook for 3 minutes until slightly softened. Add the frozen peas and cook for 1 minute more.
  5. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs onto the empty side and scramble until just set. Break the eggs into small pieces and mix with the vegetables.
  6. Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet. Stir fry for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cauliflower softens slightly but still holds its shape. This step is key to achieving the right texture.
  7. Return the cooked protein (if using) to the skillet. Add the soy sauce (or tamari) and toasted sesame oil. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through, about 1 minute.
  8. Stir in the white pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions. This is a great low calorie fried rice option for meal prep.

Notes

  • To achieve the best texture that mimics real rice, cook the cauliflower rice over medium-high heat until most of the moisture has evaporated. Do not cover the pan while cooking the cauliflower.
  • For a Whole30 or Keto cauliflower rice version, substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos.
  • If you want a shrimp cauliflower fried rice or chicken fried cauliflower rice, use 1 cup of cooked shrimp or diced chicken breast.

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