Cauliflower Fried Rice
A delightful, low-carb twist on traditional fried rice, packed with vegetables and protein, making it a fantastic choice for healthy dining.
Unforgettable Cauliflower Fried Rice
Cauliflower Fried Rice is a delightful twist on traditional fried rice. If you’re on a health kick or just looking to incorporate more veggies into your meals, this dish is for you! This recipe brings together a colorful medley of vegetables and protein, making it a hearty and satisfying choice for any day of the week. I found that it not only appeals to my taste buds but also checks off the boxes for quick and healthy dining.
Reasons to try it
You might be wondering why you should embark on making this Cauliflower Fried Rice. Firstly, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in more vegetables without sacrificing flavor. The dish is low-carb, making it perfect for anyone following a ketogenic diet or simply trying to eat healthier. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that will please the entire family. What’s more? It’s completely customizable based on your preferences or what’s in the fridge!
Preparing Cauliflower Fried Rice
Before you dive into cooking, let’s break down the process into manageable steps. This ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed and can enjoy the time spent in the kitchen.
- Sauté the chicken.
- Cook the eggs.
- Prepare the cauliflower rice.
- Stir-fry the vegetables and combine all the components.
With these steps in mind, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started!
Gather these items
To make your Cauliflower Fried Rice, you’ll need the following:
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 1 large chicken breast (about 10oz/300g)
- 4 eggs
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper
- 4 spring onions
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tsp grated ginger
- 1-2 tsp ají amarillo (optional)
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce
Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp if you’d like a different protein source!
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s get right into cooking this fantastic dish.
Heat the pans: Start by heating a large heavy-bottom pan that has a lid over medium heat. Then, heat a regular-sized pan over medium heat as well.
Season the chicken: Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides.
Whisk the eggs: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cook the chicken: When the large pan is very hot, add a splash of oil and immediately place the chicken breast in. Fry for one minute on each side, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Set a timer for 10 minutes without lifting the lid!
Prepare the eggs: Add a splash of oil to the hot regular pan, then pour in the whisked eggs. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2.5 minutes, flip, and cook for another minute. Once done, remove from the pan and cut into small squares.
Rice the cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into florets and wash thoroughly. In a food processor, pulse until you get rice-sized bits. Set aside.
Vegetable prep: When the timer goes off for the chicken, do not peek! Just let it sit for another 10 minutes. Meanwhile, peel and dice the carrots, chop the bell peppers, and slice the spring onions.
Finish the dish: After the chicken has rested, remove it from the pan, cut it into small cubes, and return the large pan to the burner. Add a splash of oil, then throw in the chopped carrots, the white part of the spring onions, garlic, ginger, and ají amarillo if using. Stir-fry for 2 minutes, then add the cauliflower rice and bell peppers. Stir-fry for another 3 minutes, then mix in the chicken, egg, and soy sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes and sprinkle with remaining spring onions.
Now, dig in and enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
01Ingredients
Main ingredients
02Method
- Preparation
- Cooking
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0 OF 11 DONE03Recipe notes
- 01For better texture, consider cooking the cauliflower rice in batches. You can also add sesame oil or chili flakes for an extra kick.
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Best ways to enjoy it
There are various serving options for your Cauliflower Fried Rice. Consider dish it up in colorful bowls for a family style service, or serve it in a large platter garnished with fresh herbs. For a unique flair, pair it with crispy baked tofu or serve alongside a fresh cucumber salad for a delightful contrast.
How to store
If you find yourself with leftovers (not likely, but who knows?), follow these storage tips to keep them fresh. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option; just use a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to three months. Always ensure the dish is completely cooled before freezing to avoid ice crystals.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to make this dish your own! Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian version. Add in leftover vegetables or try different sauces like teriyaki for a new taste. You can even experiment with spices, such as curry powder for an Indian twist!
Your questions answered
If you’re new to making Cauliflower Fried Rice, you may have some questions:
How long does it take to prep?
The total time to prep and cook this dish is about 30 minutes.
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Absolutely! Just skip the ricing step and add it straight to the stir-fry.
Is it easy to make ahead?
Yes, you can make this ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat. Just ensure it’s thoroughly heated.
Conclusion
Cauliflower Fried Rice is a versatile, healthy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to satisfy. For more ideas, check out Iowa Girl Eats. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Crockpot & Slow Cooker
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