Description

Craving a healthy, vibrant meal that’s both vegetarian and gluten-free? The Cauliflower Fried Rice, rated 5 from 9 votes, is your answer! This low-carb dish swaps traditional rice for riced cauliflower, combining it with shiitake mushrooms, kimchi, and a tangy tamari-sesame sauce for a savory, nutty flavor explosion.

Ingredients

To make Cauliflower Fried Rice for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this healthy dish:

Rice Vinegar (2 tbsp): Adds tangy acidity to the sauce.
Tamari (2 tbsp): Provides savory, umami flavor (gluten-free soy sauce alternative).
Toasted Sesame Oil (2 tsp): Brings nutty, aromatic depth.
Avocado Oil (2 tsp): Used for cooking, with a high smoke point.
Shiitake Mushrooms (8 oz, stemmed and sliced): Adds meaty, umami-rich texture.
Carrot (1 large, diced): Brings sweetness and crunch.
Sea Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances overall flavor.
Garlic Cloves (2, chopped): Provides aromatic depth.
Fresh Ginger (1 tbsp, chopped): Adds zesty, spicy warmth.
Kimchi (¼ cup, chopped): Brings tangy, spicy fermented flavor.
Cauliflower (1 small head, riced): Low-carb base mimicking rice.
Scallions (1 bunch, chopped): Adds fresh, oniony flavor.
Eggs (2, beaten): Provides protein and texture.
Frozen Edamame (½ cup): Adds protein and a tender bite.
Fresh Lime Juice (1½ tsp): Brings bright, citrusy freshness.
Fried Eggs (optional, for topping): Adds extra protein and richness.
Sesame Seeds (for garnish): Provides crunch and visual appeal.
Microgreens (for garnish): Adds a delicate, colorful touch.
Sriracha (for serving): Offers optional heat.

Substitutions and Variations:

Cauliflower: Use store-bought riced cauliflower (about 4 cups) for convenience.
Mushrooms: Swap shiitake with cremini, button, or oyster mushrooms.
Kimchi: Replace with pickled veggies or omit for a milder flavor; add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Tamari: Use soy sauce (if not gluten-free) or coconut aminos for a milder taste.
Edamame: Swap with frozen peas, green beans, or diced zucchini.
Vegan: Omit eggs and use a vegan egg substitute or extra veggies.
Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free; ensure tamari is certified gluten-free (check labels).
Protein Boost: Add tofu, shrimp (non-vegetarian), or chickpeas.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The riced cauliflower provides a low-carb base, while shiitake mushrooms and kimchi add umami and tang. The tamari-sesame sauce ties it together with savory, nutty flavors, and garnishes add freshness, making this a balanced, vegetarian meal perfect for any occasion.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp tamari, and 2 tsp toasted sesame oil. Set aside.

Tip: Whisk well to combine for an even flavor distribution.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 tsp avocado oil over medium heat.
Add 8 oz sliced shiitake mushrooms, 1 diced large carrot, and ¼ tsp sea salt.
Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes, until softened.

Tip: Dice carrots small for quick cooking and even texture; stir to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Cauliflower

Stir in 2 chopped garlic cloves, 1 tbsp chopped fresh ginger, and ¼ cup chopped kimchi.
Add 1 small head of cauliflower (riced, about 4 cups) and 1 bunch chopped scallions.
Stir to combine, spreading the mixture evenly in the skillet.

Tip: To rice cauliflower, pulse florets in a food processor until rice-sized or use pre-riced cauliflower.

Step 4: Cook the Eggs

Make a well in the center of the skillet and pour in 2 beaten eggs.
Stir to scramble the eggs, then mix them into the cauliflower rice mixture.

Tip: Scramble eggs quickly to keep them soft and distribute evenly.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Add the tamari mixture and ½ cup frozen edamame.
Cook, stirring, until the edamame is heated through, about 1–2 minutes.
Turn off the heat and stir in 1½ tsp fresh lime juice.
Season to taste with additional salt or tamari, if needed.

Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning to balance the tangy, savory flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Portion the cauliflower fried rice onto plates.
Top with fried eggs (if using), a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and microgreens.
Serve with sriracha on the side for extra heat.

Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant textures and flavors at their best.