Cauliflower Power Fried Rice Your New Weeknight Hero
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Cauliflower Power Fried Rice: Your New Weeknight Hero
Fancy something tasty, quick, and healthy ish? Are you also into veggie fried rice with cauliflower ? Honestly, who isn't these days? This recipe is about to become your new best mate.
The sweet soy sauce and the crunchy veggies make it dead good.
What’s the Story Behind This Fried Rice Cauliflower ?
This isn't just any vegetarian fried rice recipe . It's inspired by classic Chinese takeaway. But it is way better for you.
Think of it as a deconstructed takeaway. Healthier and fresher. It is dead simple to make. It’s also beginner friendly! Plus, this recipe is a breeze.
Prep time takes about 20 minutes. Cooking time is around 15 minutes.
This cauliflower fried rice recipe serves 4. It is perfect for a quick family dinner.
Why You'll Love This Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe
This dish is jam-packed with veggies. It's a cracking way to get your five-a-day. Plus, it is a lighter alternative to regular fried rice.
This makes it a winner. Honestly, it’s great for a busy weeknight. Or a lazy weekend lunch. What makes this really special? Well, we swap out some of the rice for cauliflower rice .
It's a sneaky way to add extra nutrients. Think of it as a healthy side dish disguised as a main course.
It´s an Asian Inspired Vegetarian Meal easy and tasty.
Ready to get started? First, you'll need some cauliflower. And some rice. And some other tasty bits. Let's get down to it.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!
Ready to whip up some amazing veggie fried rice with cauliflower ? First, let's gather our bits and bobs. Trust me, once you've got everything prepped, it all comes together super fast.
It’s one of my favourite healthy side dishes .
Main Ingredients: Your Shopping List
Here's the lowdown on what you'll need. Accurate measurements are key, so grab your measuring cups and spoons.
- Cauliflower Rice: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets (approx. 700g / 1.5 lbs ). Make sure the cauliflower is firm. No one wants soggy rice!
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ) for that lovely sauté.
- Seasoning for cauliflower: 1/4 teaspoon salt ( 1.5g ), 1/4 teaspoon black pepper ( 1.5g ).
- Sesame Oil: 2 tablespoons ( 30 ml ). Don't skimp, it's crucial for that authentic flavour.
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped (approx. 150g / 5.3 oz ).
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (approx. 6g / 0.2 oz ). Fresh is always best!
- Ginger: 1 inch, grated (approx. 6g / 0.2 oz ).
- Frozen Peas and Carrots Mix: 1 cup ( 150g / 5.3 oz ). Easy peasy!
- Red Bell Pepper: 1 , diced (approx. 150g / 5.3 oz ).
- Rice: 2 cups cooked and cooled long grain rice (approx. 400g / 14.1 oz ). Honestly, day-old rice is the secret weapon here. It prevents it from becoming mushy!
- Eggs: 2 large, lightly beaten (approx. 100g / 3.5 oz ).
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons low-sodium ( 30 ml ). Go easy on the salt, nobody wants a salty surprise!
- Oyster Sauce: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ). Adds a real depth of flavour.
- Rice Vinegar: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml ).
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 teaspoon ( 2g ).
- Scallions: 1/4 cup chopped (approx. 25g / 0.9 oz ). For garnish, of course.
- Sesame Seeds: To sprinkle on top (optional).
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Bombs!
Ginger and garlic are the dream team. Seriously, they make everything better. If you're out of oyster sauce, try a dash of molasses with soy sauce.
Adds a similar richness. For a veggie twist, try Hoisin.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
Okay, you don't need a fancy kitchen for this. I promise!
- Food Processor (or Box Grater): To make that riced cauliflower fried rice , obvs.
- Large Skillet or Wok: This is where the magic happens.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring like a pro.
That's it! Nothing too scary. Now get out there and make some cauliflower fried rice . It will give you amazing Asian inspired vegetarian meals . You got this!
Cauliflower Power Fried Rice: Your New Weeknight Hero
Honestly, you guys, sometimes I just crave takeaway. But that takeout guilt? Ugh. That's why I'm obsessed with this veggie fried rice with cauliflower.
It's like the real deal, but secretly healthy. The secret to veggie fried rice with cauliflower is to use day-old rice so it gets crispy.
We're talking flavour central, folks! It's got that classic Asian Inspired Vegetarian Meals vibe, and its way healthier and faster than ordering in. It's the ultimate comfort food, amped up with goodness.
Prep Like a Pro
- Essential Mise en Place: Chop your onion and red bell pepper , mince the garlic and ginger , and get that cauliflower ready to rice. Basically, have everything ready to go before you even turn on the hob. This recipe is fast so you need to be faster.
- Time Saving Organization: If you're super organized, chop all the veggies the night before. Or grab pre-riced cauliflower from the shops!
- Safety Reminders: You know the drill - watch that hot oil and don't cut yourself. Easy peasy!
Stir Fry Masterclass: step-by-step
- Make the Cauliflower Rice: Pulse 1.5 lbs cauliflower florets in a food processor. Sauté with 1 tbsp olive oil, 0.25 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp pepper.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tbsp sesame oil. Cook chopped onion until soft. Add minced garlic and ginger , cook till fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Add 5.3 oz frozen peas and carrots, and diced 5.3 oz red bell pepper. Cook till tender crisp.
- Cook the Egg: Push veggies aside. Pour in 2 beaten eggs and scramble.
- Combine and Season: Add 14.1 oz cooked rice and sautéed cauliflower rice. Break up rice clumps.
- Add Sauce: Mix 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tsp rice vinegar, and 0.1 oz brown sugar. Pour over rice and toss.
- Cook Through: Stir frequently until heated and coated, about 5 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with 0.9 oz scallions and sesame seeds. Serve this Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipes immediately.
Cauliflower Fried Rice: Pro Tips for the Win
- Day-Old Rice is Key: Use day-old rice. It’s less sticky and fries up better. Honestly, this is a game changer!
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan means steamy, sad fried rice. Cook in batches if you need to. This is for sure a very common mistake, so don't do that!
- make-ahead Magic: Chop all your veggies beforehand or make the cauliflower rice ahead of time to save time. Hello, Healthy Side Dishes !
Seriously, this Cauliflower Fried Rice is a winner. It’s quick, easy, and a great way to sneak in extra veggies.
Plus, it’s way cheaper than ordering in, and you know exactly what's going into it. Give it a whirl, and let me know what you think! I swear, this will become one of your favourite Cauliflower Recipes .
Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Cauliflower Power Fried Rice
Alright, let's talk shop about this veggie fried rice with cauliflower . It’s more than just a recipe, it's a blank canvas for your culinary genius! Honestly, I've made this dish so many times, and I'm still finding new ways to tweak it.
So, here are a few tips and tricks I've picked up along the way.
Plating Like a Pro & Perfect Pairings
Presentation matters, you know? When I'm feeling fancy, I like to serve this Cauliflower Fried Rice in a bowl. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and some extra scallions.
Looks amazing! For sides, think crispy spring rolls or a light miso soup. Want a flavor explosion? A ginger lime dressing drizzled on top is chef's kiss .
Storing Like a Boss
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This fried rice cauliflower keeps well. Pop it in an airtight container and it'll be grand in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, just microwave it or give it a quick toss in a pan. Freezing isn't ideal, as the texture can change.
But honestly, it's so yummy, you probably won't have any leftovers!
Remixing It: Veggie Fried Rice Your Way
Fancy a change? This recipe is super adaptable. Make it Low Carb Fried Rice by using entirely Riced Cauliflower Fried Rice instead of rice.
For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha. Need more protein? Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Honestly, use whatever veggies you have in the fridge. Got some leftover broccoli? Bung it in! Feel free to swap out the frozen peas and carrots mix for other vegetables like broccoli florets, mushrooms, or snap peas.
If you don't have oyster sauce, use a little extra soy sauce and a dash of molasses for a similar flavor profile.
A vegan hoisin sauce would also work well.
Nutrition Nuggets
So, you're wondering about the health benefits? Each serving is roughly 320 calories, 14g of protein, and 6g of fiber.
Packed with vitamins and nutrients from all those veggies. Its one of the Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipes that wont hurt your waistline.
Right then, off you pop! This veggie fried rice with cauliflower is waiting to be made. Grab your wok, get creative, and have a proper laugh in the kitchen. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use freshly cooked rice for this veggie fried rice with cauliflower?
While technically you can, it's really best to use day-old rice for the ideal texture in veggie fried rice with cauliflower. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky and will result in clumpy fried rice, a bit like trying to build a sandcastle with waterlogged sand!
Day-old rice has had a chance to dry out slightly, allowing it to fry up nicely and absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
Is there a good substitute for oyster sauce? I’m a vegetarian.
Absolutely! If you're a vegetarian, or just don't have oyster sauce on hand, you can use a vegan hoisin sauce. It offers a similar sweet and savory flavour profile. Alternatively, use a little extra low-sodium soy sauce and a dash of molasses to mimic that umami depth of flavour.
It won't be an exact match, but it'll do the trick nicely.
How long can I store leftover veggie fried rice with cauliflower?
Leftover veggie fried rice with cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools down completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation. When reheating, make sure it's piping hot all the way through to eliminate any potential bacteria.
Think of it like keeping a curry fresh - safety first!
Can I add protein to this veggie fried rice with cauliflower?
Definitely! This veggie fried rice with cauliflower is a fantastic blank canvas for extra protein. Cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even edamame would all be great additions. Simply stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat them through.
It’s a great way to make the meal even more substantial and keep those hunger pangs at bay!
My veggie fried rice with cauliflower turned out a bit soggy. What did I do wrong?
Soggy fried rice is a common kitchen woe, but easily fixed! It usually happens when the pan isn’t hot enough, the rice is too fresh (as mentioned above!), or the pan is overcrowded. Make sure your wok or skillet is screaming hot before adding ingredients. If you're cooking a large batch, cook in smaller portions.
Also, avoid adding too much sauce at once a little goes a long way.
Can I freeze veggie fried rice with cauliflower?
Yes, you can freeze veggie fried rice with cauliflower, although the texture of the rice might change slightly upon thawing. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer safe containers or bags, pressing out any excess air. For best results, use within 2-3 months.
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out. It's a lifesaver for quick weeknight dinners!
Cauliflower Power Fried Rice Your New Weeknight
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 320 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 6g |