Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp: A Healthy Twist on a Classic Favorite

Cauliflower fried rice with shrimp is a flavorful and nutritious alternative to traditional fried rice, providing a low-carb, gluten-free, and nutrient-packed meal. Using cauliflower rice as a base instead of regular rice allows you to enjoy the savory goodness of fried rice without the added carbs. The addition of shrimp adds protein and a touch of elegance, making this dish not only a healthy choice but also a delightful and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp, including a basic recipe, advanced techniques, storage tips, and ways to adapt the dish to suit various dietary preferences. By the end, you’ll be able to recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen and enjoy the flavors of this light yet filling meal.

For more information on how to incorporate cauliflower into your meals or how to make the most out of shrimp, check out these helpful resources:

• The Health Benefits of Cauliflower: A Nutrient Powerhouse
• How to Perfectly Cook Shrimp Every Time

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp: A Healthy Low-Carb Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

This Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp is a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice, featuring cauliflower rice stir-fried with juicy shrimp, colorful vegetables, and savory seasonings. It’s quick, easy to make, and packed with flavor—perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or meal prep option. You won’t miss the carbs with this light and satisfying dish!

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Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• Shrimp (Peeled and Deveined): 1 pound (about 20-25 shrimp)
• Olive Oil or Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon (for cooking)
• Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon

For the Cauliflower Fried Rice:

• Cauliflower Rice: 4 cups (store-bought or homemade by pulsing cauliflower in a food processor)
• Olive Oil or Sesame Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic (Minced): 2 cloves
• Ginger (Grated or Minced): 1 teaspoon
• Carrots (Grated or Finely Chopped): 1/2 cup
• Frozen Peas: 1/2 cup
• Green Onion (Chopped): 2 stalks (for garnish and flavor)
• Soy Sauce or Tamari (for gluten-free option): 2-3 tablespoons (to taste)
• Eggs: 2 large (beaten)
• Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

• Prepare the shrimp:
  In a medium bowl, season the shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

• Cook the shrimp:
  Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set it aside.

• Make the cauliflower fried rice:
  In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil or sesame oil. Heat over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Cook the vegetables:
  Add the grated carrots and peas to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften.

• Add the cauliflower rice:
  Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet and stir well to combine with the vegetables. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower rice becomes tender and slightly golden.

• Scramble the eggs:
  Push the cauliflower rice mixture to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, add a little more oil if needed and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs, breaking them up with a spatula until fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.

• Combine the shrimp and seasonings:
  Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir everything together. Add the soy sauce (or tamari) and stir well to coat the ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

• Serve:
  Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve immediately as a main dish or side dish.

Notes

• Cauliflower Rice: You can buy pre-packaged cauliflower rice in most grocery stores, or make your own by pulsing fresh cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to the fried rice for more color and flavor.
• Egg-Free Version: If you want to make this dish egg-free, simply omit the eggs and use tofu or another protein in place of the shrimp.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop, Stir-Fried
• Cuisine: Asian, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 190mg

Keywords: Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp recipe

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower Rice:
   • If using a whole cauliflower, chop it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice-sized grains. Alternatively, you can use pre-packaged cauliflower rice for convenience.
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the cauliflower rice and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender. Set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   • In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat.
   • Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
   • Add the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until tender.
4. Scramble the Eggs:
   • Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs for 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
5. Combine Everything:
   • Add the cooked cauliflower rice back into the skillet along with the cooked shrimp. Stir everything together.
   • Drizzle soy sauce and rice vinegar over the mixture, then toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Garnish:
   • Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. You can also serve with additional soy sauce or hot sauce if desired.

Advanced Techniques

Creating Perfect Cauliflower Rice

To get a good texture with cauliflower rice, avoid overcooking it. It should have a slightly crispy texture similar to regular fried rice. If you’re using pre-packaged cauliflower rice, make sure to dry it out a bit in a towel to remove any excess moisture before cooking. This prevents it from becoming soggy.

Cooking Shrimp Perfectly

Shrimp cook very quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. When shrimp are overcooked, they can become rubbery and tough. For perfect shrimp, cook them until they turn pink and opaque, which should only take about 2-3 minutes per side. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.

Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients

To elevate the flavor of your cauliflower fried rice, consider adding ingredients like a splash of fish sauce, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or a few drops of toasted sesame oil. These ingredients will enhance the savory, umami-rich flavors and give the dish a more complex taste.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

How to Store Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the rice and shrimp completely before placing it in the fridge to maintain the best texture and flavor.

How to Reheat Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp

To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat. You may want to add a small splash of water or additional soy sauce to help loosen it up. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Can I Freeze It?

Yes, you can freeze cauliflower fried rice with shrimp. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in a skillet or microwave.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly

This recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it ideal for those following a keto or low-carb diet. If you’re looking for additional keto-friendly options, you can substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos, which is a low-carb alternative.

Gluten-Free Option

To make the dish gluten-free, simply replace the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Both of these options offer a similar flavor profile without the gluten found in traditional soy sauce.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the shrimp with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein. Simply sauté the tofu or tempeh until crispy, and follow the same instructions for the rest of the recipe.

Dairy-Free Option

This dish is already dairy-free, but if you’re looking to add a creamy element, consider using a plant-based cheese or avocado to add richness without dairy.

FAQs About The Recipe

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure they cook evenly and properly.

What If I Don’t Have a Wok?

A large skillet will work just fine if you don’t have a wok. Just make sure to use a wide pan that allows for plenty of room to stir and toss the ingredients.

Can I Add More Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just make sure to cook them until they’re tender before adding the shrimp and cauliflower rice.

Can I Make Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp in Advance?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving. The flavors will meld together and taste just as delicious the next day.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp is a nutritious and flavorful dish that delivers all the comfort of traditional fried rice without the excess carbs. The combination of cauliflower rice, shrimp, and vegetables provides a well-rounded, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or any time you want a healthy and delicious dinner.

With the tips and tricks shared in this article, you’ll be able to perfect this recipe and customize it to suit your dietary preferences. So, go ahead and give it a try — you’ll be amazed at how easily you can transform a classic dish into a healthier, low-carb alternative!