Cauliflower Fried Rice with Crispy Tofu is a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice. This dish combines flavorful, sautéed riced cauliflower with a colorful mix of vegetables and golden, crispy tofu for a satisfying, protein-packed meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A great low-carb and grain-free alternative to regular fried rice
- Packed with plant-based protein from tofu
- Quick and easy to prepare – perfect for weeknight dinners
- Completely customizable with your favorite vegetables or sauces
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cauliflower, riced
- Extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Olive oil or other cooking oil
- Garlic, minced
- Ginger, grated
- Eggs (optional for extra protein)
- Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers, etc.)
- Green onions for garnish
- Sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed tofu with a little oil and soy sauce, then bake for 25–30 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
- While tofu bakes, sauté garlic and ginger in a pan with oil until fragrant.
- Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
- Stir in the riced cauliflower and cook for 5–7 minutes until just tender.
- Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Add beaten eggs (if using) and scramble until cooked.
- Mix everything together and add soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili sauce (if using).
- Stir in crispy tofu and top with green onions before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Make it vegan by skipping the eggs or using a vegan egg alternative
- Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version
- Add other proteins like tempeh, seitan, or even edamame
- Include other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas
Storage/Reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through
- Freeze for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container
FAQs
What is cauliflower rice?
Cauliflower rice is finely chopped or grated cauliflower that resembles the texture of rice. It’s often used as a low-carb alternative to grains.
How do I make crispy tofu?
Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, cube it, toss with oil and cornstarch, and bake it at high heat until golden and crispy.
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes, frozen cauliflower rice works just as well. Thaw it first and squeeze out excess moisture if needed.
What vegetables work best in this dish?
Peas, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and corn are all great options. Use what you have on hand or what’s in season.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Can I add more protein?
Yes, add more tofu, or other protein sources like edamame, tempeh, or a fried egg on top.
Does this reheat well?
Yes, it reheats very well in the microwave or on the stovetop. It’s perfect for meal prep.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s not inherently spicy, but you can add sriracha or chili flakes to turn up the heat.
Can I skip the tofu?
Yes, but the tofu adds protein and texture. You can substitute it with another protein or just enjoy the veggie rice.
How do I prevent cauliflower rice from getting soggy?
Cook it over medium-high heat and avoid covering the pan to allow moisture to evaporate.
Conclusion
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Crispy Tofu is a versatile, delicious, and wholesome meal that fits perfectly into any healthy eating plan. Whether you’re trying to eat low-carb, go plant-based, or just want a flavorful dish, this recipe delivers big taste with minimal effort.
Print
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Crispy Tofu
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A healthy and flavorful low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice, featuring cauliflower rice stir-fried with vegetables, scrambled eggs, and topped with crispy baked tofu.
Ingredients
- 15 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 knob of ginger, grated
- 2–3 cups frozen peas and carrots
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Sriracha (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Toss the pressed and cubed tofu with olive oil, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- While the tofu bakes, pulse the cauliflower florets in a food processor until they reach a rice-like consistency.
- Heat a swish of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and frozen peas and carrots. Sauté until fragrant and the vegetables are heated through.
- Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet along with soy sauce and Sriracha. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
- Push the cauliflower mixture to the sides of the skillet, creating a well in the center. Add sesame oil and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix them into the cauliflower rice.
- Serve the cauliflower fried rice topped with the crispy baked tofu and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
- Ensure the tofu is well-pressed to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Customize the vegetable mix based on personal preference or availability.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Sriracha or add red pepper flakes.
- This dish is excellent for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 378
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 622mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 123mg