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Crispy Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp

crispy cauliflower fried rice with shrimp - featured image

A quick and easy recipe that transforms cauliflower into a crispy fried rice base paired with juicy shrimp, delivering a flavorful and light meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 4 cups riced)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or avocado oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix, thawed
  • 12 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for shrimp marinade)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (for finishing)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced thin
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Rice the cauliflower by cutting it into florets and pulsing in a food processor until it resembles rice grains. Avoid over-processing to keep texture. Set aside.
  2. Marinate the shrimp by tossing with 1 teaspoon soy sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Sauté garlic and onion for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent, stirring to prevent burning.
  5. Add riced cauliflower and peas and carrots to the pan. Spread evenly and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to get a crispy bottom layer, then stir and repeat once more for even crispiness.
  6. Return shrimp to the pan. Pour in 2 tablespoons soy sauce and drizzle sesame oil. Stir gently to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle sliced green onions and red pepper flakes if using. Toss and remove from heat.

Notes

Dry riced cauliflower on a kitchen towel before cooking to reduce moisture and prevent sogginess. Use a hot pan and avoid stirring constantly to allow crispiness. Cook shrimp just until pink to avoid rubbery texture. Toasted sesame oil added at the end enhances aroma and flavor. Leftovers reheat best in a skillet to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower fried rice, shrimp fried rice, low carb fried rice, quick dinner, healthy shrimp recipe, gluten-free fried rice, easy weeknight meal