Description
This Cauliflower Fried Rice with Crispy Tofu is a flavorful, healthy, and low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice. Combining the nutty flavor of sesame oil, the aromatic touch of garlic and ginger, and the satisfying crispiness of tofu, this dish is perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 1 lb), riced
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
- 1 medium carrot, diced for sweetness and crunch
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
Protein
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce for seasoning
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil for a nutty flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rice the cauliflower: Remove the leaves and stem of the cauliflower, then use a food processor or box grater to finely rice the cauliflower, creating small, rice-like pieces.
- Prepare and cook the tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the tofu cubes until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add diced carrots and cook until they soften, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the cauliflower rice: Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet, stirring and cooking for about 5 minutes to allow it to soften slightly but maintain some texture. Then stir in frozen peas, cooked tofu, soy sauce, and sesame oil, mixing well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. Adjust salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu removes excess moisture, which helps it become crispier when frying.
- You can substitute tamari for soy sauce if you prefer a gluten-free option.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for more color and nutrients.
- This dish reheats well, but tofu will be crispiest when freshly cooked.
- To rice cauliflower without a processor, pulse florets in a blender or grate with a box grater.
