Bring on the vegetables! This flavorful vegan cauliflower fried rice is loaded with colorful plant-based goodness in every serving, and the leftovers taste just as delicious the next day.
If you have been craving a simple vegan cauliflower fried rice recipe, this veggie-packed version is a satisfying way to enjoy all the flavor of fried rice with a lighter, vegetable-forward twist. Instead of traditional rice, finely chopped cauliflower creates a tender, rice-like base that soaks up the savory seasoning beautifully.
This easy side dish includes classic fried rice favorites such as peas, carrots, onion, and soy sauce, along with bright additions like red bell pepper, green onion, and a drizzle of Sriracha for heat. The result is colorful, quick, and full of texture.
You can also adapt this cauliflower fried rice to suit different dietary needs. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a paleo-friendly option, or choose gluten-free tamari if you need the recipe to be gluten-free. Each version brings its own savory depth while keeping the dish completely plant-based.
What makes this vegan cauliflower fried rice so useful is how flexible it is. Serve it as a light lunch, a vegetable side dish, or the base of a more filling meal. It reheats well, making it a great choice for meal prep, packed lunches, or busy weeknight dinners.
If cauliflower rice is new to you, it is simply cauliflower chopped or grated into small pieces that resemble grains of rice. It is a popular low-carb and low-calorie alternative to rice, especially for anyone who wants to add more vegetables to everyday meals.
Many grocery stores sell pre-riced cauliflower in the produce section, which is a helpful shortcut. You can also make it at home with a food processor or box grater. To begin, remove the stem and leaves from a head of cauliflower, then choose one of the methods below.
Food Processor Technique
Cut the cauliflower into small florets. If your food processor has a grater disc, use it to shred the cauliflower into rice-like pieces. If not, work in small batches and pulse the florets until they look finely minced. Avoid over-processing, as the cauliflower can become too soft or mushy.
Box Grater Technique
Break the cauliflower into large pieces that are easy to hold. Grate each piece on the coarse side of a box grater until it resembles rice. When the pieces become too small to grip safely, mince the remaining cauliflower with a knife.
Vegan Cauliflower Fried Rice
This vegan cauliflower fried rice is a fresh, fast, and colorful side dish that works well for make-ahead meals. Leftovers can be reheated in a skillet on the stove or warmed in the microwave.
For extra protein, pair this vegetable stir-fry with your favorite tofu recipe. Shelled edamame is also a tasty addition that blends well with the peas, carrots, cauliflower, and savory sauce.
Vegan Cauliflower Fried Rice
Ingredients
- 12 oz cauliflower rice store-bought or homemade, about 5 cups
- 1/2-3/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3-4 carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1-2 cloves garlic optional
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 TBSP extra virgin olive oil or sesame oil
- 1-2 TBSP low-sodium soy sauce gluten-free or regular
- 1/4 cup chopped green onion
- toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- Sriracha for drizzling
Instructions
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If making cauliflower rice from scratch, use one of the methods above. For a faster option, use fresh bagged cauliflower rice from the produce section.
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Peel and finely dice the onion and carrots. Slice the bell pepper into strips, then chop it into small pieces. Mince the garlic and set it aside.
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Heat a large skillet or lipped pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil.
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Add the onion, carrots, bell pepper, and peas. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the vegetables are tender.
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Stir in the garlic and cauliflower rice. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cauliflower is heated through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Taste the mixture to make sure the vegetables are tender. Add soy sauce gradually, starting with 1 tablespoon, then add more if desired. Stir in the green onion and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and drizzle with Sriracha before serving. Cilantro is also a tasty topping. For a milder finish, use sweet chili sauce instead of Sriracha.
Notes
Cilantro and shelled steamed edamame are tasty additions to this dish.
Nutrition facts are estimates for fried cauliflower rice calculated with an online recipe nutrition calculator. Adjust as needed based on sauce choice, ingredient swaps, and extras.
Nutrition
Hungry for More?
- Vegan Roasted Cauliflower Tacos
- Vegan Ramen Bowls with Edamame and Mushrooms
- Tomato Quinoa Salad
If you try this vegan cauliflower fried rice, share how it turned out. It is a simple, colorful recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables, sauce, and toppings.
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