Keto Fried Cauliflower Rice with Shrimp

Try this fried cauliflower rice with shrimp for a low-carb, flavor-packed meal! This easy recipe combines savory shrimp, riced cauliflower, and spices for a quick, satisfying keto dish.

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and low-carb meal, fried cauliflower rice with shrimp is a must-try. I love how easy it is to make on busy weeknights, and it never feels like you’re sacrificing flavor for health. With riced cauliflower as a base, this dish has the texture of traditional fried rice but without the carbs, making it perfect for keto and low-carb diets.

The shrimp adds protein and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory cauliflower. You can even customize it with your favorite spices or veggies, so it never gets boring. I find that a little garlic, soy sauce, and green onions really up the flavors and makes it feel like a takeout treat without all the added carbs.

Making this dish is not only healthy but also budget-friendly. Cauliflower rice and shrimp are both affordable, and this recipe comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s ready in about 30 minutes, just like Cajun shrimp and grits. It’s ideal for those nights when you want something quick and tasty.

Items Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make shrimp cauliflower rice:

• Riced Cauliflower: Acts as a low-carb substitute for rice, providing a similar texture with fewer carbs and calories.
• Baby Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and a crunchy texture, balancing the savory elements in the dish.
• Green Beans: Offers a crisp bite and a pop of color, while adding fiber and vitamins.
• Red Bell Pepper: Provides a sweet, mild flavor along with vibrant color and nutrients.
• White Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, enhancing the savory taste of the dish.
• Garlic: Brings an aromatic, bold flavor that complements the shrimp and vegetables perfectly.
• Sesame Seed Oil: Adds a nutty, toasted flavor that gives an authentic Asian-inspired taste.
• Gluten-Free Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos: Contributes salty umami flavor while keeping the recipe gluten-free and keto-friendly.
• Eggs: Adds protein and a creamy texture to bind the ingredients, much like traditional fried rice.
• Raw Shrimp: Provides a lean source of protein with a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the cauliflower rice.
• Ground Ginger: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, enhancing the dish’s depth and flavor complexity.
• Black Pepper: Gives a mild kick that enhances the other seasonings and spices.
• Crushed Red Pepper or Sriracha (optional): Adds optional heat for those who like a little spice, bringing an extra layer of flavor.

Ways To Customize

Here are some easy ways to customize your shrimp fried cauliflower rice recipe and make it your own:

• Swap the Protein: Substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, or tofu for a different source of protein. Each option brings a unique flavor and texture that complements the cauliflower rice.
• Add More Vegetables: Toss in other low-carb veggies like mushrooms, roasted zucchini, snap peas, or broccoli. These additions can add variety and enhance the dish’s nutritional value and flavor.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or red pepper flakes. For a milder option, try a dash of smoked paprika for warmth without the heat.
• Try Different Seasonings: Play with flavors by adding spices like curry powder, turmeric, or Cajun seasoning. These spices can completely transform the dish and give it a new flavor profile.
• Use a Different Oil: Instead of sesame oil, try avocado or olive oil. While sesame oil adds an Asian-inspired taste, other oils give a milder flavor and pair well with different seasonings.
• Top It Off: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro, green onions, or basil for an extra freshness. For crunch, you can also add chopped nuts or seeds, like peanuts or sesame seeds.
• Mix in Some Fruit: For a unique twist, add pineapple chunks or mango for a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory flavors, creating a tropical flair reminiscent of Thai-style fried rice.

How To Make It

Start by preparing all your vegetables. If you aren’t using pre-riced cauliflower, pulse fresh cauliflower in a food processor until it’s a rice-like consistency. Then, follow these simple instructions.

In a large skillet, spray pan with nonstick spray. Add the eggs and stir until cooked. Place cooked eggs into a small bowl and set aside.

In the same skillet, add oil, onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, and shrimp.

Cook until veggies and shrimp are fully cooked.

Add cauliflower rice, soy sauce, black pepper, and ginger.

Toss in the cooked eggs.

Mix well and stir just until heated.

Storage

You can store the fried cauliflower rice with shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For reheating, use a skillet on medium heat with a small splash of oil or a few drops of water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until everything is heated through.

Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the shrimp tender and the cauliflower rice from becoming mushy.

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful hints for making a delicious shrimp fried cauliflower rice recipe:

• Use High Heat for Stir-Frying: Cooking on high heat helps achieve a fried, slightly crispy texture for the cauliflower rice. This method keeps veggies crisp-tender and enhances flavors without making the cauliflower mushy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Use a large skillet or wok to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than frying. If needed, cook the cauliflower rice in batches to maintain its fried texture.
• Season Well: Cauliflower rice can be mild, so be generous with seasonings. A dash of sesame oil, soy sauce, coconut aminos, and spices like ginger, garlic, or chili flakes add depth and flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking Cauliflower Rice: Cauliflower rice cooks in just a few minutes, so monitor it closely. Overcooking can make it soggy, so stir just until heated through and tender but still firm.

Serving Suggestions

Fried cauliflower rice with shrimp is a flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a satisfying main course on its own, or paired with a few simple sides. For an easy and well-rounded meal, serve it with a side of fresh or steamed veggies or a side salad.

If you want to add more Asian-inspired flavors, consider pairing the dish with a refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Another great option is a miso soup or clear broth soup to enjoy before or alongside the meal.

For a heartier meal, you can serve the fried cauliflower rice with shrimp alongside a protein-rich side like grilled chicken skewers or baked tofu. This pairing works especially well for feeding a larger group or adding more variety to the meal. Garnishes like chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts can also add texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for the recipe. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp first, either by letting them sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or by running them under cold water for a quick thaw. Once thawed, pat them dry before adding them to the dish to avoid excess moisture.

Do I need to cook the cauliflower rice before adding it to the pan?

It’s best to cook the cauliflower rice before adding it to the pan. You can sauté it briefly in a pan or cook it in the microwave to soften it up and remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better texture and ensures it doesn’t become too watery when combined with other ingredients in your fried cauliflower rice.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, you can include a dash of sriracha, crushed red pepper flakes, or diced chili peppers when stir-frying. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference, and add more toward the end if you’d like an extra kick.

Recipe

Keto Fried Cauliflower Rice with Shrimp

Try a delicious and healthy keto fried cauliflower rice with shrimp recipe. It's a quick, low-carb meal full of flavor and protein.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Chinese

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 medium head of cauliflower riced
• 2 small baby carrots
• ½ cup green beans sliced
• 1 medium red bell pepper chopped
• ½ medium white onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 ½ tablespoons sesame seed oil
• 2 tablespoons low sodium gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos
• 4 large eggs beaten
• 1 pound raw shrimp
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• crushed red pepper or sriracha (optional)

Instructions

 

• Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it’s a rice-like consistency. (Don’t have a food processor? Most grocery stores now sell fresh and/or frozen cauliflower rice).
• In a large skillet, spray pan with nonstick spray. Add the eggs and stir until cooked. Place cooked eggs into a small bowl and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add oil, onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, and shrimp. Cook until veggies and shrimp are fully cooked.
• Add cauliflower rice, soy sauce, black pepper, ginger and eggs. Mix well.
• Serve with crushed red pepper or sriracha for a spicy kick.

Notes

Be careful not to overcook the riced cauliflower, about 3 minutes is all it needs. Overcooking can result in a mushy, soggy texture.

If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. You can do this quickly by placing them in a colander and running cold water over them for a few minutes, or by soaking them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes.

There’s no need to thaw frozen cauliflower rice. It can go straight from the freezer into the pan, although it may take a bit longer to cook.

Equipment

• Food processor if using fresh whole cauliflower
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Small bowl

Keyword cauliflower, shrimp

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