30 min  Keto Air Fryer Cauliflower Fried Rice 

Craving Fried Rice But Sticking to Keto? 

Air Fryer Cauliflower Fried Rice Saves the Day 

(Under 30 Minutes!)

Dreaming of fluffy fried rice but worried about the carbs?  We've got you covered! 

This air-fried cauliflower rice recipe is a delicious and low-carb alternative that will satisfy your cravings without kicking you out of ketosis.

Packed with flavor and customizable with your favorite protein and veggies, this dish is a fantastic contender for our "best keto meals" category. 

It's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, a flavorful lunch option, or even a fun side dish.

At a Glance:

• Cost: $5–7 (depending on protein and vegetable choices)

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 25–30 minutes

• Servings: 2

• Calories per Serving: 350 (approx.)

Ingredients:

• Cauliflower Florets:

  • 1 head of cauliflower, riced (or 1 bag pre-riced cauliflower)

• Flavorful Base:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)

  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder

• Protein Power (Choose One):

  • 4 oz. cooked chicken breast, shredded

  • 4 oz. cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 4 oz. ground beef, cooked and crumbled (at least 80% lean)

  • 1/2 cup chopped tofu, sauteed (vegetarian option)

• Veggie Medley (Choose Your Favorites):

  • 1/2 cup chopped broccoli florets

  • 1/2 cup chopped carrots

  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion

  • 1/4 cup chopped green pepper

  • 1/4 cup frozen peas

  • 1 scallion, thinly sliced (for garnish)

• Optional Extras:

  • 1 egg, scrambled (add with the cauliflower rice)

  • Sriracha sauce, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prep the Cauliflower Rice

If using a whole head of cauliflower, break it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice. 

Alternatively, use pre-riced cauliflower for a time-saving shortcut.

2. Whip Up the Flavor Base

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Set aside.

3. Cook the Protein (if using)

If using chicken, shrimp, or ground beef, cook them in a separate skillet according to your preferred method until browned and cooked through. Set aside.

4. Air Fry the Cauliflower Rice

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine riced cauliflower and the prepared flavor base. Toss well to coat the cauliflower rice evenly. Spread the cauliflower rice in a single layer in your air fryer basket. 

Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender-crisp, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking.

5. Assemble Your Fried Rice

Once the cauliflower rice is cooked, add the cooked protein (if using) and your chosen vegetables to the air fryer basket. 

Toss to combine and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serving Suggestions:

• Transfer the air-fried cauliflower rice mixture to plates. Garnish with sliced scallions and a drizzle of sriracha sauce (optional).

• Serve hot as a main dish or a side dish.

Tips:

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket when cooking the cauliflower rice. This will steam the rice instead of crisping it. Cook in batches if necessary.

• Feel free to experiment with different protein and vegetable combinations. Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or water chestnuts are all great options.

• For a richer flavor, add a scrambled egg to the air fryer basket along with the cauliflower rice during the last few minutes of cooking.

This air-fried cauliflower rice is a lifesaver for those with keto cravings. 

It's quick, easy, and packed with flavor. So ditch the takeout menus and whip up this low-carb alternative in under 30 minutes! 

Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you.