Fermented Vegetable Bowl Fusion (Print Version)
Colorful grains, kimchi, vegetables, and tofu topped with zesty dressing, easy for healthy lunches or dinners.
# Components:
→ Grains
01 - 1 cup brown rice or quinoa, uncooked
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Fermented Vegetables
04 - 1 cup kimchi, chopped (use vegetarian if desired)
05 - 1/2 cup sauerkraut (optional, for additional variety)
→ Fresh Vegetables
06 - 1 cup shredded carrots
07 - 1 cup cucumber, sliced
08 - 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
09 - 1 avocado, sliced
10 - 2 radishes, thinly sliced
11 - 1/4 cup scallions, sliced
→ Protein (optional)
12 - 1 cup cooked edamame or firm tofu, cubed
→ Dressing
13 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
14 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
15 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
16 - 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
17 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
18 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
→ Toppings
19 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
20 - 1 sheet nori, sliced (optional)
21 - Chili flakes (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Rinse brown rice or quinoa thoroughly. Combine grains, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Cook according to package instructions—approximately 25 minutes for brown rice or 15 minutes for quinoa. Once tender, fluff grains with a fork and allow them to cool slightly.
02 - Shred carrots and thinly slice cucumber, avocado, radishes, and scallions. Set aside greens and prepared vegetables for assembly.
03 - If using tofu, pat it dry and cut into small cubes. For added texture, pan-sear tofu in a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil until golden on all sides. Alternatively, use cooked edamame.
04 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup or honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well blended.
05 - Divide the cooked grains among four serving bowls. Artfully arrange kimchi, sauerkraut (if using), fresh vegetables, and protein atop the grains.
06 - Drizzle prepared dressing over each bowl. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, sliced nori, and chili flakes if desired as garnish.
07 - Serve immediately and enjoy the medley of textures and flavors.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Bright, nutritious, and customizable for any season
- Vegetarian and easy to make vegan or gluten-free
02 -
- Use vegan kimchi and maple syrup to make it fully plant-based
- Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce for sensitive diets
03 -
- Mix and match vegetables based on the season or what's available
- Prep ingredients in advance for quick assembly during busy weeks