Fermented Vegetable Grain Bowl (Print)
Tangy kimchi, fresh vegetables, hearty grains, and savory dressing combine for a nourishing, colorful lunch or dinner.
# Ingredients:
→ Grains
01 - 1 cup uncooked brown rice or quinoa
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Fermented Vegetables
04 - 1 cup chopped kimchi, ensure vegetarian if required
05 - 1/2 cup sauerkraut (optional, for variety)
→ Fresh Vegetables
06 - 1 cup shredded carrots
07 - 1 cup sliced cucumber
08 - 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
09 - 1 avocado, sliced
10 - 2 radishes, thinly sliced
11 - 1/4 cup sliced scallions
→ Protein
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 under running water. Place grain in a medium saucepan with water and salt, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until grains are cooked through—approximately 25 minutes for brown rice or 15 minutes for quinoa. Fluff with a fork and cool slightly before use.
02 - Shred carrots, slice cucumber, avocado, radishes, and scallions using a chef's knife and cutting board.
03 - If using tofu, pat dry and cut into cubes. For enhanced flavor, sear tofu in a nonstick pan over medium heat with a splash of oil, turning until golden on all sides. If substituting edamame, ensure beans are fully cooked and drained.
04 - In a small mixing bowl, combine soy sauce (or tamari), toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk thoroughly until emulsified and set aside.
05 - Divide cooked grains evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange kimchi, sauerkraut (if desired), selected fresh vegetables, and protein over the grains.
06 - Drizzle each bowl with the prepared dressing. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, add sliced nori, and dust chili flakes to taste.
07 - Serve immediately for optimal texture and temperature.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- Fermented vegetables add tang& probiotics& and unique flavor.
- Total bowl is packed with color& texture& and nutrition in every bite.
02 -
- Check kimchi ingredients for vegetarian or vegan labels (some brands add fish sauce or shellfish.)
- Dressing can be customized with extra ginger or chili flakes for added heat and zing.
03 -
- Let grains cool for 5 minutes before assembling bowls to preserve the crunch of fresh veggies.
- Change up toppings with microgreens or pickled radishes for extra color and flavor.