Fermented Vegetable Grain Bowl (Printable version)

Mixed grains, kimchi, and vegetables blend in a vibrant bowl, finished with savory dressing and crunchy toppings.

# What you need:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup brown rice or quinoa, uncooked
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Fermented Vegetables

04 - 1 cup chopped kimchi (vegetarian if needed)
05 - 1/2 cup sauerkraut (optional)

→ 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 (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)

# How to Make It:

01 - Rinse the brown rice or quinoa and cook with water and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat according to package instructions—approximately 25 minutes for brown rice and 15 minutes for quinoa. Fluff gently with a fork and allow to cool slightly before assembling.
02 - Shred carrots, slice cucumber, avocado, radishes, and scallions; arrange each ingredient separately for convenient assembly.
03 - If using firm tofu, pat dry and cut into bite-size cubes. Optionally pan-sear tofu in a nonstick pan with a touch of oil over medium heat until evenly golden. Alternatively, use cooked edamame for a plant-based protein source.
04 - In a small mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together soy sauce or tamari, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup or honey, grated fresh ginger, and minced garlic until fully emulsified.
05 - Divide the cooked grains evenly among four serving bowls. Top each portion with kimchi, sauerkraut if using, assorted fresh vegetables, and chosen protein.
06 - Drizzle each bowl with dressing. Finish with toasted sesame seeds, sliced nori, and chili flakes to taste.
07 - Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Combines fermented foods and fresh vegetables for balanced flavor
  • Customizable and vegetarian-friendly for different dietary needs
02 -
  • Double-check that kimchi is vegetarian for plant-based diets
  • Using tamari makes the bowl gluten-free for those sensitive to gluten
03 -
  • Add microgreens or pickled vegetables for extra color and nutrients
  • Swap grains or proteins to match what you have on hand
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