Fermented Vegetable Grain Bowl (Print)

Tangy kimchi, grains, and fresh veggies combine for a nourishing, colorful bowl. Easy to customize and satisfy.

# 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 (vegetarian if needed)
05 - 1/2 cup sauerkraut (optional)

→ 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

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 and combine with water and salt in a medium saucepan. Cook according to package directions—approximately 25 minutes for brown rice or 15 minutes for quinoa. When grains are tender, fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly.
02 - Shred carrots with a grater, slice cucumber, avocado, radishes, and scallions using a chef’s knife. Arrange vegetables for easy assembly.
03 - If using tofu, pat dry and cube it. Optionally, pan-sear tofu in a nonstick pan over medium heat, using a small amount of oil, until golden on all sides. Use cooked edamame as an alternative.
04 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, ginger, and minced garlic until emulsified.
05 - Divide cooked grains evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange kimchi, sauerkraut (if desired), fresh vegetables, and chosen protein neatly on top of the grains.
06 - Drizzle bowls with prepared dressing. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, sliced nori, and chili flakes as preferred.
07 - Present immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bright, tangy flavors from fermented vegetables
  • Easy to customize for vegan or non-vegetarian diets
02 -
  • Check labels on kimchi and sauce for allergens and vegetarian options
  • Swap grains or proteins to fit personal preferences and dietary needs
03 -
  • Let the grains cool for a few minutes before assembling to keep vegetables crisp
  • Use fresh, seasonal produce for maximum flavor and nutrition