Fermented Vegetable Grain Bowl (Printer View)

Tangy kimchi, grains, greens, and fresh veggies come together in a vibrant, nutrient-packed lunch or dinner bowl.

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

# Method steps:

01 - Rinse brown rice or quinoa thoroughly and combine with water and salt in a medium saucepan. Cook according to package instructions—typically 25 minutes for rice or 15 minutes for quinoa—until grains are tender. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly.
02 - Using a chef’s knife on a cutting board, shred carrots and slice cucumber, avocado, radishes, and scallions. Arrange vegetables for assembly.
03 - For tofu, pat dry and cube. Optionally pan-sear in a nonstick pan over medium heat with a splash of oil until golden and crisp on all sides. If using edamame, ensure it is cooked and cooled.
04 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, grated fresh ginger, and minced garlic until emulsified.
05 - Divide cooked grains evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange kimchi, sauerkraut (if using), prepared vegetables, and protein atop grains.
06 - Drizzle dressing over the assembled ingredients. Garnish each bowl with toasted sesame seeds, sliced nori, and chili flakes as desired.
07 - Serve immediately and enjoy while fresh.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Packed with nutritious vegetables and fermented flavors
  • Flexible options for grains and proteins to suit different diets
02 -
  • For vegan, use maple syrup and vegan kimchi (no fish sauce)
  • Kimchi, tofu, and soy sauce may contain soy—always check for allergies
03 -
  • Add microgreens or pickled vegetables for extra color and flavor
  • Swap grains or proteins for variety—try farro or grilled chicken if preferred
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