Tangy kimchi, crisp vegetables, wholesome grains, and rich sesame dressing create a vibrant, nutritious lunch or dinner.
# Components:
→ 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 (vegetarian if preferred)
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)
# Preparation Steps:
01 - Rinse the grains thoroughly 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. Once tender, fluff with a fork and allow to cool briefly.
02 - Shred carrots using a box grater, slice cucumber, avocado, radishes, and scallions with a chef's knife. Arrange vegetables separately for easy assembly.
03 - For tofu, pat dry and cube. Optionally, heat a nonstick pan over medium and sauté tofu in a splash of oil until golden on all sides. For edamame, use cooked and shelled beans.
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 emulsified.
05 - Divide cooked grains evenly among four bowls. Top each with kimchi, sauerkraut (if using), fresh vegetables, and protein source as desired.
06 - Drizzle prepared dressing over each bowl. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, add sliced nori and chili flakes if desired.
07 - Present bowls immediately while ingredients remain fresh and vibrant.
