Fermented Vegetable Grains Bowl (Printable)

Vibrant grains, kimchi, vegetables, and savory dressing make a wholesome meal for any occasion.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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)

# Method:

01 - Rinse brown rice or quinoa thoroughly. In a medium saucepan, combine grains, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer—about 25 minutes for rice, 15 minutes for quinoa. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly.
02 - Shred carrots. Slice cucumber, avocado, radishes, and scallions. Set aside for assembly.
03 - If using tofu, pat it dry and cut into cubes. Optionally, pan-sear the tofu in a nonstick pan with a splash of oil over medium heat until golden on all sides. For edamame, ensure it is cooked and drained.
04 - Whisk soy sauce or tamari with toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup or honey, grated fresh ginger, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl until smooth.
05 - Divide cooked grains among four serving bowls. Top with kimchi, sauerkraut (if using), assorted fresh vegetables, and chosen protein.
06 - Drizzle each bowl with the prepared dressing. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, sliced nori, and chili flakes if desired.
07 - Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Customizable with your favorite vegetables and grains
  • Wholesome, vegetarian, and easily made vegan
02 -
  • For vegan option, use maple syrup and check kimchi ingredients
  • Nori and sauerkraut add variety in flavor and texture
03 -
  • For meal prep, keep dressing separate until ready to serve
  • Try adding microgreens for extra nutrition and color