Name: Everyday Buddha Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces sweet potatoes (scrubbed and cubed); 2 heads broccoli (chopped); 1.5 tablespoons avocado oil (or extra virgin olive oil); 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 0.25 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1.5 cups brown rice (or quinoa); 3 cups vegetable stock (or broth or water); 1.5 cups raw lentils (or 2 14-oz cans of beans); 3 cups water (omit if using canned beans); 0.5 teaspoon salt (omit if using canned beans); 2 tablespoons mellow white miso paste; 0.5 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 clove garlic (minced or finely grated); 0.75 cup water; 0.5 teaspoon salt (optional); 1 dash cayenne pepper (optional); 1-2 cups vegan kimchi (or sauerkraut); Fennel seeds, black sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes (for garnish)

Creating a delicious and nourishing meal doesn’t have to be complicated. The Everyday Buddha Bowl is the perfect example of a wholesome dish that brings together vibrant vegetables, hearty grains, and a delightful sauce, all in one bowl. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adapt it based on the season or what you have on hand. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that nurtures your body and soul.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

The Everyday Buddha Bowl is a celebration of flavors and textures. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, tender broccoli, and protein-packed lentils creates a satisfying meal that appeals to various taste buds. The creamy tahini dressing brings everything together, enhancing the dish with a nutty richness. Plus, it’s colorful and visually appealing, making it a hit at any gathering. You can customize it further with toppings like kimchi or sauerkraut, which adds a probiotic punch.

What to Buy

To create your own Everyday Buddha Bowl, here’s what you’ll need:

2 sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cubed (peeling optional, about 4 cups)
2 heads broccoli, chopped (about 4 cups)
1 1/2 tbsp avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil
1/4 tsp each: smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and fine sea salt
1 1/2 cups brown rice or quinoa
3 cups vegetable stock, broth, or water
1 1/2 cups raw lentils or 2 14-oz cans of black, pinto, or other beans
3 cups water (omit if using canned beans)
1/2 tsp salt (omit if using canned beans)
2 tbsp mellow white miso paste
1/2 cup tahini
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced or finely grated
3/4 cup water
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)
1-2 cups vegan kimchi or sauerkraut
Fennel seeds, black sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes for garnish

Equipment Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Everyday Buddha Bowl:

Oven: For roasting the sweet potatoes and broccoli.
Medium pot: To cook the brown rice or quinoa.
Large saucepan: For cooking the lentils or heating the beans.
Bowl: To mix the tahini dressing.
Spatula: For tossing vegetables and serving.

How to Prepare Everyday Buddha Bowl

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes and chopped broccoli in a large bowl with avocado oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the broccoli is slightly crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Grains

While the vegetables are roasting, rinse the brown rice or quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, combine the grains with 3 cups of vegetable stock or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 30-40 minutes for brown rice or 15 minutes for quinoa, until the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Lentils or Beans

If you’re using raw lentils, rinse them under cold water and add to a large saucepan with 3 cups of water and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them, then set aside.

Step 4: Make the Tahini Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, 3/4 cup of water, and 1/2 tsp salt (if using). Adjust the consistency with more water if necessary, until it reaches your desired thickness. For an extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Step 5: Assemble Your Buddha Bowl

In large bowls, layer the cooked grains, roasted vegetables, and lentils or beans. Drizzle generously with tahini dressing. Top with vegan kimchi or sauerkraut for a probiotic boost. Garnish with fennel seeds, black sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes for a colorful and flavorful finish.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

The beauty of the Everyday Buddha Bowl is its adaptability throughout the seasons. Here are some ideas to switch it up:

Spring: Add fresh asparagus and peas for a vibrant twist.
Summer: Incorporate grilled zucchini and corn for a smoky flavor.
Fall: Mix in roasted beets and apples for a sweet and earthy combination.
Winter: Use hearty kale or Brussels sprouts for a comforting dish.

Chef’s Notes

Feel free to customize your Everyday Buddha Bowl based on your dietary preferences and what you have in your pantry. The grains can be swapped for quinoa, farro, or even couscous. For protein, consider adding crispy tofu or Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas 3 Ways for an added crunch. This bowl is also perfect for meal prep; just store the components separately until you’re ready to enjoy!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

The Everyday Buddha Bowl can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To rewarm, simply microwave or heat in a skillet over medium heat. If the tahini dressing thickens in the fridge, just whisk in a little water to loosen it up before serving.

Your Top Questions

Can I use other types of beans in the Buddha Bowl?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any beans you prefer, such as chickpeas or kidney beans, or use Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa Bake for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

The Everyday Buddha Bowl is naturally gluten-free when you use quinoa or brown rice. Just ensure that the tahini and miso paste are also gluten-free.

What if I don’t like tahini?

If tahini isn’t your thing, you can swap it out for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that it will alter the taste slightly.

Can I add protein to this bowl?

Yes! You can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tempeh for extra protein. Tofu is another great option, especially when roasted or pan-fried for added texture.

After enjoying your , why not treat yourself to something sweet? Here are a few ideas:

Make It Tonight

With its vibrant colors, rich textures, and a delightful mix of flavors, the Everyday Buddha Bowl is a meal you can easily whip up any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this bowl is sure to satisfy and nourish. It’s time to bring the joy of cooking into your kitchen and experience the comfort of a beautifully crafted buddha bowl. Enjoy!