Here's how to make a satisfying vegan Buddha bowl
The Buddha bowl is a vibrant, nutritious dish that embodies a balanced plant-based diet. This modern culinary trend, inspired by the idea of a bowl that could have nourished Buddha, has become popular for its versatility and healthful approach. Originating from health-conscious circles, it's a testament to eating that feeds both body and soul. Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
For this vegan Buddha bowl, gather one cup cooked quinoa, one-half cup chickpeas, one small cubed sweet potato, one cup chopped kale, one-half sliced avocado, one spiralized or sliced small beet, two tablespoons pumpkin seeds, and salt. Dressing ingredients include two tablespoons of tahini, one tablespoon each of maple syrup and lemon juice, plus water for consistency.
Roast the sweet potatoes
Heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Toss the sweet potato cubes with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Spread them on a baking sheet, avoiding overlap for even cooking. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender throughout and their edges have turned slightly caramelized.
Prepare the quinoa
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, rinse one cup of quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with two cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until all water is absorbed. Remove from the heat and let it sit covered for five minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Assemble the bowl
Begin by placing a base of cooked quinoa in each bowl. Add the roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and chopped kale. Include slices of avocado and spiralized beets for a mix of textures and colors. Finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds, creating a visually appealing and nutrient-dense meal that's as satisfying to look at as it is to eat.
Prepare the dressing
Begin the dressing by combining tahini, maple syrup, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until they are thoroughly mixed. To achieve the perfect consistency, slowly add water, mixing continuously. The goal is a dressing that is creamy yet pourable. Once your Buddha bowl is assembled, lavish it with this savory tahini mixture just before serving to enhance the flavors.
