Fermented Vegetable Grain Bowl (Printable)

Enjoy a nourishing bowl filled with vibrant vegetables, tangy kimchi, and hearty grains for balanced flavor.

# 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
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)

# How-To:

01 - Rinse brown rice or quinoa thoroughly and combine with water and salt in a medium saucepan. Cook according to package instructions—approximately 25 minutes for brown rice or 15 minutes for quinoa. Fluff with a fork and let grains cool slightly before assembling.
02 - Shred carrots, slice cucumber, avocado, radishes, and scallions using a chef's knife and cutting board. Arrange vegetables in separate bowls for assembly.
03 - If opting for tofu, pat tofu dry, cube evenly, and optionally pan-sear in a nonstick skillet with a small amount of oil over medium heat until golden on all sides. If using edamame, ensure beans are fully cooked.
04 - In a mixing bowl, whisk soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup or honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic together until emulsified. Set aside for serving.
05 - Divide cooked grains evenly among four bowls. Arrange kimchi, sauerkraut (if using), prepared fresh vegetables, and protein neatly on top of the grains.
06 - Drizzle each bowl with dressing. Finish with toasted sesame seeds, sliced nori, and chili flakes if desired.
07 - Present immediately while vegetables remain crisp and grains are slightly warm. Enjoy promptly for optimal texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Loaded with gut-friendly fermented vegetables for digestive health
  • Customizable for dietary preferences and packed with fresh flavors
02 -
  • Always check kimchi for vegetarian/vegan labels if needed (some contain fish sauce or shellfish)
  • This recipe naturally contains soy and sesame; choose tamari for gluten-free variation
03 -
  • Use leftover grains for faster assembly and minimal prep
  • Add microgreens or extra pickled veggies for color and flavor contrast
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