Name: Everyday Buddha Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 2 sweet potatoes scrubbed and cubed (peeling optional, about 4 cups); 2 heads broccoli (chopped, about 4 cups); 1.5 tbsp avocado oil (or extra virgin olive oil); 0.25 tsp smoked paprika; 0.25 tsp garlic powder; 0.25 tsp black pepper; 0.25 tsp fine sea salt; 1.5 cups brown rice (or quinoa); 3 cups vegetable stock (broth, or water); 1.5 cups raw lentils (or 2 (14-oz) cans of black, pinto, or other beans); 3 cups water (omit if using canned beans); 0.5 tsp salt (omit if using canned beans); 2 tbsp mellow white miso paste; 0.5 cup tahini; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 clove garlic (minced or finely grated); 0.75 cup water; 0.5 tsp salt (optional); 1 dash cayenne pepper (optional); 1-2 cups vegan kimchi (or sauerkraut); to taste Fennel seeds (to garnish); to taste Black sesame seeds (to garnish); to taste Red pepper flakes (to garnish)

If you’re on the hunt for a nourishing, vibrant, and utterly satisfying meal, look no further than the Everyday Buddha Bowl. This recipe is a delightful mix of roasted sweet potatoes, tender broccoli, hearty grains, and protein-packed lentils, all drizzled with a creamy tahini sauce that ties everything together. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, this bowl is not only visually stunning but also offers a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling energized and fulfilled.

Why I Love This Recipe

The Everyday Buddha Bowl is my go-to dish for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or what’s in season, ensuring it’s always fresh. Second, it’s packed with nutrients. From the vitamins in the broccoli to the fiber in the lentils, this bowl is a health-conscious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. Lastly, it’s a meal that can be prepared in bulk, making it perfect for meal prep and ensuring you have wholesome food ready to go throughout the week.

What You’ll Gather

2 sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cubed (peeling optional, about 4 cups)
2 heads of broccoli, chopped (about 4 cups)
1 1/2 tbsp avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil
1/4 tsp each of 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, to garnish
Black sesame seeds, to garnish
Red pepper flakes, to garnish

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Sharp knife – For chopping vegetables with ease.
Cutting board – A stable surface for your prep work.
Sheet pan – Essential for roasting the sweet potatoes and broccoli.
Pot – For cooking the grains and lentils.
Blender – To whip up the tahini sauce smoothly.
Mixing bowl – Useful for combining ingredients and tossing veggies.

From Start to Finish: Everyday Buddha Bowl

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a large sheet pan, toss the cubed sweet potatoes and chopped broccoli with avocado oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and sea salt. Spread them out in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized, and the broccoli is vibrant and crisp-tender.

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 rinsed grains with 3 cups of vegetable stock or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the grains are cooked through—about 45 minutes for brown rice or 15 minutes for quinoa. Once done, fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Lentils

If using raw lentils, rinse them well and place them in a separate pot with 3 cups of water and 1/2 tsp of salt (omit if using canned beans). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set aside. If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain them, then set aside.

Step 4: Make the Tahini Sauce

In your blender, combine the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, 3/4 cup of water, and salt (optional). Blend until smooth and creamy, adding a bit more water if necessary to reach your desired consistency. For a little kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Buddha Bowls

In a large bowl or individual serving bowls, layer the cooked grains, roasted sweet potatoes, broccoli, and lentils (or beans). Top with a generous drizzle of tahini sauce and a scoop of vegan kimchi or sauerkraut. Garnish with fennel seeds, black sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes for an extra pop of flavor.

Make It Fit Your Plan

Protein boost: Add tofu, tempeh, or grilled chicken for extra protein.
Grain alternatives: Use farro, bulgur, or cauliflower rice instead of brown rice or quinoa.
Vegetable swaps: Substitute seasonal veggies like kale, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
Flavor variations: Experiment with different sauces such as peanut sauce or a spicy tahini blend.

Notes on Ingredients

Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness and are a fantastic source of vitamins A and C. Broccoli not only adds crunch but is also rich in antioxidants. Lentils are a powerhouse of protein and fiber, making this dish filling and nutritious. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your palate, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of beans or grains for a unique twist.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

The Everyday Buddha Bowl is perfect for meal prep! Store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the grains and veggies, then top with tahini sauce and garnishes. You can also freeze components like the grains and lentils for longer storage. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy your bowl!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a convenient alternative. Just be sure to adjust the roasting time as they may cook faster than fresh vegetables.

Can I make the tahini sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The tahini sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just stir or shake well before using, as it may thicken over time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains like quinoa or ensure your tahini is gluten-free, this Everyday Buddha Bowl is a great gluten-free option!

What can I substitute for tahini?

If you don’t have tahini, you can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as an alternative, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Desserts to Finish

Vegan Chocolate Mousse – A rich and creamy way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Healthy Banana Bread – Perfect for a post-meal treat or breakfast on the go.
Vegan Chia Seed Pudding – A light and refreshing dessert option.

The Takeaway

The Everyday Buddha Bowl is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of wholesome, nourishing ingredients that come together to create something truly special. This recipe encourages you to get creative in the kitchen, making it easy to adapt based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the Everyday Buddha Bowl brighten your table today!