Perfecting the Artwork of the Grain Bowl in 3 Straightforward Steps

As beforehand seen on Wit & Delight

Editor’s Notice: Whether or not you’re craving some lighter fare in preparation of (or following) the richer meals that have a tendency to return with the vacation season, otherwise you merely need to add some new variations to a go-to meal, this publish is for you. In it, Sonja Overhiser breaks down precisely what it is advisable know to craft a scrumptious grain bowl each single time. Take pleasure in!

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There’s one query I get essentially the most as a meals blogger slash cookbook creator. What are one of the best simple and wholesome dinner recipes? (Effectively, that and the way you get a million followers on Instagram.)

The primary query is far simpler to reply. And right here’s what I flip to most frequently: grain bowls! Bowl meals, Buddha bowls, quinoa bowls, rice bowls: No matter you name them, these bowls are the place it’s at for dinnertime with out pondering too exhausting. Why? They’re simple, they’re filled with taste, they usually come collectively shortly. They’re additionally nice for decreasing meals waste within the kitchen. As a result of let’s face it: What different means are you able to throw random leftovers in a bowl and name it a meal?

Grain bowls may appear overly easy, however there’s truly an artwork to this idea. That you must play up contrasts in taste, texture, and colour otherwise you’ll find yourself with a uninteresting and mushy grain bowl. However do it proper and also you’ll need to stuff your face. Listed below are the three foremost guidelines for a kickin’ grain bowl.

3 guidelines for an excellent grain bowl

1. Choose your base grain.

There are many entire grains to select from: some commonplace, some extra distinctive! When you’ve obtained a stress cooker or Instantaneous Pot, now’s the time to make use of it. You possibly can prepare dinner all of those prematurely and refrigerate till serving. Listed below are a number of choices:

2. Add toppings.

Right here’s the true “meat” of your grain bowl: the toppings! There are two foremost divisions of toppings: greens and proteins. Be sure that to combine it up with a few of each. Listed below are some concepts:

• Plant-Primarily based Protein: My favorites are these fast and straightforward chickpeas, black beans, or white beans. One other go-to: the meat-like eggs from these 5-minute tacos. Or strive pan-fried tofu, marinated tofu, or a fast tofu scramble.
• Lean Protein: Shrimp and seared tuna take simply 5 minutes to prepare dinner. Ahi poke makes an excellent bowl, or use cooked hen or baked salmon.
• Uncooked Veggies: Greens add a contemporary distinction! Strive uncooked tomatoes, cucumber, spinach, child kale, bell peppers, avocado, cabbage, zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, or shredded Brussels sprouts.
• Cooked Greens: Add your favourite roasted greens like broccoli, cauliflower, candy potatoes, squash, and extra.
• Aptitude (non-obligatory): End with a contrasting crunch! Sprinkle on chopped almonds, pecans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or feta cheese.

3. Carry it along with a sauce.

Bought your grain bowl collectively? Nice! Let’s tie all of it along with a home made sauce. I discover that when I’ve compiled all the pieces, I solely have vitality for the best of sauces. Listed below are my two favorites that don’t even require a blender:

• Tahini Sauce: Creamy and zingy, it really works for all kinds of bowls (it’s additionally vegan).
• Cilantro Lime Sauce: This play on ranch is severely tasty and works with Latin-style flavors.

Tip: Play up the contrasts!

One very last thing to recollect: Grain bowls are all about contrasts! Nobody needs a colorless bowl that’s all brown and yellow, or a bowl that’s whole mush. It’s vital to consider contrasts in taste, texture, and colour.

For instance, pair tender and fluffy quinoa with crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and savory chickpeas, then high it with a creamy and tangy sauce. Not solely do the textures and flavors distinction however there are additionally a wide range of colours. Keep in mind: We eat with our eyes!

Instance grain bowl recipes

When buying any ability, I discover it’s best to study from examples. So right here’s the enjoyable half: Check out these tasty grain bowl recipes! There are a number of of my favorites and a few concepts from trusted sources across the net. You’ll see numerous examples of the elements organized with contrasts and themes in thoughts. Good luck and tell us how your grain bowl seems!