Fermented Vegetable Bowl Lunch (Printable)

A vibrant bowl of grains, kimchi, fresh veggies and savory dressing—hearty and nourishing for lunch or dinner.

# Ingredient List:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup brown rice or quinoa, uncooked
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Fermented Vegetables

04 - 1 cup chopped kimchi (ensure vegetarian if needed)
05 - 1/2 cup sauerkraut (optional, for variety)

→ Fresh Vegetables

06 - 1 cup shredded carrots
07 - 1 cup sliced cucumber
08 - 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
09 - 1 avocado, sliced
10 - 2 radishes, thinly sliced
11 - 1/4 cup sliced scallions

→ Protein (optional)

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)

# Steps:

01 - Rinse the brown rice or quinoa thoroughly. Combine the grains with water and salt in a medium saucepan, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for approximately 25 minutes for brown rice or 15 minutes for quinoa, until tender. Fluff the cooked grains with a fork and allow them to cool slightly.
02 - Shred the carrots, slice the cucumber, avocado, and radishes, and thinly slice the scallions. Set all vegetables aside for easy assembly.
03 - If using firm tofu, pat it dry and cube into bite-sized pieces. Optionally, pan-sear the tofu in a nonstick pan over medium heat with a splash of oil until golden on all sides. If using edamame, ensure it is fully cooked and drained.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup or honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk until fully combined and emulsified.
05 - Divide the cooked grains evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange the chopped kimchi, sauerkraut (if using), prepared vegetables, and protein on top of the grains.
06 - Drizzle each bowl with the prepared dressing. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, sliced nori, and chili flakes if desired.
07 - Serve immediately, ensuring all ingredients are freshly combined and the bowls are visually vibrant.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Loaded with gut-friendly fermented foods
  • Quick to assemble and fully customizable
02 -
  • Check kimchi ingredients to ensure it's vegetarian or vegan if needed
  • Opt for tamari for a gluten-free variation
03 -
  • To make ahead, prep grains and veggies in advance, then assemble before serving
  • Switch up the vegetables based on what’s fresh and in season
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