What is a Buddha Bowl?
Part of our Frequently Asked Culinary Questions. Click to see more answers to your questions.
A Buddha Bowl, often referred to as a grain bowl, nourish bowl, or power bowl, is a wholesome, plant-based meal consisting of a variety of foods served together in a single bowl. The name “Buddha Bowl” is thought to have been inspired by the story of Buddha, who would carry a bowl with him on his journeys and accept food offered to him by villagers, which would then be mixed together in the bowl. This concept mirrors the idea behind the Buddha Bowl, which is a mix of different ingredients that together create a balanced meal.
The base of a Buddha Bowl typically includes a hearty grain such as brown rice, quinoa, barley, or millet. Atop this base, a combination of cooked or raw vegetables is added. Common choices include leafy greens like kale or spinach, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, and other vibrant vegetables such as carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes. To add protein, legumes like chickpeas, lentils, black beans, or tofu are often included. The bowl is then garnished with nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices for extra flavor and nutritional benefits.
The final touch to a Buddha Bowl is the dressing or sauce, which ties all the components together. This could range from a simple vinaigrette to more elaborate sauces like tahini, peanut, or miso-based dressings. Buddha Bowls can be customized according to personal taste preferences or dietary requirements. This type of meal incorporates a wide range of nutrients, textures, and flavors in a single dish.
