A Buddha Bowl is a vibrant and nourishing dish typically composed of a variety of grains, vegetables, protein, and dressing. The “Kodai” in “Kodai Buddha Bowl” suggests that it might be inspired by or include ingredients commonly found in the Kodagu (Coorg) region of Karnataka, India. Here’s a recipe for a Kodai Buddha Bowl:
Ingredients:
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
- 1 cup cooked black beans or chickpeas
- 1 cup mixed greens (spinach, kale, arugula, etc.)
- 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup roasted cauliflower florets
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced radishes
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds (for crunch)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Grains and Legumes:
- Cook quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions.
- If using dried black beans or chickpeas, soak them overnight, then cook until tender. Alternatively, you can use canned beans, rinsed and drained.
- Roast the Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss sweet potatoes and cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and golden brown.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, maple syrup or honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust water for desired consistency.
- Assemble the Buddha Bowl:
- Divide cooked grains, legumes, mixed greens, roasted sweet potatoes, cauliflower, sliced avocado, radishes, and pomegranate seeds among serving bowls.
- Drizzle the tahini dressing over the bowls.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious and delicious Kodai Buddha Bowl!
Feel free to customize the Buddha Bowl with your favorite vegetables, grains, proteins, and dressings according to your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
