Save to Pinterest A vibrant and wholesome bowl featuring plant-based meat alternatives, fresh vegetables, and bold seasonings. This colorful meal delivers a satisfying combination of protein, grains, and produce, inspired by global flavors and perfect for easy dining.
I first tried assembling a bowl like this after craving something hearty without using animal products. It amazed me how the flavors and textures rivaled classic bowls, and my family was pleasantly surprised by how filling and colorful it turned out.
Ingredients
- Plant-Based Protein: 400 g plant-based ground meat (soy, pea, or fava bean based), 1 tbsp olive oil
- Seasoning Blend: 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- Bowl Base & Toppings: 200 g cooked brown rice or quinoa, 1 large avocado sliced, 1 medium carrot julienned, 1 small cucumber thinly sliced, 100 g red cabbage shredded, 100 g cherry tomatoes halved, 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped, 1 lime cut into wedges
- Sauce: 3 tbsp vegan mayonnaise, 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste), 1 tsp lime juice
Instructions
- Sauté the Protein:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add plant-based ground meat and cook for 3 to 4 minutes while breaking apart with a spatula.
- Add Seasonings:
- Mix in minced garlic and all spices. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Soy Sauce Finish:
- Stir in soy sauce and cook another 2 minutes, ensuring the protein is coated and heated through. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Sauce:
- Whisk vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl to create a spicy mayo sauce.
- Assemble Bowls:
- Divide cooked rice or quinoa among 4 bowls and top each with seasoned plant-based meat.
- Add Fresh Toppings:
- Arrange avocado, carrot, cucumber, red cabbage, and cherry tomatoes around the protein.
- Drizzle Sauce & Garnish:
- Drizzle the spicy mayo sauce over bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Save to Pinterest Bowls like these are a favorite at our dinner table and even picky eaters enjoy customizing their own with various toppings. Watching everyone dig in and add extra lime or cilantro always brings a playful spirit to mealtimes.
Required Tools
Large skillet, spatula, cutting board, sharp knife, small mixing bowl, whisk
Allergen Information
Contains soy (from plant-based meat and soy sauce) and mustard (vegan mayo). May contain gluten if using regular soy sauce. Always check product packaging for possible allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 410, Total Fat 19 g, Carbohydrates 39 g, Protein 23 g
Save to Pinterest This bowl is vibrant, adaptable, and satisfying for lunch or dinner. Serve it fresh for a burst of color and taste in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different plant-based proteins?
Yes, try soy, pea, or fava bean ground meat. Choose your favorite brand or blend for best results.
- → What grains work for the bowl base?
Brown rice or quinoa are great bases, but cauliflower rice can be substituted for a lighter, lower-carb option.
- → How do I make the bowl gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check the plant-based meat and mayonnaise labels for gluten content.
- → What vegetables can I substitute?
Swap in seasonal favorites like bell peppers, radishes, or edamame to personalize your bowl and taste.
- → Is the sauce very spicy?
The sauce has a spicy kick from sriracha, but you can easily adjust the heat or omit it for a milder flavor.
- → What topping adds extra crunch?
Sprinkle toasted seeds or nuts on top to add delightful crunch and enhance the bowl’s texture.