Ingredients
Main Ingredients



For the Sauce






Instructions
Step 1
Start by rinsing 100 grams of lentils under cold water. Cook the lentils in a pot with plenty of water until they are tender, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess water and set aside.
Step 2
In a skillet, add 80 grams of tofu cut into cubes. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of paprika and a pinch of salt. Sauté the tofu over medium heat for about 5 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3
Take a head of broccoli and cut it into florets. In a separate pot, boil water and add the broccoli. Blanch for about 7 minutes until bright green and tender. Afterward, drain the hot water and let it cool.
Step 4
While the broccoli cools, chop your assorted vegetables including carrots, celery, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and any other favorites. Aim for a colorful array to enhance both flavor and nutrition.
Step 5
In a blender, combine 30 grams of soaked cashews, 2 sprigs of basil, 20 milliliters of coconut milk, 50 milliliters of water, 1 clove of garlic, and 1 tablespoon of cold-pressed oil. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more water if necessary, and season with salt to taste.
Step 6
In a serving bowl, layer the cooked lentils, sautéed tofu, blanched broccoli, chopped vegetables, 2 tablespoons of seeds, and a generous handful of dill. Drizzle with your prepared sauce and mix well.
Step 7
Serve your balanced vegan bowl immediately, and enjoy the mix of flavors and textures. Remember, for a touch of sweetness, choose whole fruits or berries as a dessert after the meal. Enjoy your healthy eating journey!
Servings
Sharing this meal with friends? Why not make it a fun potluck! Invite friends over to enjoy each other's versions of their favorite plant-based dishes. Everyone can create their own twist, combining flavors, textures, and bold colors to make a beautiful spread. Your balanced plate can be the star of the table! 🎉
Don't forget to include some fresh fruit or homemade vegan dessert to finish off your meal on a sweet note 🍓!
Equipment
For boiling lentils and blanching vegetables, ensure it has enough capacity to hold all your ingredients comfortably.



This is ideal for cooking tofu without it sticking. A good non-stick plan can make this process a lot smoother!
A blender is key for creating a creamy sauce from cashews and herbs. Make sure it’s strong enough to blend smooth textures.



Sharp knives will help you chop veggies quickly and efficiently! A sturdy chopping board is essential for safe slicing.



Variations
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply ensure that the grains used, like quinoa or amaranth, are certified gluten-free. 🥗
For those seeking more protein, consider adding some chickpeas or black beans instead of lentils or mix and match different beans for a variety of flavors! 🌰
If you're feeling adventurous, try using different nuts in the sauce, like almonds or macadamia nuts, to create a diverse taste profile. Just remember to check the allergy policies for your guests if you're serving others!
Faq
- What if I can't find tofu?
You can easily substitute tofu with tempeh, or even a mix of roasted chickpeas or another protein, like seitan if you’re not strictly vegan.
- How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are convenient and just as nutritious. Just be sure to thaw them properly before incorporating them into the dish.
- How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, blend in an additional 10-15 grams of cashews or include a small amount of starch, like cornstarch, mixed with water before blending.
- Can I prepare the components in advance?
Yes! You can cook the lentils and prep the vegetables a day ahead. Just store them separately until you're ready to assemble.
- What spices can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to experiment with spices! Cumin, smoked paprika, or even a dash of chili powder can enhance the flavor beautifully.