Ingredients

For the Sauce

30 grams (1 ounce) cashews
2 sprigs of basil (about 20 leaves)
20 milliliters (1.4 tablespoons) coconut milk
50 milliliters (1.7 ounces) water
1 clove of garlic
1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) cold-pressed oil (sesame recommended)
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Lentils

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

Cook the Tofu

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

Prepare the Broccoli

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

Chop the Vegetables

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

Make the Sauce

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

Assemble the Bowl

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 and Enjoy

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

Imagine a beautifully plated dish adorned with the colors of fresh vegetables and vibrant greens 🌈. Serve this balanced plate as a main course, or pair it with whole grain pita or brown rice for an even heartier meal. To add a special touch, toss in some roasted nuts or seeds for an irresistible crunch. Drizzle extra sauce over the top for an eye-catching finish! 🍽️
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

Non-Stick Skillet

This is ideal for cooking tofu without it sticking. A good non-stick plan can make this process a lot smoother!

Variations

Gluten-Free & Vegan 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.

Nutrition facts

Balanced Vegan Bowl Recipe for Healthy Eating
Recipe Yield:2 servings
Calories:Approximately 450 to 550 calories per serving, depending on exact ingredient quantities.
Calories (Min - Max):450 - 550
Total Fat:25g
Saturated Fat:5g
Protein:24g
Total Carbohydrate:65g
Total Sugars:5g