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Fermented Vegetable Bowl Grain

Featured in: Tasty Travels

This nourishing bowl combines hearty grains with tangy kimchi and fresh vegetables for bold flavor and satisfying texture. Edamame or tofu add protein, while a savory sesame ginger dressing ties everything together. Garnish with nori, sesame seeds, and chili flakes for depth. The fusion of Korean-inspired fermented vegetables and crisp produce makes this bowl ideal for a wholesome lunch or dinner. Easily adaptable for vegan or vegetarian diets and customizable with alternative grains or proteins. Serve fresh with your favorite drink for a lively, balanced meal.

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Updated on Mon, 03 Nov 2025 10:24:00 GMT
Vibrant fermented vegetable bowl topped with tangy kimchi and fresh greens. Save
Vibrant fermented vegetable bowl topped with tangy kimchi and fresh greens. | fryflick.com

A vibrant, nourishing bowl featuring tangy kimchi, fresh seasonal vegetables, hearty grains, and a flavorful dressing is perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.

I made this bowl for my family during a busy week and it was an instant hit. The layers of flavor and texture are so satisfying that even the pickiest eaters came back for seconds.

Ingredients

  • Brown rice or quinoa: 1 cup (180 g), uncooked
  • Water: 2 cups (480 ml)
  • Salt: 1/2 tsp
  • Kimchi: 1 cup (150 g), chopped (ensure vegetarian if needed)
  • Sauerkraut: 1/2 cup (75 g, optional)
  • Carrots: 1 cup (100 g), shredded
  • Cucumber: 1 cup (80 g), sliced
  • Baby spinach or mixed greens: 1 cup (60 g)
  • Avocado: 1, sliced
  • Radishes: 2, thinly sliced
  • Scallions: 1/4 cup (15 g), sliced
  • Edamame or firm tofu: 1 cup (160 g), cooked or cubed
  • Soy sauce or tamari: 2 tbsp
  • Toasted sesame oil: 1 tbsp
  • Rice vinegar: 1 tbsp
  • Maple syrup or honey: 1 tsp
  • Fresh ginger: 1 tsp, grated
  • Garlic clove: 1 small, minced
  • Toasted sesame seeds: 1 tbsp
  • Nori: 1 sheet, sliced (optional)
  • Chili flakes: optional

Instructions

Cook the Grains:
Rinse grains and cook with water and salt according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Vegetables:
Shred carrots, slice cucumber, avocado, radishes, and scallions.
Prepare the Protein:
If using tofu, pat dry and cube. Optionally, pan-sear tofu in a nonstick pan over medium heat with a splash of oil until golden on all sides.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, ginger, and garlic.
Assemble the Bowl:
Divide cooked grains among four bowls. Arrange kimchi, sauerkraut (if using), fresh vegetables, and protein on top of grains.
Finish and Serve:
Drizzle each bowl with dressing. Garnish with sesame seeds, nori, and chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Delicious fermented vegetable bowl featuring avocado, hearty grains, and colorful veggies. Save
Delicious fermented vegetable bowl featuring avocado, hearty grains, and colorful veggies. | fryflick.com

This recipe has become a staple in our kitchen because my kids love creating their own bowls with their favorite toppings and veggies.

Recipe Notes

For a vegan version, use maple syrup in the dressing and ensure all fermented vegetables are free from animal products and fish sauce.

Allergen Information

This bowl contains soy and sesame; always double-check ingredient labels if you have allergies.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides about 350 calories, 10 g fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 11 g protein.

Healthy fermented vegetable bowl drizzled with homemade dressing and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Save
Healthy fermented vegetable bowl drizzled with homemade dressing and sprinkled with sesame seeds. | fryflick.com

This bowl offers a nourishing, flavorful meal that is easy to customize for any taste. Enjoy making it your own and sharing with loved ones.

Recipe Guide

→ What grains work best for this bowl?

Brown rice and quinoa are both excellent choices. You may also use farro, barley, or cauliflower rice for variety.

→ Can kimchi be substituted for other fermented vegetables?

Yes, sauerkraut or pickled vegetables can be used to add tang and flavor diversity.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Use maple syrup, ensure kimchi is vegan, and opt for tofu or edamame as protein sources.

→ What dressings complement the bowl?

A sesame ginger dressing made with soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and fresh ginger enhances the flavors.

→ Are there non-vegetarian protein options?

For a non-vegetarian twist, add grilled chicken or a soft-boiled egg in place of tofu or edamame.

→ How can I ensure the bowl is gluten-free?

Choose tamari instead of soy sauce and verify all ingredient labels for gluten content.

Fermented Vegetable Bowl Grain

Hearty grains, tangy kimchi, fresh vegetables, and flavorful dressing create a vibrant fusion bowl.

Prep duration
20 min
Cook duration
25 min
Complete duration
45 min
Created by Olivia Parker


Complexity Easy

Heritage Korean-inspired Fusion

Output 4 Portions

Dietary guidelines Meat-free, No dairy

Components

Grains

01 1 cup brown rice or quinoa, uncooked
02 2 cups water
03 1/2 teaspoon salt

Fermented Vegetables

01 1 cup kimchi, chopped (verify vegetarian if required)
02 1/2 cup sauerkraut (optional, for variety)

Fresh Vegetables

01 1 cup shredded carrots
02 1 cup cucumber, sliced
03 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
04 1 avocado, sliced
05 2 radishes, thinly sliced
06 1/4 cup scallions, sliced

Protein (optional)

01 1 cup cooked edamame or firm tofu, cubed

Dressing

01 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
02 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
03 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
04 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
05 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
06 1 small garlic clove, minced

Toppings

01 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
02 1 sheet nori, sliced (optional)
03 Chili flakes (optional)

Method

Phase 01

Cook Grains: Rinse brown rice or quinoa thoroughly. Combine with water and salt in a medium saucepan, and cook according to package instructions—approximately 25 minutes for rice and 15 minutes for quinoa. When grains are tender, fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly.

Phase 02

Prepare Fresh Ingredients: Shred carrots and slice cucumber, avocado, radishes, and scallions using a chef's knife and cutting board.

Phase 03

Prepare Protein: If including tofu, pat dry and cube; optionally, pan-sear in a nonstick pan with a small amount of oil over medium heat until golden on all sides.

Phase 04

Prepare Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce or tamari, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup or honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until fully combined.

Phase 05

Assemble Bowl: Divide cooked grains evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange kimchi, sauerkraut (if using), fresh vegetables, and protein on top of the grains.

Phase 06

Dress and Garnish: Drizzle bowls with prepared dressing. Top each portion with toasted sesame seeds, nori, and chili flakes as desired.

Phase 07

Serving: Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

Tools needed

  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Whisk

Allergy details

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains soy from soy sauce, tofu, edamame, and potentially kimchi.
  • Contains sesame in oil and seeds.
  • Kimchi may contain shellfish or fish sauce; confirm ingredient labels for vegetarian or vegan compliance.
  • Opt for tamari to achieve gluten-free preparation if preferred.
  • Always check product labels to accommodate dietary sensitivities.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - please consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 350
  • Fats: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54 g
  • Proteins: 11 g