There’s something deeply satisfying about a meal that bursts with flavor and color while keeping things simple and nourishing. That’s exactly what I found when I created these Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls. Picture this: a vibrant blend of crunchy veggies, creamy avocado, spicy kimchi’s tantalizing tang, and marinated tempeh that adds a delightful nuttiness. This bowl isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a celebration of plant-based goodness that comes together effortlessly, perfect for those seeking a refreshing break from fast food.
After a whirlwind of a workday, I needed something quick yet wholesome, and this dish became my ultimate solution. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or looking for a speedy dinner option, these bliss bowls can be whipped up in no time, making them an ideal companion for your busy lifestyle. Plus, they offer the flexibility to swap in your favorite ingredients, ensuring every bite is as unique as you are. Ready to dive into a delicious bowl of health? Let’s get started!
Why are Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls perfect?
Flavor-Packed: Each bite boasts a rich combination of spicy kimchi and nutty tempeh, making for a delightful taste explosion.
Quick to Prepare: The recipe boasts minimal prep time—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.
Versatile Options: Easily substitute tempeh with tofu or chickpeas, allowing you to customize based on your preference.
Nourishing and Wholesome: A beautifully balanced mix of crunchy veggies and creamy avocado makes this a nutritious choice.
Give your meal routine a healthy twist with these bliss bowls for an exciting change from boring fast food!
Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls Ingredients
For the Base
• Cooked Brown Rice – Acts as the hearty foundation, providing sturdy texture and energy.
• Kimchi – Infuses the dish with spicy and tangy notes; opt for a vegan version for plant-based bliss.
For the Veggies
• Persian Cucumber – Adds a refreshing crunch; substitute with any cucumber variety available.
• Red Cabbage – Brightens the bowl with color and crunch, enhancing both taste and texture.
• Avocado – Provides creaminess and healthy fats; slice just before serving to prevent browning.
For the Protein
• Marinated Tempeh – Serves as the main protein, introducing a nutty flavor; swap for baked tofu or roasted chickpeas if desired.
For the Sauce
• Peanut Sauce – A rich, tangy dressing that ties all flavors together; use cashew butter if you have a peanut allergy.
For the Garnish
• Sesame Seeds – Adds a nutty finish and visual appeal.
• Thai Chiles – Optional spicy kick; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
• Lime Slices – Enhances overall flavor with a refreshing burst; serve on the side.
• Microgreens – A nutritional boost and pretty garnish, adding vibrant visual appeal.
Get ready to enjoy your Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls filled with delightful flavors and nourishing goodness!
How to Make Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls
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Cook the Rice: Begin by cooking the brown rice according to the package instructions. This should take about 30-40 minutes, depending on your rice type. Fluff with a fork once cooked!
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Steam the Tempeh: While the rice cooks, steam the tempeh for 10 minutes. This helps soften it before marinating, ensuring it’s packed with flavor after grilling or baking.
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Marinate the Tempeh: After steaming, marinate the tempeh in your favorite sauce (like soy sauce or a simple marinade). Allow it to soak for at least 15 minutes for maximum flavor impact.
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Grill or Bake the Tempeh: Preheat your grill or oven. Grill or bake the marinated tempeh until golden brown, roughly 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
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Assemble the Bowls: Start with a generous scoop of cooked brown rice as the base. Layer on spicy kimchi, refreshing cucumber ribbons, vibrant red cabbage, creamy avocado, and the grilled tempeh.
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Drizzle with Sauce: Finish off by drizzling the peanut sauce over the assembled bowls, adding a wonderful tangy flavor. Sprinkle sesame seeds and optional Thai chiles for an extra kick.
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Serve Fresh: Serve immediately with lime slices on the side for that zesty freshness! You can garnish with microgreens for added nutrients and a pop of color.
Optional: Try adding edamame or quick-pickled radishes for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the components up to 3 days in advance. Start by cooking the brown rice and marinating the tempeh; both can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Chop and prepare your veggies, like cucumber and cabbage, and refrigerate them as well. It’s best to slice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy your bliss bowls, simply reheat the rice and tempeh, layer the ingredients in a bowl, drizzle with peanut sauce, and indulge in a delicious, vibrant meal that’s just as enjoyable as if it were freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls
Fridge: Store assembled bowls without avocado in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This method preserves freshness while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Freezer: If you’re preparing a batch for future meals, freeze individual servings without the avocado for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the microwave or a skillet until warmed through. Add fresh avocado just before serving for that creamy finish.
Make-Ahead: These Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls are perfect for meal prep! Just remember to add the avocado right before enjoying to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls Variations
Feel free to experiment with these delicious twists that elevate your Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls!
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Tofu Swap: Replace tempeh with crispy baked tofu for a light, equally delicious protein source that soaks up flavors beautifully.
Try marinating the tofu in a light soy sauce before baking to give it that extra flavor boost! -
Chickpea Zing: Use roasted chickpeas as a protein option for a delightful crunch and added fiber.
Roasting them with spices will elevate their flavor and make them a fantastic addition to your bowls! -
Tahini Twist: Substitute peanut sauce with creamy tahini for a nut-free, rich dressing that offers wonderful depth.
The nutty taste of tahini complements the flavors perfectly while keeping it allergen-friendly! -
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a fresh burst of flavors.
Feel free to mix in whichever veggies are currently crisp and vibrant at your local market! -
Grains Galore: Swap brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to change up the texture or add more nutrients.
This keeps your bowl light yet satisfying while offering new flavor profiles with each grain! -
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil to brighten the dish and introduce a fresh aroma.
These herbs will not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color to your beautiful bowls! -
Heat Level: Adjust the spice by adding sriracha or chili flakes if you prefer an extra kick.
Experimenting with different heat levels lets you tailor your meal to satisfy your unique palate. -
Garnish Game: Top with toasted nori strips or fried shallots for a crispy texture and emphasis on umami.
These vibrant garnishes will add an extra dimension of flavor, making each bite even more irresistible!
Tips for the Best Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls
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Marination Matters: Make sure to marinate the tempeh well. A good soak in your favorite sauce enhances flavor and tenderness, creating a more delicious dish.
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Texture Check: If substituting proteins, remember that tofu or chickpeas may require different cooking times, so adjust accordingly to achieve your preferred crispiness.
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Fresh is Best: Layer in avocado just before serving to maintain its creamy texture and bright color. This prevents browning and keeps your bowls visually appealing.
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Veggie Boost: Don’t hesitate to add extra veggies like edamame or quick-pickled radishes. These not only enhance flavor but also pack in additional nutrients, contributing to a wholesome meal.
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Serving Style: Serve right away for the best combination of flavors and textures. However, if prepping ahead, store bowls without avocado for up to three days, adding it just before enjoying.
Elevate your meal prep with these Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls, packed full of flavor!
What to Serve with Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls?
To create a delightful and satisfying meal experience, consider these flavorful companions that enhance the bliss of your bowl.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy rolls add a delightful texture contrast while complementing the vibrant flavors of the bowls.
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Spicy Edamame: Steamed and dusted with sea salt, these provide a protein-packed side dish that echoes the boldness of kimchi.
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Zesty Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw with a tangy dressing complements the richness of the bowls and adds extra crunch for a satisfying bite.
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Miso Soup: A warm, savory miso soup rounds out the meal beautifully, enhancing the umami notes that balance the kimchi’s spiciness.
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Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, a simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds brightness that counteracts the bowl’s richness.
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Sesame Soba Noodles: For an additional carb boost, these noodles lightened with sesame oil make a great pairing and can soak up any leftover sauce.
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Fruit Salad: A side of vibrant fruit to cleanse the palate adds a sweet touch, balancing the savory aspects of your meal perfectly.
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Iced Green Tea: Pair your bowls with the refreshing taste of iced green tea for a soothing drink that enhances this healthy dining experience.
Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls Recipe FAQs
What kind of kimchi should I use?
I recommend using a vegan kimchi like Mother In Law’s Vegan Kimchi to keep your Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls plant-based. Look for varieties that are fresh and packed with flavor; avoid kimchi with dark spots all over or that has a sour smell, as it may indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! You can store assembled bowls without avocado in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will ensure that the flavors meld beautifully without the avocado browning. If you’d like to keep them for a longer time, freezing is a great option because you can enjoy them later!
Can I freeze Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls?
Yes! To freeze, prepare individual servings without avocado and wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn. They can last for up to 1 month. Thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or a skillet until warmed through. Just remember to add fresh avocado before serving for that perfect creamy texture!
What should I do if my tempeh isn’t absorbing the marinade well?
If your tempeh isn’t soaking up flavor as it should, try slicing it into thinner pieces for better marination. Allow it to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes instead of just 15. Steaming it before marinating helps open up the tempeh’s texture, so it’ll soak up flavors much better.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
While this dish is a delicious, healthy option for humans, do keep in mind that some ingredients may not be safe for pets. For example, kimchi and peanut sauce can contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs and cats. Additionally, if you have nut allergies, substitute peanut sauce with a tahini sauce for added flavor without the worry!
What variations can I make to this recipe?
Very! You can easily swap the tempeh for crispy baked tofu or roasted chickpeas for a different protein source. Try adding seasonal veggies like edamame or quick-pickled radishes for an extra crunch. Experiment with different sauces as well!
Delicious Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls for Easy Meal Prep
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the brown rice according to package instructions, taking about 30-40 minutes.
- While the rice cooks, steam the tempeh for 10 minutes.
- Marinate the steamed tempeh in your favorite sauce for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill or bake the marinated tempeh until golden brown, roughly 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Assemble bowls with cooked brown rice as the base, adding kimchi, cucumber, red cabbage, avocado, and tempeh.
- Drizzle peanut sauce over the assembled bowls, sprinkling sesame seeds and optional Thai chiles.
- Serve immediately with lime slices and microgreens on the side.