A colorful Umami Glow Bowl filled with nutritious ingredients and vibrant colors.

Umami Glow Bowl

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Umami Glow Bowl is a delicious and healthy meal packed with vibrant colors and flavors. This recipe combines various fresh ingredients that not only taste great but also provide essential nutrients. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a filling dinner. Making this bowl is also an excellent way to enjoy a variety of textures and tastes in one dish.

How to Make Umami Glow Bowl

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups cooked short-grain brown rice (cooled)
  • 0.75 cup shelled edamame (thawed)
  • 1 small avocado (approx. 150g, cubed)
  • 0.75 cup shredded carrots
  • 0.75 cup thinly sliced radishes
  • 0.75 cup toasted nori sheets (crumbled or cut into strips)
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (tamari)
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
  • Toasted white and black sesame seeds

Directions:

  1. Shake the Vinaigrette: In a small screw-top jar, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, toasted sesame oil, and freshly grated ginger. Seal the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the mixture is well mixed.

  2. Prepare the Crisp Vegetables: Use a vegetable peeler or grater to shred the carrots. Slice the radishes into thin, crisp rounds with a chef’s knife. Set them aside.

  3. Ready the Creamy & Savory Elements: Just before you serve, carefully cube the avocado. To keep it fresh and prevent browning, toss it with a few drops of the vinaigrette. Crumble the toasted nori sheets into bite-sized pieces with your hands.

  4. Build the Foundation: Divide the cooled short-grain brown rice evenly into three serving bowls, creating a base layer at the bottom.

  5. Artfully Arrange Toppings: Arrange the shredded carrots, sliced radishes, thawed edamame, and cubed avocado in separate sections on top of the rice base.

  6. Garnish and Serve: Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of the mirin-ginger vinaigrette over each bowl. Finish by scattering the crumbled nori and some toasted sesame seeds over the top. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Umami Glow Bowl

Serve the Umami Glow Bowl fresh and warm. It works well as a standalone dish or as a side to grilled protein like chicken or fish. You can also enjoy it with additional sauces or dressings if desired.

How to Store Umami Glow Bowl

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to eat. This will help keep the vegetables fresh and prevent the rice from getting soggy.

Tips to Make Umami Glow Bowl

  • Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavors.
  • Experiment with different vegetables, like cucumber or bell peppers, to add variety.
  • If you like a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Variation

You can easily make this bowl vegan by ensuring that all your ingredients are plant-based. You can also swap the brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

FAQs

1. Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vinaigrette a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a shake before using.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure that you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for the vinaigrette.

3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them right before serving to keep everything fresh.