Nutfruit Blog

First of all, what is a Buddha Bowl?

A Buddha Bowl is a one-dish meal served in a bowl consisting in a balanced meal. Balance is a key concept for Buddhists so the name of “Buddha Bowl” may originate from here. For a balanced meal, we understand a meal that contains most of the nutrients that our body needs. So, this dish should contain micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), which we obtain from vegetables and fruits, plus the three macronutrients: carbohydrates, protein (animal or vegetable) and healthy fats such as those found in nuts.

Nutrition properties of Buddha Bowls

As we mentioned, a Buddha Bowl should contain all the macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins and fats) that we need to eat every day. Carbohydrates and fats provide us with the energy that we need to keep up with the day while protein contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and muscle mass. Micronutrients, such as minerals and vitamins, that we obtain from vegetables and fruits, play a key role in maintaining our overall health with some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin B6, selenium, zinc, iron and copper contributing to the normal function of the immune system. For that reason, a Buddha Bowl is a perfect dish for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

What do you need to make a delicious Buddha Bowl?

1. Vegetables: Pick up a bunch of green leaves (mix of lettuces, kale, broccoli, spinach etc.) or the vegetables that you like most. Try to mix two or three different color veggies, not only will your Buddha Bowl will be more colorful but you’ll get an added variety of vitamins and minerals. Also, you can choose between raw or cooked veggies.
2. Carbohydrates: whole wheat pasta, brown rice, quinoa, bulgur, potato, etc. Boil one portion of pasta, rice or the cereal that you prefer. For a breakfast bowl, you can add oats or sugar-free muesli.
3. Protein: Add some animal protein (fish, lean meat or egg) or vegetable protein (tofu, tempeh, legumes, etc.). If you are preparing a breakfast bowl, you can add yogurt, milk or any vegetable drink, such as soya, rice, oat or nut drink.
4. Fats: Add some healthy fats, such as nuts, avocado, olives, or olive oil as a dressing.
5. Toppings: You can add whatever you like most. Some fruit, seeds or a mix of nuts and dried fruits.
6. Dressing: from the classic one, extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, to peanut sauce, tahini, yogurt and mint sauce, try a different one every day!