Buddha Bowl Recipe Vegetarian Indian Style Made Easy

Discover the vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness of a Vegetarian Indian Buddha Bowl—a perfect blend of nutritious ingredients and aromatic spices that will leave your taste buds dancing. This bowl is not just a meal; it’s a colorful celebration of Indian cuisine fused with the nourishing concept of a Buddha bowl.

Packed with protein-rich legumes, fresh vegetables, fragrant basmati rice, and a drizzle of tangy tamarind chutney, this recipe is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, filling, and flavorful vegetarian dish.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just exploring plant-based meals, this Buddha bowl is incredibly versatile and easy to make. It brings together the best of Indian spices and textures, giving you a balanced meal that fuels your body and satisfies your cravings.

Plus, it’s great for meal prep and packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to prepare it step by step!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vegetarian Indian Buddha Bowl is a nutritious powerhouse that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Here’s why it stands out:

• Balanced Nutrition: Combines protein from chickpeas and lentils with fiber-rich vegetables and whole grains.
• Vibrant Flavors: Infused with traditional Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala for an authentic taste.
• Easy & Customizable: Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, and you can swap ingredients based on your pantry.
• Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly: Completely plant-based with no compromise on taste or satisfaction.
• Colorful & Instagram-Worthy: A feast for the eyes and the palate, making healthy eating exciting.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked basmati rice
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, rinsed)
• 1 cup cooked moong dal (yellow split mung beans)
• 1 medium carrot, julienned or grated
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup steamed spinach
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
• 1 small green chili, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp olive oil or ghee
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp tamarind chutney (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp plain yogurt or vegan yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan for cooking rice
• Small pot for cooking moong dal
• Skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving bowl or deep plate
• Spoon for drizzling chutney and mixing

Instructions

1. Cook the basmati rice: Rinse 1 cup of basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a saucepan, add rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the moong dal: Rinse 1/2 cup moong dal thoroughly. In a small pot, add dal and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until soft but not mushy. Drain excess water if any, and season with salt.
3. Sauté the chickpeas and spices: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil or ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tsp cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds. Add cooked chickpeas, 1 tsp coriander powder, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp garam masala, and salt to taste. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing spices to coat the chickpeas nicely.
4. Prepare the vegetables: While chickpeas cook, chop the carrot, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and green chili. Steam the spinach lightly until wilted.
5. Assemble the Buddha bowl: In a large bowl, start with a base of cooked rice. Arrange the sautéed chickpeas, cooked moong dal, steamed spinach, carrot, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion in sections on top of the rice. This creates the signature colorful and compartmentalized look of a Buddha bowl.
6. Add fresh touches: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds over the bowl for freshness and texture.
7. Finish with dressing: Drizzle 1 tbsp tamarind chutney and lemon juice evenly over the bowl. Add a dollop of plain or vegan yogurt if desired for creaminess.
8. Serve immediately: Mix gently before eating to combine all the flavors or enjoy each section individually to savor the distinct tastes.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For extra protein, add roasted paneer cubes or tofu marinated in Indian spices.

Variation: Swap basmati rice with quinoa or millet for a gluten-free or different grain option.

Tip: Use leftover cooked legumes and rice to save time during busy weekdays.

Variation: Include roasted sweet potatoes or spiced cauliflower for additional texture and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Vegetarian Indian Buddha Bowl shines on its own as a complete meal, but you can enhance your dining experience by pairing it with:

• A side of warm Muthiya Kadhi for a tangy yogurt-based curry complement.
• Freshly baked Honey Raisin Challah or warm naan bread to scoop up the delicious components.
• A refreshing beverage like Jawa Juice to cleanse your palate.
• For a sweet finish, try the delightful Lemon Straws Recipe for a zesty dessert.

Conclusion

This Vegetarian Indian Buddha Bowl combines the best of wholesome ingredients and vibrant spices to create a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Perfect for those seeking a balanced, plant-based meal, it offers a fantastic way to enjoy Indian flavors in a modern, healthy format.

Its colorful presentation, ease of preparation, and adaptability make it a wonderful addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this Buddha bowl is sure to impress and satisfy. Embrace the harmony of taste and nutrition with every bite, and don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.

For more inspiring recipes that bring diverse flavors to your table, explore our collection including the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe and the fresh Halibut Dip Recipe. Happy cooking!

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