Pin It The first time I made this bowl, I'd just come home from a long trip and my fridge was completely bare except for a random assortment of vegetables and a jar of peanut butter shoved in the back. Sometimes the best meals happen that way, when you stop overthinking and just start throwing things into bowls together.
I brought these bowls to a friend's backyard potluck last summer, and people kept asking me for the recipe while hovering around the serving table. There's something about the combination of warm rice, cool crisp vegetables, and that creamy peanut sauce that makes people genuinely happy.
Ingredients
- Brown rice: The nutty flavor and chewy texture hold up beautifully against all the fresh vegetables
- Chickpeas: These little legumes add satisfying protein and a hearty bite that makes the bowl feel substantial
- Roasted peanuts: Use unsalted ones so you can control the seasoning, and toast them briefly for extra crunch
- Shredded carrot and cabbage: The colors alone make this bowl gorgeous, plus they stay crisp even after dressing
- Creamy peanut butter: The backbone of the sauce, natural peanut butter gives the best authentic flavor
- Fresh ginger and garlic: These aromatics transform the dressing from good to absolutely incredible
Instructions
- Get the rice going first:
- Rinse your brown rice until the water runs clear, then simmer it gently with a pinch of salt for about 30 minutes until each grain is tender but still has a slight chew.
- Whisk up that magic peanut dressing:
- Combine your peanut butter with soy sauce, something sweet like maple syrup, and the tang of rice vinegar, then add warm water until it flows like warm honey.
- Turn vegetables into confetti:
- Shred your carrots and cabbage into colorful ribbons, slice your cucumber into thin coins, and scatter everything across your cutting board like you're prepping for a celebration.
- Build your bowls:
- Scoop that warm rice into four bowls, then arrange the chickpeas and all those gorgeous vegetables in sections on top.
- Bring it all together:
- Drizzle that peanut sauce generously over everything, letting it cascade into all the nooks and crannies, then finish with scallions, cilantro, and a handful of peanuts.
Pin It This recipe became my go-to for those nights when I want something nourishing but don't have the energy for anything complicated. There's peace in a meal that comes together so simply yet tastes so vibrant and alive.
Making It Your Own
The beauty of this bowl lies in how adaptable it is to whatever you have on hand or what's in season at the market. I've made countless versions depending on my mood and the contents of my crisper drawer.
Perfect Rice Every Time
I used to struggle with brown rice coming out mushy or undercooked until I learned to resist the urge to lift the lid and peek. Letting it steam undisturbed for those final five minutes after cooking makes all the difference between okay rice and perfectly fluffy grains.
The Art of Balance
A truly great bowl hits all the right notes, warm against cool, creamy against crunchy, and sweet against salty. This is where that dressing really earns its keep, tying together the earthy rice and bright fresh vegetables into something cohesive.
- Taste your dressing before adding it to the bowls, adjusting with more vinegar or sweetener as needed
- Don't be afraid to add extra peanuts for that satisfying crunch in every bite
- These bowls keep beautifully in the fridge, but pack the dressing separately if taking them for lunch
Pin It There's something deeply satisfying about eating from a bowl filled with so many colors and textures. It's the kind of meal that leaves you feeling nourished in every way that matters.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. The bowl components store well separately in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Keep the dressing in a sealed container and toss everything together when ready to serve.
- → What can I substitute for peanut butter?
Try almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nutty alternative. Tahini also works well for a slightly different flavor profile.
- → Is this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. All other ingredients including rice, chickpeas, and vegetables are naturally gluten-free.
- → How can I add more protein?
Add diced tofu, edamame, or grilled chicken. You could also increase the chickpeas to 2 cups or sprinkle with hemp seeds before serving.
- → Can I use other grains?
Quinoa, farro, or jasmine rice work beautifully. Adjust cooking time according to grain package directions.
- → What vegetables work best?
Bell pepper, snap peas, shredded Brussels sprouts, or roasted sweet potato complement the peanut flavors beautifully.