Description

This Yummy Bowl is a hearty, customizable meal filled with savory grains, roasted vegetables, seasoned protein, and a creamy garlic tahini sauce. It’s the ultimate comforting dish that works for any day of the week. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding the family, this bowl is packed with flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

For the Bowl
2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
1 pound chicken thighs or beef strips, marinated
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce
1/3 cup tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 garlic clove, grated
3 tablespoons warm water (more as needed to thin)
Salt to taste

Optional Toppings
Sliced avocado
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Crumbled feta or shredded cheddar
Lemon wedges
Hot sauce

Instructions

Cook the rice
Prepare 2 cups of jasmine or brown rice according to package directions. Fluff with a fork and set aside. For extra flavor, cook in vegetable or chicken broth.
Roast the vegetables
Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes, broccoli florets, and red bell pepper with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
Cook the protein
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs or beef strips and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from heat and slice into bite-sized pieces. For a vegetarian option, pan-fry tofu cubes or sauté canned chickpeas with garlic and spices.
Make the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, grated garlic, and warm water. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add more water as needed to reach a pourable consistency. Season with salt to taste.
Assemble the bowls
Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls. Top with roasted vegetables and cooked protein. Drizzle generously with tahini sauce. Add any optional toppings you like—such as avocado, green onions, or sesame seeds. Serve warm.

Notes

Protein options: Use grilled shrimp, salmon, ground turkey, or a plant-based option like tempeh or chickpeas.

Vegetables: Any combination of roasted or sautéed veggies works well—try zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, kale, or Brussels sprouts.

Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce or sprinkle over the bowl before serving.

Tahini substitute: Use Greek yogurt, hummus, or cashew cream if tahini isn’t available.

Meal prep: Store rice, veggies, and protein in separate containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep sauce in a small jar and drizzle just before eating.

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 30