Peanut Chickpea Buddha Bowl

If you’re on the lookout for a nourishing, vibrant, and absolutely delicious meal, look no further than the Peanut Chickpea Buddha Bowl. This dish is a feast for the senses, marrying the crunchy textures of fresh vegetables with the creamy richness of peanut butter. Not only is it packed with protein and fiber, but it also comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a meal prep superstar. Each bite brings a balance of flavors that are sure to satisfy your cravings while providing your body with wholesome nutrients.

The Peanut Chickpea Buddha Bowl is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant ingredients that nourish both body and soul. Let’s dive into why this bowl deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

Reasons to Love Peanut Chickpea Buddha Bowl

• Balanced Nutrition: This bowl is loaded with protein from chickpeas and peanuts, fiber from vegetables and brown rice, and healthy fats from sesame and peanut butter, ensuring a well-rounded meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory, sweet, and spicy elements creates a delightful melody of flavors that will keep your taste buds dancing.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences, making it a versatile dish.
• Quick and Easy: With a simple preparation method, you can have this nourishing bowl ready in no time!
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 cup carrots, diced large
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
• 14 ounces garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (creamy, no sugar added)
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts (unsalted)
• 2 cups brown rice, cooked
• 2 cups spinach
• 1 cup bean sprouts

Setup & Equipment

• Large Pot: For cooking the brown rice.
• Large Skillet or Wok: To sauté and combine all the ingredients.
• Mixing Bowl: For preparing the sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Chef’s Knife: To chop vegetables.
• Spatula: For stirring and serving.

The Method for Peanut Chickpea Buddha Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Brown Rice

Begin by cooking your brown rice according to package instructions. This usually takes about 40-50 minutes. Once cooked, set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced carrots and broccoli florets, seasoning them with 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant and slightly crunchy.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, crushed red pepper, and peanut butter until smooth and well combined. This sauce will add an incredible depth of flavor to your bowl.

Step 4: Combine Chickpeas and Sauce

Add the drained chickpeas to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the sauce over the chickpeas and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and heat everything through.

Step 5: Assemble the Buddha Bowl

In serving bowls, start with a base of cooked brown rice. Top with the peanut chickpea mixture, followed by fresh spinach, bean sprouts, and a sprinkle of roasted peanuts for added crunch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Peanut Chickpea Buddha Bowl warm, garnished with any extra peanuts or a drizzle of soy sauce if desired. Enjoy this wholesome meal that’s bursting with flavor!

Year-Round Variations

• Swap out the brown rice for quinoa or farro for a different grain base.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers in the summer or Brussels sprouts in the fall.
• Add avocado slices for a creamy texture and extra healthy fats.
• For a protein boost, top with grilled chicken or tofu.

Testing Timeline

For optimal flavor and texture, consider the following timeline:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Peanut Chickpea Buddha Bowl is perfect for meal prep! You can store the components separately in airtight containers. The cooked brown rice, chickpea mixture, and toppings will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the chickpea mixture and rice in the microwave, and top with fresh spinach and bean sprouts just before serving for optimal freshness.

Ask & Learn

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are convenient and save time. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before use to reduce sodium content.

What can I substitute for honey?

If you prefer a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar can be excellent substitutes for honey, maintaining the sweetness in the sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper in the sauce or drizzle some sriracha on top before serving.

Can I freeze the Peanut Chickpea Buddha Bowl?

While the ingredients can be frozen, it’s best to keep the fresh vegetables separate. The chickpea mixture and brown rice can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat and add the fresh toppings when ready to enjoy!

Similar Recipes

• Vegan Stuffed Peppers
• Vegan Buddha Bowl
• Simple Chickpea Salad
• Vegetable Bowl Recipe

Before You Go

The Peanut Chickpea Buddha Bowl is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines flavor, health, and satisfaction into one beautiful dish. Make it your own by experimenting with different vegetables and toppings, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. With its vibrant colors and nourishing ingredients, this bowl is sure to brighten up your day and bring joy to your table. Happy cooking!