We’ve always loved the Glory Bowl for its vibrant mix of hearty grains, fresh veggies, and that irresistible tahini dressing—it’s a wholesome favorite that originated in the laid-back kitchens of Canada’s West Coast. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a nourishing meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
As food enthusiasts, we’re excited to share our take on this classic, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re vegan or just seeking a flavorful bowl, it’ll become a staple in your routine.
Ingredients
In our Glory Bowl recipe, we combine wholesome, nutrient-packed ingredients to create a vibrant, satisfying meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Drawing from its West Coast roots, this dish features hearty grains, fresh veggies, and a creamy tahini dressing that ties everything together. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they’re typically prepared and assembled, with specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy and ease.
Grains
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice: We suggest rinsing it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, yielding about 3 cups cooked for a fluffy base.
Protein
- 14 ounces extra-firm tofu: Pressed and cubed into 1-inch pieces for a hearty, plant-based protein that absorbs flavors beautifully.
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Chopped into bite-sized pieces and steamed until tender-crisp for a vibrant green crunch.
- 2 medium carrots: Peeled and julienned for a sweet, colorful addition that adds texture and vitamins.
- 1 medium beet: Roasted and sliced thinly to provide an earthy sweetness and striking visual appeal.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Washed and roughly chopped to wilt slightly when added, boosting the bowl’s nutrient density.
Toppings and Dressing
- 1 ripe avocado: Sliced just before serving for creamy richness and healthy fats.
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds: Toasted lightly for a nutty topping that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- For the tahini dressing:
- 1/2 cup tahini: Whisked smooth as the base for our signature, creamy sauce.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Added for a savory umami kick.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: To balance flavors with natural sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced finely for a pungent, aromatic boost.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Freshly squeezed to add zesty acidity and brighten the dressing.
This selection ensures our Glory Bowl is not only simple to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors and essential nutrients, making it a go-to for healthy eating.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our flavorful Glory Bowl efficiently, we need a few key tools that streamline the process from cooking hearty brown rice to roasting vegetables and blending the tahini dressing. Having the right equipment ensures accuracy and ease, building on the fresh ingredients we’ve outlined.
Here’s a list of essential items, organized by their primary use:
- Pot (medium-sized): For boiling and simmering the uncooked brown rice to achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
- Baking sheet (rimmed, 13×18 inches): Ideal for roasting extra-firm tofu and vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and beets until they’re golden and crisp.
- Knife (chef’s knife) and cutting board: Crucial for precisely slicing and dicing fresh produce such as spinach and beets, ensuring even cooking and vibrant presentation.
- Blender or food processor: Necessary to smoothly blend the tahini dressing ingredients, including tahini, soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, and lemon juice, for a creamy, pourable consistency.
- Measuring cups and spoons (set): For accurate portioning of ingredients, helping us maintain the balance of flavors in every Glory Bowl.
- Mixing bowls (2-3, various sizes): Used to toss and combine components like roasted vegetables and tofu before assembling the final dish.
With these tools, we’re set to create a nutritious and delicious Glory Bowl that highlights its West Coast origins and wholesome appeal.
Instructions
We guide you through creating our vibrant Glory Bowl, building on the fresh ingredients and essential tools we’ve outlined, to deliver a nutritious, flavorful meal that’s simple and satisfying.
Prep the Ingredients
First, we gather and prepare the components for efficiency. Start by rinsing 1 cup of uncooked brown rice under cold water until it runs clear, then set it aside in a mixing bowl. Next, drain and press 8 ounces of extra-firm tofu between paper towels for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture, ensuring it crisps up perfectly during roasting.
For the vegetables, wash and chop 2 cups of broccoli florets, 2 medium carrots into thin matchsticks, 1 medium beet into thin slices, and 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves into bite-sized pieces. We also prepare the tahini dressing ingredients: measure out 1/4 cup of tahini, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1 minced garlic clove, and juice from 1 lemon, combining them in a separate bowl for quick blending later. This step sets the stage for the colorful, nutrient-packed layers that make our Glory Bowl a feast for the eyes and palate.
Cook the Components
We cook each element to enhance their natural flavors and textures. Begin by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot, then add the rinsed brown rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes until tender and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a nutty aroma.
While the rice cooks, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Cube the pressed tofu into 1-inch pieces, toss with 1 tablespoon of oil and a pinch of salt, then spread on half the baking sheet. On the other half, arrange the broccoli, carrots, and beet slices, drizzling with another 1 tablespoon of oil and seasoning lightly. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the tofu turns golden and crispy and the vegetables caramelize with a sweet, smoky edge that boosts the dish’s vibrant taste.
Finally, blend the tahini dressing in a food processor or blender: combine the measured tahini, soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, and lemon juice, then process until smooth and creamy, adjusting with a splash of water if needed for the perfect pourable consistency.
Assemble the Glory Bowl
With all components ready, we layer them into a harmonious bowl that showcases fresh colors and textures. Divide the cooked brown rice evenly among two serving bowls as the base, then top with the roasted tofu and vegetables for a warm, hearty contrast.
Add the fresh spinach on top for a crisp, green crunch, then drizzle generously with the creamy tahini dressing, allowing its nutty, tangy notes to tie everything together. For the final touch, sprinkle with optional toppings like sesame seeds or chopped nuts if desired, creating a balanced, nutrient-dense meal that’s as visually appealing as it is deliciously satisfying.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Glory Bowl recipe is its flexibility for meal prep, allowing us to save time while keeping flavors vibrant and nutrients intact. By preparing components in advance, we can assemble a fresh, hearty bowl in minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or on-the-go healthy eating.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We suggest focusing on elements that hold up well when stored, such as the brown rice, roasted tofu and vegetables, and tahini dressing. Here’s how we break it down:
- Cook the brown rice: Start by rinsing and boiling the rice as outlined in our earlier steps. Once cooled, portion it into airtight containers. This allows the nutty grains to stay fluffy and ready for layering.
- Roast the tofu and vegetables: Press and cube the extra-firm tofu, then chop vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and beets. Roast them on a rimmed baking sheet until tender and caramelized. Let them cool completely before storing in separate containers to preserve their crisp textures and vibrant colors.
- Prepare the tahini dressing: Blend the tahini with soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth. Transfer it to a sealed jar, where it will thicken slightly in the fridge, enhancing its creamy appeal for drizzling over fresh ingredients.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To maintain the Glory Bowl’s fresh taste and nutritional value, proper storage is key. We recommend the following guidelines, summarized in the table below for quick reference:
| Component | Storage Method | Duration (Days) | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked brown rice | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 5 | Reheat in microwave for 1-2 minutes or on stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture. |
| Roasted tofu and vegetables | Separate airtight containers in fridge | Up to 4 | Warm in oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to recrisp edges, avoiding sogginess. |
| Tahini dressing | Sealed jar in fridge | Up to 7 | Stir well before use; no reheating needed, as it maintains its silky texture when chilled. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure every Glory Bowl remains a delicious, nutrient-packed meal that supports our healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or convenience. Always check for freshness before assembling to enjoy the best results.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve joined us on this Glory Bowl journey. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a simple path to vibrant, nourishing meals that energize our days.
Make it yours and let us know how it brightens your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Glory Bowl?
A Glory Bowl is a nutritious, hearty dish from Canada’s West Coast, featuring grains, fresh veggies, and a creamy tahini dressing. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for healthy eating, whether you’re vegan or not. This meal combines roasted elements with fresh ingredients for a balanced, flavorful option that’s easy to make and customize.
What ingredients are needed for a Glory Bowl?
Key ingredients include uncooked brown rice, extra-firm tofu, and veggies like broccoli, carrots, beets, and spinach. Toppings might include seeds or nuts, while the tahini dressing uses tahini, soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, and lemon juice. This mix ensures vibrant flavors and essential nutrients for a wholesome meal.
How do you prepare and cook a Glory Bowl?
Start by rinsing rice and pressing tofu, then chop veggies. Cook rice by boiling, roast tofu and veggies on a baking sheet, and blend the tahini dressing. Assemble by layering rice, roasted items, fresh spinach, and dressing. The process is straightforward and takes about 45-60 minutes for a fresh, satisfying dish.
What equipment is required to make a Glory Bowl?
You’ll need a medium pot for rice, a rimmed baking sheet for roasting, a chef’s knife for chopping, a blender or food processor for the dressing, measuring cups and spoons, and mixing bowls. These basics make preparation efficient and help create this healthy meal with minimal hassle.
Can I make a Glory Bowl ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components like rice, roasted tofu and veggies, and tahini dressing in advance for easy meal prep. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This flexibility allows you to assemble a fresh bowl quickly, maintaining flavors and nutrients for busy lifestyles.
How should I store and reheat the Glory Bowl?
Store components in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat rice and roasted items in the microwave or oven until warm, avoiding sogginess. Keep fresh spinach separate and add dressing just before serving to preserve crispness and taste for a nutritious, ready-to-eat meal.
Is the Glory Bowl suitable for vegans?
Absolutely, the Glory Bowl is vegan-friendly as it uses plant-based ingredients like brown rice, tofu, veggies, and tahini dressing without any animal products. It’s packed with nutrients and can be customized for added protein or flavors, making it a great option for vegan diets or anyone seeking healthy meals.