Meal: Vegan Protein Bliss Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of quinoa (cooked)
- 1 cup of chickpeas (canned, rinsed and drained)
- 2 cups of kale (de-stemmed, washed and roughly chopped)
- 1 cup of tofu (extra firm, cubed)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 clove of garlic (minced)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
For the dressing:
- 2 tablespoons of tahini
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons of maple syrup
- Water (as needed)
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 30g
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the tofu in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a splash of soy sauce and some black pepper. Spread it evenly over a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until crispy.
- While your tofu is baking, prepare a pan on medium heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook until golden, then add the chickpeas, salt and pepper. Cook until crispy.
- In a bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the dressing, adding water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Toss your chopped kale in a bowl with your remaining tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Use your hands to massage the kale until it’s tender and a darker green.
- Once all your components are ready, assemble your bowl. Begin with your cooked quinoa as the base, evenly distribute your crispy tofu and chickpeas, and add your massaged kale.
- Drizzle your tahini dressing over your bowl just before serving.
Plating:
Begin with a base of quinoa at the bottom of a deep bowl. The crispy tofu, chickpeas, and massaged kale should be arranged in separate sections on top of the quinoa for a visually appealing contrast of colours and textures. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the top as a beautiful finish. The Vegan Protein Bliss Bowl should present a balanced visual of different ingredients, displaying the various nutritious components while showcasing the particular freshness and appeal of a high-protein vegan meal.