Name: Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup shredded green cabbage; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/2 cup carrots, grated; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped (for garnish); 1/2 cup peanut butter; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Indulge in a nourishing bowl of flavor with the Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl! This vibrant dish is a delightful combination of earthy roasted sweet potatoes, fresh veggies, and a creamy, tantalizing peanut sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. It’s not only a feast for the senses but also an ideal choice for anyone pursuing a wholesome vegan lifestyle. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or just looking for a hassle-free dinner option, this Buddha bowl has you covered, with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

The heart of this recipe lies in its simplicity and health benefits. Sweet potatoes are renowned for their rich nutrient profile, including fiber and essential vitamins, while the assortment of vegetables adds crunch and freshness. Topped with protein-packed peanuts and a luscious peanut sauce, this bowl is deeply satisfying without weighing you down. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet. Enjoy the Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl as a nourishing lunch or a quick weeknight dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

Flavorful: The combination of roasted sweet potatoes and zesty peanut sauce creates a surprisingly delightful taste experience.
Healthy: Packed with nutrients and vegetables, this bowl is a great addition to a balanced diet.
Customizable: Easily modify the ingredients to cater to your personal tastes or dietary restrictions.
Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of just 45 minutes, this meal isn’t just delicious; it’s also quick to make.
Meal Prep Friendly: Great for preparing in advance, this Buddha bowl holds up well for lunches throughout the week.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting a head start on your Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl is crucial for an organized cooking experience. Begin by gathering all your ingredients: sweet potatoes, broccoli, green cabbage, avocado, carrots, cilantro, and peanuts. This will streamline your cooking process. For tools, you’ll need a baking sheet for roasting the sweet potatoes, a large mixing bowl for assembling the salad, and a small bowl for whisking the peanut sauce. Don’t forget a sharp knife for chopping, a cutting board, and measuring spoons for accuracy. Prepping your workspace helps avoid any last-minute rushes. Once everything is ready, your cooking will flow smoothly, and in no time, you’ll have a beautifully plated Buddha bowl ready to enjoy.

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup shredded green cabbage
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup carrots, grated
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup peanuts, chopped (for garnish)
1/2 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Vegetables

Start by prepping all your fresh ingredients. Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into even cubes for consistent cooking. Chop the broccoli into florets, slice the avocado neatly, and grate the carrots. Having everything prepped in advance will save time and make the assembly of the Buddha bowl a breeze.

Step 2: Roast Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden-brown and tender. Stir them halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting.

Step 3: Mix Your Vegetables

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, take a large mixing bowl and combine the broccoli florets, shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and sliced avocado. Toss them gently to mix then set the bowl aside. This colorful medley will provide the base of your Buddha bowl, offering both texture and nutrient diversity.

Step 4: Whisk the Peanut Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, and sesame oil until smooth and creamy. This sauce is the star of the dish, bringing together all the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more lime or soy sauce to suit your preference. A well-balanced peanut sauce makes a significant difference to the overall taste.

Step 5: Assemble Your Buddha Bowl

Once the sweet potatoes are roasted and cooled slightly, it’s time to assemble the bowls. Start with a generous portion of the mixed vegetables at the base, followed by a serving of roasted sweet potatoes. Drizzle your creamy peanut sauce generously over the top, and garnish with chopped cilantro and peanuts for an added crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

Protein: Add chickpeas or tofu for more protein, or try grilled tempeh for a fiber-rich addition.
Vegetables: Use seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas, depending on your preference.
Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding red pepper flakes for spice or fresh ginger for a zing.

Cooking Notes

Ensure sweet potatoes are cut evenly for uniform cooking during roasting.
Store leftover peanut sauce in the refrigerator; it will last for about a week.

Serving Suggestions

This Buddha bowl pairs excellently with a side of quinoa or brown rice for added heartiness.
Serve with a wedge of lime on the side to add a citrusy punch!

Tips

For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
Make the peanut sauce in advance for a quick and easy meal during busy weekdays.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

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

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
Protein: About 20g
Sodium: 550mg

FAQs

Can I make this Buddha bowl ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and the peanut sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the bowl.

What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to top your Buddha bowl with sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, or even a splash of sriracha for added spice!

Is the peanut sauce gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make the peanut sauce gluten-free; just check your peanut butter for any additional additives.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While the individual components can be frozen, the fresh veggies like avocado would not fare well. It’s best to enjoy this meal right after making it for optimal freshness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines wholesome ingredients with vibrant flavors perfect for any day of the week. With its quick preparation time and variety of healthy toppings, it’s an ideal recipe for both meal prep and casual dining. We encourage you to try out your own variations and let your creativity flourish in the kitchen! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences with this recipe in the comments below, and if you enjoyed it, feel free to share with your friends.