If you’ve spent more than 30 seconds on Instagram, you’ve definitely seen a Buddha Bowl . Or maybe two hundred. These artistically prepared bowls bursting with bright colors seem to be the latest culinary rage among influencers, those people who spend half their time taking photos of what they eat and the other half taking photos of themselves. But, even if you are not the type of person who is interested in publishing their diet on the networks, you can also make and enjoy these unique, nutritious and very complete dishes that are the Buddah Bowls. And, contrary to what the 152,317 photos with the hashtag #buddhabowl may have you believe, they don’t have to go through the Amaro filter to be rich.
What are Buddah Bowls?
A buddha bowl is a healthy, combined, balanced and nutrient-packed dish that helps us stay energetic and healthy. It is a meal that can be enjoyed at lunch or dinner. And, following their basic guidelines, even at breakfast and snack since the combinations can be endless. In addition, buddah bowls are perfect for athletes , since in a single meal, very easy to prepare, they provide the proteins, vitamins, hydrates and nutrients that the body needs when it is exercising .
The origin of the Buddah Bowls
According to Dan Zigmond, a Zen priest and author of the famous book ” The Buddha’s Diet, ” the name Buddha Bowl could have a very literal origin. Zigmond says that Buddha got up before dawn every morning carrying his bowl to the places where he later stayed. The locals would put food in the bowl as a donation, and in the end he would eat what they had given him. So that was the original Buddha Bowl: a large bowl with the food that the villagers had available and could afford to share .
So… what is a Buddah Bowl? Well, it depends on you: it is enough that it is colorful, healthy and that it is in a bowl . In fact, you don’t even have to call them that: these dishes have more names than millions in Swiss corrupt politicians. They are also known as “hippie bowls”, “power bowls” or “macro bowls”. A quick glance through google or any social network with these hashtags will give you a lot of ideas on how to prepare yours. The key is to let your creativity fly, as long as you use foods that provide color, texture and vitamins .
How to prepare a Buddah Bowl?
You do not have to be a great expert in the kitchen to prepare them, and there are many options so that they do not become monotonous dishes: the goal is to create a nutritious and balanced dish, which includes vegetables, cereals, proteins and a good dressing . The basic formula is to start with the base ingredient of your choice, often carbohydrates, green leafy vegetables, or both. Then you have to add a variety of ingredients that usually include diced or sliced vegetables. The final components are a source of protein, and a seasoning with a powerful flavor.
Basic ingredients of the Buddah Bowl
- Cooked or raw vegetables: broccoli, cauliflower, cucumber, zucchini, pumpkin, carrots, radishes, tomato, sweet potatoes, etc .;
- Green leaves: spinach, chard, mixed lettuce leaves, tender shoots;
- Cereals: brown rice, quinoa, wheat, barley, corn;
- Proteins: cheese, eggs, smoked or preserved fish, lean meat, chickpeas, lentils, etc.
To complete this exquisite plate of superfoods, we must take into account its presentation . Generally, the main idea is to opt for bowls or deep plates and accompany them with nuts and seeds . Although you can find many Buddha Bowl recipes on the Internet, this food is made for improvisation and customization based on what you have on hand and the combination of ingredients that you like the most. The only thing you need to worry about is how to best photograph it for Instagram.
