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Umami Glow Bowl

Capture the vibrant flavors of a sushi bar without the rolling. This deconstructed bowl pairs a savory mirin-ginger vinaigrette with fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and hearty brown rice for a satisfying, plant-powered meal.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Japanese-Inspired
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 3
Calories 367kcal

Ingredients

For the Bowls

  • 1 ½ cups cooked short-grain brown rice cooled
  • 1 ½ cups shelled edamame thawed
  • 1 small avocado approx. 150g, cubed
  • ¾ cup shredded carrots
  • ¾ cup thinly sliced radishes
  • ¾ cup toasted nori sheets crumbled or cut into strips

For the Mirin-Ginger Vinaigrette

  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar unseasoned
  • 1 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tsp freshly grated ginger

For Garnish

  • 1 tsp toasted white or black sesame seeds

Instructions

  • Shake the Vinaigrette: In a small screw-top jar, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, toasted sesame oil, and freshly grated ginger. Seal the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until the mixture is well emulsified.
  • Prepare the Crisp Vegetables: Using a vegetable peeler or grater, shred the carrots. With a chef's knife, slice the radishes into thin, crisp rounds. Set aside.
  • Ready the Creamy & Savory Elements: Just before serving, carefully cube the avocado. To prevent browning, you can toss it with a few drops of the vinaigrette. Crumble the toasted nori sheets with your hands into bite-sized pieces.
  • Build the Foundation: Divide the cooled short-grain brown rice evenly, creating a base layer at the bottom of your three serving bowls.
  • Artfully Arrange Toppings: Arrange the shredded carrots, sliced radishes, thawed edamame, and cubed avocado in distinct sections on top of the rice base.
  • Garnish and Serve: Drizzle the mirin-ginger vinaigrette evenly over each bowl. Finish by scattering the crumbled nori and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds over the top. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Strategy: The vinaigrette can be prepared up to 4 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The rice and vegetables (except the avocado) can be prepped and stored in separate airtight containers for up to 2 days. Assemble and dress just before eating for the best texture.
  • Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute the brown rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different nutritional profile. Sliced cucumber or bell peppers are excellent stand-ins for radishes.
  • Protein Boost: While the edamame provides plant-based protein, you can also add baked tofu, seared tuna (for a non-vegetarian option), or a handful of chickpeas to each bowl.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (1 bowl)
  • Calories: 367 kcal
  • Total Fat: 17 g
    • Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
    • Trans Fat: 0 g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 6 g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 475 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 42 g
    • Dietary Fiber: 11 g
    • Total Sugars: 6 g (Includes 2g Added Sugars)
    • Net Carbs: 31 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Potassium: 710 mg
  • Calcium: 110 mg
  • Iron: 3.1 mg
  • Vitamin A: 2900 IU
  • Vitamin C: 14 mg