Dhal Broccoli Buddha Bowl

There are a million ways to make dhal, a creamy Indian bean mixture. Normally based on red lentils, you can find many interesting small bean mixtures (sometimes with small grains as well), that cook up to a creamy dhal.

A Buddha bowl is a mixture of elements both hot and cold, that together form a complete meal. According to legend, Buddha carried a bowl around with him and accepted food donations in it, which he ate at the end of the day. I expect a vegetarian dish, probably combining a dhal and a grain, with some fresh veggies. Of course like a soup or stew, there are myriad varieties. Next time you make dhal - consider a Buddha bowl something like this.

1 cup Rainbow lentil mix (I used Dunya Harvest, from Canada) - find on Amazon

2 cups water (more if needed)

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp favorite curry powder
1/4 tsp garam masala

1 leek, cleaned and diced

4 cups broccoli flowerets

2 cloves garlic, minced

crushed red pepper fakes to taste

1 cup favorite rice pilaf or grain mix

Fresh garnish: (you can vary this according to what you have)

grape tomatoes

red cabbage

parsley leaves

Prepare rice according to package directions.

Meanwhile, bring water to a boil and add the lentil mix. Add the salt, garlic and onion powders along with the curry powder and garam masala. Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover and cook about 15-20 minutes, until creamy. Stir every once in a while. Adjust with a dash more water if needed.

While the dhal cooks, cook leek in a dash of olive oil and 2 tablespoons water. Cook until the water evaporates and the leek softens. Add the broccoli and cook until just crisp tender.

Add the garlic and cook 2-3 more minutes. Season with red pepper flakes.

When dhal is cooked, distribute rice among four bowls, placing on one side of each bowl. Ladle dhal into second half of each bowl. Top with broccoli and garnish as you like with fresh ingredients.

Serves 4.

Cook’s note: There are many different lentil-grain mixes you could use for this. You could also just prepare dhal your favorite way, say using red lentils.

Photo source: Amazon.com

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