Protein Power Bowl

This recipe balances all six Ayurvedic tastes, making it balancing for all doshas. The bitter and astringent qualities of kale, frisée, and cauliflower help reduce Kapha. Sweet elements from chickpeas, tofu, and oils ground Vata. Warming spices support digestion while pungent notes stimulate circulation. Pitta types may want to reduce cayenne and spices if experiencing excess heat. The combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats creates a satisfying meal that promotes balance while gently detoxifying the system during seasonal transitions.

Ingredients:

(Serves 2+)

• Extra Firm Tofu (1 package/15.5 ounces) -  Sweet, Astringent

• Chickpeas (1 can or 15 ounces) - Sweet, Astringent

• Frisée/Curled Endive - Bitter, Astringent

• Shallot (one) - Pungent, Sweet

• Kale (small bunch) - Bitter, Astringent

• Frozen Riced Cauliflower (1.5 cups) - Sweet, Astringent

• Avocado Oil (1-2 tablespoons) - Sweet

• Salt & Pepper – Salt, Pepper (Pungent)

• Spring Spice Blend from Kate O’Donnell (Bitter, Pungent, Sweet)

• 1 tsp Cumin, 1 tsp Coriander, 1 tsp Turmeric, 1 tsp Fenugreek, 1 tsp Ground Ginger, a few dashes of Cayenne, Pinch of Clove, Salt & Pepper

Dressing Ingredients:

• Honey (1 teaspoon) - Sweet

• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) - Sweet

• Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tablespoons) - Sour, Astringent

• Water (2 tablespoons)

• Salt & Pepper

  Taste while making to modify to your liking

Recipe:

1. Rinse chickpeas and chop extra firm tofu in cubes

2. Bake or air fry the chickpeas and tofu with salt and half of the spice blend. Depending on your oven, bake until golden brown.

3. Heat a cast iron pan with a drizzle of avocado oil 

4. Add 1 sliced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes

5. Add 1.5 cups of frozen riced cauliflower and cook for 5 minutes

6. Add the remaining spice blend

7. Add 1 bunch of chopped kale, salt and pepper to taste

8. Saute for several minutes until the spice aroma is fragrant and veggies are cooked

9. Wash and chop a bunch of frisée, dry the greens

10. Make the dressing in a jar: mix all dressing ingredients and shake well

11. Layer the frisée in the bottom of a bowl with some of the dressing, add the cooked cauliflower/kale/shallot mix, add the baked tofu/chickpeas

12. Layer more dressing on top

13. Mix together and enjoy!

14. Serve warm! Always ;) 

Have you heard conflicting stories about the health benefits of tofu? Check out this article for some great information!