Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

With the Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl, you’ll enjoy a vibrant and nutritious meal that brings together spicy roasted sweet potatoes, crispy chickpeas, and fluffy quinoa, all drizzled in a creamy Thai peanut sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also vegan and gluten-free, making it ideal for various occasions—from weeknight dinners to meal prep for the week ahead. The combination of flavors and textures makes this buddha bowl a standout favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The spicy roasted sweet potatoes paired with the creamy peanut sauce create an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe can be ready in just 40 minutes.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from chickpeas and edamame, this bowl is a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Versatile: Feel free to swap out grains or veggies based on your preferences—this recipe is adaptable!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for preparing in advance, you can enjoy this delicious bowl throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make preparing your Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Pot for steaming
• Measuring spoons
• Cooking pot for grains

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting sweet potatoes and chickpeas evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients before baking.
• Pot for steaming: Perfect for quickly cooking broccoli and edamame while preserving nutrients.

Ingredients

With spicy roasted sweet potato, crispy chickpeas, fluffy quinoa and drizzled in my Thai Peanut Sauce, this is one of my favorite buddha bowls to date! It’s vegan, gluten free and perfect for meal prep.

For the Buddha Bowl

• 4 cups peeled and cubed sweet potato (about 2 medium potatoes)
• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons oil (I used avocado)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1-2 tablespoon sriracha (depending on spice preference)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup uncooked grain of choice (I suggest quinoa, rice or millet!)
• 1 head broccoli (chopped)
• 1 1/2 cup shelled edamame
• 1 avocado
• 1/2 batch peanut sauce (click for recipe)
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

How to Make Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potatoes and Chickpeas

Add the cubed sweet potato and rinsed chickpeas into a mixing bowl. Toss them with all spices and seasonings until well combined.

Step 3: Roast the Mixture

Spread the seasoned sweet potato and chickpea mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the sweet potato is easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Cook Your Grain

While the vegetables bake, cook your grain according to package instructions. If using quinoa or rice, check specific instructions as they may vary. Cooking grains in veggie broth adds extra flavor!

Step 5: Steam Broccoli and Edamame

In a pot, add broccoli and edamame with about an inch of water. Steam them for about 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is just fork-tender. Drain off any excess water.

Step 6: Assemble Your Buddha Bowl

Once everything is cooked, assemble your bowls! Start with a base of your chosen grain, then layer on steamed veggies, roasted sweet potatoes/chickpeas, sliced avocado, and finish with a generous drizzle of peanut sauce. Top with chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts. For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes too!

How to Serve Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

Serving your Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl is a delightful experience that allows you to customize each bowl to your liking. Here are some creative and tasty serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Add Extra Protein

• Tofu: Marinate and pan-fry tofu cubes for a delicious addition.
• Grilled Chicken: For those who want more protein, add slices of grilled chicken breast.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Fresh basil leaves can add a fragrant touch.
• Mint: Chopped mint leaves bring a refreshing flavor to the bowl.

Include More Veggies

• Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach for added nutrients and color.
• Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes give a nice crunch and peppery bite.

Drizzle More Sauce

• Extra Peanut Sauce: Don’t be shy; drizzle more sauce on top for a richer flavor.
• Chili Oil: A few drops of chili oil can enhance the heat if you enjoy spicy food.

How to Perfect Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

To make your Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl truly special, consider these helpful tips that will enhance flavors and textures.

• Flavoring: Experiment with different spices or seasonings on the sweet potatoes for depth.
• Perfect Grain Cooking: Use veggie broth instead of water when cooking grains for an extra layer of flavor.
• Roast Until Crispy: Ensure chickpeas are roasted until crispy to add texture contrast in each bite.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh produce for the best taste and nutritional value.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble bowls ahead of time but keep the avocado and sauce separate until serving.

Best Side Dishes for Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

Pairing side dishes with your Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds adds crunch.
2. Mango Salsa: Combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a sweet and tangy contrast.
3. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies and served with peanut dipping sauce complement the bowl perfectly.
4. Edamame Hummus: A creamy dip made from blended edamame pairs well with crunchy veggies or pita chips.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned and roasted Brussels sprouts provide an earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the bowl.
6. Quinoa Tabbouleh: A fresh salad made from quinoa, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon juice adds brightness to your meal.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush grilled corn with lime and chili powder for a zesty side dish that brings summer vibes.
8. Spicy Kimchi: This fermented dish adds probiotic benefits while delivering heat and tanginess to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl, there are several pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring spice levels: Not adjusting the sriracha to your taste can lead to a dish that’s either too bland or overly spicy. Start with less and add more until you reach your desired heat.
• Overcooking sweet potatoes: Cooking sweet potatoes for too long can make them mushy. Roast until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape for the best texture.
• Neglecting the grain: Using plain water instead of vegetable broth for cooking grains can result in a lack of flavor. Always opt for broth to enhance the overall taste of your bowl.
• Skipping the peanut sauce: The peanut sauce is key to this dish’s flavor. Don’t skip it; instead, ensure you have enough prepared before assembling your Buddha bowl.
• Not balancing textures: Focusing only on taste and not incorporating different textures (like crunchy chickpeas and creamy avocado) can make your meal less satisfying. Aim for a mix of textures in each bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to separate the peanut sauce if possible, as it may alter the texture of other ingredients.

Freezing Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates so you know when they were frozen.

Reheating Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Buddha bowl?

A Buddha bowl is a balanced meal that typically includes grains, proteins, veggies, and sauces all arranged in one bowl. It’s versatile and can be customized based on dietary preferences.

How do I make the Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl vegan?

All ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based, making it naturally vegan. Just ensure any store-bought sauces or broths are also vegan-friendly.

Can I customize the veggies in my Buddha bowl?

Yes! You can swap out broccoli or edamame for other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach based on your preference or what’s available.

Is the Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe remains completely gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

The Thai Peanut Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences. Try adding different vegetables or proteins for a unique twist each time!