You might have seen these mysteriously named bowls popping up on the menus of all of the trendiest cafes around. But unlike most food fads, this is one trend I’m wholeheartedly in support of.

Sometimes also referred to as Goddess Bowls, Sunshine Bowls, or Hippie Bowls, the ingredients of these satiating delights can vary greatly. What they have in common is that they are packed full of nutrients. A good Buddha Bowl contains lots of fiber, good fats, and a protein source, which makes them not only delicious, but a well-rounded meal that will keep you feeling strong all day!

Buddha Bowls are suitable for any meal, but I particularly love them as a low sugar breakfast option. So, how do you build your own?

Start with veggies!

Any Buddah Bowl enthusiast would agree that vegetables are an essential, and usually the base around which you can design you bowl. Greens are favorite (we don’t need a lesson on why they’re so good for you), but you are really only limited by your taste buds. 

Another great way of adding flavor and color is with fermented veggies. These also contain probiotics which are wonderful for your immune system and much more.

Vegetable suggestions:

• Spinach

• Kale

• Broccolini

• Zuchinni

• Mushrooms

• Sauerkraut http://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-homemade-sauerkraut-in-a-mason-jar- 193124

• Pickled carrots http://www.doctoroz.com/recipe/nigella-lawsons-quick-pickled-carrots

• Green beans

• Asparagus 

Add something creamy 

Variety is the key to a good Buddha Bowl. Make sure you entice both your taste buds and your senses by selecting something luxuriously creamy. Mixed in, these ingredients act as a healthy dressing as well.

Creamy suggestions: 

• Hummus

• Vegan beetroot hummus! https://www.lazycatkitchen.com/vegan-beet-hummus/

• Smashed avocado

• Smashed roast pumpkin

• Creamy vegan cashew pesto http://www.ilovevegan.com/vegan-basil-pesto/

• Cauliflower puree

• Paleo avocado and garlic sauce  http://blog.paleohacks.com/avocado-garlic-sauce/#

Add Something Crunchy 

If  the creamy ingredient is the icing, then the crunchy one is the cherry on top. Crunchy ingredients often supply protein and good fats too!

Try adding:

• Crispy fried kale https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/crispy-kale-leaves

• Sunflower seeds

• Slivered almonds

• Walnuts

• Crunchy chickpeas https://altonbrown.com/crunchy-chickpea-recipe/

• Toasted quinoa

Add A Grain

Still want more? If there’s still room in your bowl after all this, or you need some extra energy, try adding a grain. These will bulk up your bowl and satisfy even the fussiest of eaters. Opt for whole grains where possible. 

Some choices include:

• Tri-color quinoa

• Brown rice

• Barley

Or if you want the texture of a grain without the carbs, and the goodness of extra veg:

• Cauliflower rice https://minimalistbaker.com/how-to-make-cauliflower-rice/

• Broccoli rice

Last but not least…

Eggs!!!! We love eggs and like to throw a couple of poached eggs on for that extra bit of protein and good fats. This concludes a perfect low sugar meal to keep you going any time of the day. Yum!