There was a time when I found myself wandering through a local farmer’s market, captivated by the vibrant colors and textures that surrounded me. Among the lush greens and radiant veggies, I stumbled upon an array of whole grains and seeds, each whispering promises of nourishment and flavor. Inspired, I decided to create a dish that not only showcased the beauty of these grains but also celebrated the earthy flavors of nature. Thus, the Harvest Grain Bowl was born, a hearty meal filled with wholesome goodness, topped with a luscious maple tahini drizzle that dances on your palate.
Ingredients
1 cup farro
1 cup quinoa
½ cup black lentils
1 cup roasted sweet potatoes, diced
1 cup kale, chopped
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup pumpkin seeds
1 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Maple Tahini Drizzle
3 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons water (more if needed)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Begin by cooking the grains. Rinse the farro, quinoa, and lentils under cold water. In a large pot, combine the farro and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes until tender. In a separate pot, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy. For the black lentils, use a different pot, simmer in 3 cups of water for about 20 minutes until tender but still firm.
While the grains are cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and caramelized. In the last 5 minutes of roasting, add the kale to the same baking sheet, allowing it to crisp up slightly alongside the sweet potatoes.
As the grains and veggies are finishing up, prepare the maple tahini drizzle. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, water, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if necessary to achieve a drizzle-able texture.
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to assemble your bowl. Start with a base of farro and quinoa, then layer on the black lentils. Add the roasted sweet potatoes, kale, and cherry tomatoes. Garnish with sliced avocado and sprinkle the pumpkin seeds over the top. Finally, drizzle the maple tahini sauce generously over your creation, and feel free to add more salt and pepper to taste.
This Harvest Grain Bowl is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of whole grains and vibrant flavors, reminding me of that sunny day at the market. Enjoy every bite, and let the wholesome goodness nourish your body and soul.