Not Just Another Rice Bowl

Everyone knows what a rice bowl is, and throwing together a grain, protein and veg is quite simple for most, I hope.  This is my latest creation, including yummy roasted butternut squash, steamed kale and panfried marinated tofu.  BUT, what is different about this version is, I made it all fancy using a small springform mould!It really made me feel like I was having more than just another rice bowl for supper.  I got the idea from Anthony Bourdain’s book, Kitchen Confidential, where he explains that having a round mould is one of the distinctions between home food and restaurant food.  I agree!

Ingredients:

1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed

1 bunch kale, steamed

2 cups long grain brown rice, cooked

Half block of tofu

2 tablespoons grapeseed oil, divided

Juice of 1 lemon

1 tablespoon Bragg’s liquid aminos

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

Extra virgin olive oil

Method:

Toss the cubed butterbut squash with 1 tablespoon of grapeseed oil, salt and fresh cracked pepper and roast for 45 minutes at 350F.

Marinate the tofu in Bragg’s, lemon juice, garlic, and remaining grapeseed oil for 20 minutes.  Remove any garlic pieces from tofu before cooking to prevent them from burning.  Save the marinade and add to the cooked brown rice. Fry tofu on either side for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown, in a cast iron skillet (if possible) over medium heat.

Now to assemble….

Place your mould on a plate.  Spoon rice mixture into the mould, about half way up. Then layer the roasted butternut squash on top of the rice and pat down with the back of a spoon.  Remove mould and place your piece of tofu on top of the squash. Arrange steamed kale pieces around the edge of the fancy food tower and voila – not just another rice bowl!  Finish off by drizzling with extra virgin olive oil, sea salt and fresh cracked pepper.

You can find a springform mould at any kitchen store for no more that $7, and experiment with your favourite ingredients. And when you do, please share!  We’d love to see what you come up with

~The Vegan Project

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