Quick and Colorful Vegan Tempeh Hummus Bowl

Looking for a delicious, vibrant, and nutrient-packed meal that’s ready in a flash? This quick and colorful vegan tempeh hummus bowl is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds! It’s a wholesome, satisfying option that’s as easy to make as it is beautiful to serve.

Packed with protein, fiber, and fresh veggies, it’s the perfect way to elevate your plant-based meal game and bring more joy to your table. Whether you’re cooking for one or meal prepping for the week, this bowl has you covered.

Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Ingredients:

For the Tempeh:

• 1 block (8 oz) tempeh, cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor

For the Bowl:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice (can substitute with barley, couscous, or millet)
• 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade, flavored varieties like roasted red pepper work well)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (use heirloom varieties for extra color!)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced or diced (English or Persian cucumbers are best for crunch)
• 1 cup purple cabbage, thinly sliced (or mix with green cabbage for contrast)
• 1 avocado, sliced or diced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (or a mix of both for added crunch)
• Optional: a sprinkle of sesame seeds, hemp hearts, or even crispy chickpeas for garnish

For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp water (to thin, as needed)
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: a dash of cumin or smoked paprika for a subtle spice kick

Instructions:

Marinate and Cook the Tempeh:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, and oil. For extra depth, add garlic powder or onion powder to the mix.
• Toss the tempeh cubes in the marinade and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This step ensures the flavors seep in and make each bite irresistible.
• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the tempeh for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until golden, slightly caramelized, and crispy on the edges for that perfect texture.

Prepare the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, water, maple syrup, and salt. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed—it should be creamy but drizzle-able.
• For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of cumin or smoked paprika. This can complement the tempeh and add depth to the entire bowl.

Assemble the Bowl:

• Start with a base of quinoa or brown rice in each bowl, spreading it out evenly.
• Add a generous dollop of hummus to one side—this acts as both a dip and a creamy element to tie everything together.
• Arrange the cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, cucumber, purple cabbage, avocado slices, and cooked tempeh around the bowl in vibrant, colorful sections. The key is to make it visually appealing while ensuring every bite has a mix of textures and flavors.
• Drizzle the tahini dressing generously over the top. Feel free to add more on the side for dipping.

Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of freshness. Add toasted seeds and any optional garnishes, such as sesame seeds or crispy chickpeas, to enhance both texture and visual appeal.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant, plant-powered creation. It’s not just food—it’s an experience!

Tips and Variations:

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the tempeh marinade. Alternatively, drizzle a spicy sriracha or chili oil over the bowl before serving.
• Switch the Base: Experiment with cauliflower rice, farro, or a mix of baby greens as a base for different textures and flavors.
• Extra Creaminess: Swap the tahini dressing with a vegan garlic yogurt sauce, or mix tahini with a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Add More Crunch: Top with crispy chickpeas or crushed tortilla chips for added texture.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store all components separately to maintain freshness. When ready to eat, assemble the bowls and drizzle with dressing for a quick, delicious meal.

This vegan tempeh hummus bowl is proof that eating plant-based can be exciting, nutritious, and utterly satisfying.

It’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. So grab a fork, take a deep breath, and savor every bite of this rainbow on your plate!