Miso Bowl (High-Protein)

If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious meal that’s bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Miso Bowl (High-Protein) is not just delicious; it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients that will make you feel great. Whether you’re enjoying a busy weeknight dinner or preparing for a family gathering, this bowl is a fantastic choice. It comes together in no time and can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it perfect for any occasion.

What I love most about this recipe is its vibrant mix of textures and flavors. The crunchy kale and cabbage combined with the creamy miso sauce create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is healthy. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to sneak in loads of veggies while keeping your protein intake high!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, dinner is ready before you know it!
• Family-friendly: This Miso Bowl appeals to everyone—kids and adults alike will love diving into this colorful dish.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Cook up a batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Nutritious goodness: Packed with protein from edamame and nutrient-rich veggies, you’ll feel energized after each bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes this Miso Bowl (High-Protein) so special. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

For the Bowl

• 1 large bunch kale (about 4 packed cups chopped)
• 1/2 medium red cabbage (about 4 packed cups chopped)
• 10 ounces shelled frozen edamame
• Drizzle of olive oil (or lemon juice)

For the Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 3/4 teaspoon sumac (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt-free seasoning (or salt to taste)

For the Garnish

• 3 scallions (thinly sliced – white and light green parts)
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (or parsley, mint, or basil)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup unsalted peanuts (roughly chopped – optional)

For the Sauce

• 1 1/2 tablespoons white miso (or mellow miso)
• 1 tablespoon tamari (or soy sauce – preferably reduced sodium)
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 1/2 inches ginger (minced or grated)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or date syrup – or to taste)

For the Base

• 8 ounces soba noodles, (or vermicelli noodles, quinoa, farro, or kamut – see notes)

Variations

One of the best things about this Miso Bowl is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the noodles: Use quinoa or farro instead of soba noodles for a different texture.
• Add more protein: Try adding grilled tofu or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
• Change up the greens: Spinach or arugula can be used in place of kale for a milder flavor.
• Mix up the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil to give your bowl a fresh twist!

How to Make Miso Bowl (High-Protein)

Step 1: Prepare Your Base

Start by cooking your soba noodles according to package instructions. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Cooking them perfectly al dente ensures they hold up well in your bowl. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Chop Your Veggies

While your noodles are cooking, chop the kale and red cabbage into bite-sized pieces. These crunchy vegetables add great texture and nutritional value to your bowl. Feel free to get creative with your chopping; uneven sizes can add an interesting look!

Step 3: Cook the Edamame

In a medium pot, boil some water and add the shelled frozen edamame. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender but still bright green. Drain them and set aside. Edamame adds not only protein but also a lovely pop of color!

Step 4: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine white miso, tamari, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, and maple syrup. Whisk until smooth. This miso sauce is where all that delightful flavor comes from—it’s tangy, sweet, and utterly delicious!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl

Now it’s time for assembly! In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked soba noodles with kale, red cabbage, edamame, scallions, and cilantro or your choice of herbs. Drizzle with olive oil or lemon juice if you’d like extra freshness.

Step 6: Dress It Up

Pour your miso sauce over everything and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated. Sprinkle sesame seeds and unsalted peanuts on top for added crunch right before serving.

And there you have it—a delightful Miso Bowl (High-Protein) that’s sure to become one of your favorites! Enjoy every colorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Miso Bowl (High-Protein)

Creating the perfect Miso Bowl is easier than you think! Here are some tips to elevate your dish and ensure it’s bursting with flavor and nutrition.

• Use fresh greens: Fresh kale and cabbage not only provide a vibrant color but also retain nutrients better than wilted greens, making your bowl both healthier and more appealing.

• Experiment with miso types: Different miso pastes have distinct flavors. Try using red or yellow miso for a deeper taste or mellow white miso for a subtler flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

• Customize your protein source: While edamame packs a punch of protein, feel free to swap it out with chickpeas or tofu for added variety. These alternatives bring their own flavors and textures to the bowl!

• Adjust seasonings to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your sauce before mixing it in and adjust the garlic, ginger, or tamari according to your preference for a personalized touch.

• Make it a meal prep hero: This Miso Bowl can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness!

How to Serve Miso Bowl (High-Protein)

Serving your Miso Bowl can turn an already delicious dish into an eye-catching meal! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this flavorful creation.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that enhances each bite.
• Extra herbs: Chopped cilantro, parsley, or basil can bring freshness and brightness, making your bowl even more aromatic and inviting.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Roasted Chickpeas: These crunchy snacks are seasoned to perfection and add a satisfying crunch that complements the soft texture of the Miso Bowl.
• Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing balances the hearty ingredients of the Miso Bowl, making it a light yet flavorful pairing.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice is not only nutritious but also adds a vibrant green contrast on your plate.
• Quinoa Salad: A side of quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs offers additional protein and makes for a filling companion to your Miso Bowl.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a delightful Miso Bowl that’s both nourishing and satisfying! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Miso Bowl (High-Protein) is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and enjoy this nutritious dish whenever you want. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Miso Bowl to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the miso sauce separate until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the Miso Bowl into freezer-safe containers.
• Store without the miso sauce to maintain quality.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use a microwave for quick thawing.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it moist.
• If microwaving, cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Miso Bowl (High-Protein).

Can I use other vegetables in my Miso Bowl (High-Protein)?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your bowl with any seasonal vegetables you love. Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas would all be fantastic additions.

How do I make my Miso Bowl (High-Protein) spicy?

To add some heat, mix in a dash of sriracha or chili flakes into your miso sauce. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste!

Is this Miso Bowl (High-Protein) suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well and can be easily reheated. Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this vibrant and protein-packed Miso Bowl (High-Protein)! It’s not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to play around with different ingredients and flavors. Enjoy every bite knowing you’re nourishing your body with wholesome goodness. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe!