4 min read ·
What is an Asian bowl?
Rice, noodles, crunchy vegetables, protein and sauces: discover what goes into a balanced Asian bowl and how to build one at home.
A complete meal in a single bowl
An Asian bowl is a one-dish meal that brings together a base of grains or noodles, vegetables, a source of protein and a sauce. The idea is simple: everything is served together in one bowl, for a balanced meal that is easy to enjoy.
This format comes from street food and everyday cooking in Asia, where people eat quickly, well and with little washing-up. Today it has become popular in many countries.
The four elements of a good bowl
The base: rice, vermicelli or soba noodles. It provides the carbohydrates and is the foundation for everything else.
The vegetables: crunchy and colourful, raw or stir-fried. Carrots, cucumber, edamame or bean sprouts are classics.
The protein: crispy chicken, tempura prawns, stir-fried beef or tofu. It gives the dish its character.
The sauce: soy, sesame, lemongrass, fish sauce or a house sauce. It ties all the flavours together.
Building one at home
Prepare a base of rice or noodles, add two or three vegetables, a protein that cooks quickly and a simple sauce made with soy, lime juice and a little sugar. Finish with fresh herbs and a few sesame seeds.