Asian Rice Bowls (Build Your Own)

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Toss your vegetables with sesame oil, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Spread out on a baking sheet in a single layer and cook for 12-25 minutes, depending on the vegetables. For quick cooking vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, green beans, or sugar snap peas - you only need to cook for about 10-12 minutes. For heartier vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, or onion, you will need 20-25 minutes. If you are using a mix, just check them starting at 15 minutes until they are cooked to your liking. You can also saute the vegetables in the sesame oil if you prefer.

Step 2

Make the sauce: Combine the soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, Asian garlic chili paste, cornstarch, and garlic powder in a small pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens, whisking often for a smooth sauce, Remove and set aside.

Step 3

Brown the meat: Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the sesame oil. Once hot add the ground meat and brown, breaking it up as it cooks, until cooked through. If you want, cook the meat with some minced garlic, onion, or ginger to add extra flavor.

Step 4

Make the rice bowls: Start with the rice (or cooked grains) and add the vegetables and cooked meat. Drizzle with sauce and stir to combine to that the sauce is evenly distributed.