One of my favorite easy, go-to meals is gado-gado – a traditional Indonesian dish we discovered when we went to Bali way back in 2013. The concept is simple: rice topped with raw or lightly steamed veggies and a spicy peanut sauce. That’s my kind of meal (and you better believe I ate plenty during our trip). Shall we?
Origin of Gado-Gado
Gado-gado is believed to have originated in Jakarta, Indonesia in the 16th century. It’s typically made with vegetables, protein, a nutty sauce, and sometimes rice or rice crackers. Our inspired version uses the same basic concept, but with a few ingredient swaps. You can find a more authentic preparation of gado gado here.
How to Make Quinoa Gado-Gado
This 30-minute recipe is adapted from my Sweet Potato Gado-Gado Bowl. In place of rice, I subbed quinoa for even more plant-based protein. For the vegetables, I kept things light and fresh (even omitting the classic steamed potatoes) for green beans, mung bean sprouts, red pepper, carrots, and cabbage. I didn’t hold out on the sauce though. When in doubt, add more peanut sauce. (That should totally be my life motto.) Traditionally gado-gado peanut sauce is on the spicier side, so I add plenty of chili garlic sauce. But, if heat isn’t your thing, hold off and keep it on the sweet and tangy side. No judgments here. I hope you guys love this bowl! It’s: HealthyHeartyColorfulNutritiousSatisfyingQuick + EasyCustomizable& Delicious This would make the perfect plant-based meal when you’re craving tons of veggies but also plenty of staying powder. Each serving boasts more than 20 grams of protein! And it’s so easy to customize. If you’re needing more carbs, add quartered, steamed baby potatoes. If you’re needing more protein, add my 25-Minute Crispy Tofu! Peanut-sensitive? Sub with another nut or seed butter (options listed below). The possibilities are endless. Plus, leftovers store and pack beautifully, making it ideal for lunches throughout the week. Total win. And, if you’re looking for even MORE healthy recipes, check out our 12-Recipe Detox Guide (!) – free when you sign up for our email list.
More Quinoa Bowls
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Harvest Bowl Quinoa Chickpea Buddha Bowl Rainbow Quinoa Salad with Chili Garlic Sesame Dressing
If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo #minimalistbaker on Instagram! We’d love to see what you come up with. Cheers, friends!
