Universal assembly method: cook grain, cook protein, cook veg separately, assemble with sauce.

The Technique: Cook grain. Sauté protein. Steam/roast veg. Assemble in bowl. Top with sauce and toppings.

The Formula

ComponentOptionsHow Cooked
BaseRice, quinoa, farro, cauliflower riceBoil or steam
ProteinGround beef, chicken, beans, chickpeas, tofu, fishSauté or roast
VegetablesAny from 3-Tier Density SystemRoast or steam
SauceAny Flavour Bridges sauceDrizzle on top
ToppingsCheese, nuts, herbs, picklesFresh garnish

Three Example Variations

Variation 1 (Mexican):

  • Base: Rice
  • Protein: Ground beef with cumin/chili
  • Veg: Corn, black beans, tomatoes
  • Sauce: Salsa + lime
  • Toppings: Cheese, cilantro, avocado

Variation 2 (Asian):

  • Base: Rice
  • Protein: Ground pork with soy/ginger
  • Veg: Cabbage, edamame, carrots
  • Sauce: Soy-sesame dressing
  • Toppings: Green onions, sesame seeds

Variation 3 (Mediterranean):

  • Base: Quinoa
  • Protein: Chickpeas (canned)
  • Veg: Cucumber, tomato, roasted red pepper
  • Sauce: Hummus + lemon
  • Toppings: Feta, olives, parsley

The workflow: Make grain first (takes longest). While it cooks, prep and cook protein and veg. Assemble hot.


North: Where this comes from

West: What’s similar?