The Best Way to Add Protein to Your Next Bowl
Lately, I’ve become seriously into powerlifting, and ” getting enough protein ” isn’t what it used to be. I cannot and will not tolerate a protein shake. I don’t like smoothies – or any other drink other than Diet Coke – and all of this, starting with the fact that powders annoy me. My new motto is “You have to eat meat to build meat”, but meat in and of itself is not a “right food”.
But put that meat in a bowl with a few other select ingredients, and you have what society will accept as a main course. “Bowl” usually indicates the presence of protein on top of some grain, with vegetables and other plant parts sprinkled in for good measure. But there is no law against ditching carbs in favor of protein. You can make a bowl with hummus base, that’s what I’m talking about. And it’s really good.
I didn’t invent the hummus bowl. You can find several versions of it online, and they all follow the same basic format: put on a thick layer of hummus, top with your favorite animal protein (or tofu, or seitan, or whatever), and top with vegetables. You can, of course, add grains, pita bread, or any other carbs you like, but the extra fiber and protein from hummus makes it more satisfying (and delicious because it’s hummus).
How to make a hummus bowl
First, you’ll need some hummus. The bath can be made independently or bought. I am currently working with store bought roasted garlic hummus. Put in half a cup of hummus and spread it in an aesthetically pleasing way.
Then choose a protein. Chicken, beef, lamb, shrimp, and fried salmon are all good options, but cured, smoked, or raw salmon are also interesting, as are tofu (tofu puffs in particular). Fancy canned tuna can be good too.
Add some vegetables – at least two, and make sure one of them is crunchy or crunchy so the bowl doesn’t look too bland. If you want a third of the plant, choose something pickled for acidity.
For finishing touches, think about balancing flavors and textures. Add some crumbly cheese like feta, chevre or blue to add salt and richness, and herbs like basil, chives, parsley or cilantro for freshness.
Lastly, don’t forget the acid . Hummus and meat are highly nutritious, and while vegetables can help balance that out, they don’t cut fat like lemon juice, vinegar, or pickle . You don’t need a full-fledged vinaigrette, as hummus itself is a bit of a sauce, but a pinch of lemon or lime juice, a dash of pure vinegar or pickle will bring balance to your bowl. Collect it all with a fork, crackers or slices of warm pita bread and feel how the protein begins to work, strengthening your muscles. (At least I like to imagine what’s going on.)