Sesame Tofu, Mushroom & Daikon Rice Bowl

In Chinese Medicine, a sesame tofu, mushroom & daikon rice bowl offers grounding nourishment that supports Spleen Qi and digestion while incorporating foods traditionally associated with Autumn’s Metal element. Daikon helps encourage the movement of Qi and supports digestion, while mushrooms nourish Qi and sesame provides a gently moistening quality that can help balance seasonal dryness. Served warm over rice, this comforting bowl helps nourish the center, support the Lung and Large Intestine, and encourage the body’s natural rhythm of receiving and releasing.

Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 cups sliced shiitake mushrooms
• 2 cups daikon radish, cut into thin half-moons
• 3 cups bok choy, chopped
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1 Tbsp sesame oil
• 1 Tbsp grated ginger
• 2 Tbsp low-sodium tamari
• 1 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 Tbsp white sesame seeds
• 2 scallions, sliced

Preparation

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet.
2. Add tofu and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning until lightly golden.
3. Remove and set aside.
4. Add daikon, mushrooms and ginger to the skillet.
5. Cook for 5–7 minutes.
6. Add bok choy and cook until just tender.
7. Return tofu to the pan.
8. Add tamari and rice vinegar and toss gently.
9. Serve over brown rice.
10. Finish with sesame seeds and scallions.

Approximate Macros

Calories: 395 | Protein: 20g | Carbs: 49g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 8g

Chinese Medicine Perspective

Daikon has a long history in Asian food traditions and is traditionally associated with helping move stagnation and support digestion. Mushrooms and white daikon echo the Metal element, while sesame adds nourishment and moisture.

Ginger and scallion provide the pungent flavor associated with Metal and help keep this autumn meal warm and dynamic.

Body as Oracle:
What might become possible if I stopped gripping so tightly?

Lower-carb option: Replace half the brown rice with sautéed cauliflower rice.