Pulled pork Buddha bowl with grilled pineapple

If you ever find yourself standing in front of the fridge wondering what to eat, this simple Buddha bowl concept is your answer. It’s not a strict recipe, but rather a concept, flexible formula that helps you transform leftover meats and common ingredients into a wholesome, balanced, and deeply satisfying meal.

At its heart, this bowl combines protein, fiber, color, and probiotics—the essential elements that support optimal digestion, hormone balance, and overall vitality.

Start with your protein base—perhaps some pulled pork, roasted chicken, or grilled fish from yesterday’s dinner. Protein is essential for satiety, muscle maintenance, and hormone production. Add enough to truly nourish your body - women often under-eat protein, especially at lunch or dinner, which can leave them tired and craving sweets later.

Next, bring in color and diversity: roasted potatoes for comfort and slow-burning energy, crisp lettuce for freshness, juicy tomatoes for antioxidants, creamy avocado for healthy fats, and a slice of grilled pineapple for that naturally sweet, tropical note. This variety of textures and colors reflects a range of nutrients—vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that feed both your cells and your gut microbiome.

Then, add a small serving of fermented foods—like sauerkraut, pickles or kimchi—for probiotics that aid digestion, reduce bloating, and support hormone metabolism through a healthy gut-liver axis. These living foods gently rebalance the intestinal flora and enhance nutrient absorption.

Finally, top it all with your favorite sauce—perhaps a drizzle of Kewpie mayo, tahini dressing, or olive oil with lemon. The goal is not perfection but balance and enjoyment.

This type of meal is more than just convenient; it’s a nourishing act of self-care. It helps women stabilize energy, support their hormones naturally, and foster better digestion—all while keeping mealtime effortless and family-friendly. With a little creativity, the simplest leftovers can become a vibrant, healing meal.

RECIPE

Ingredients (use quantities as desired)

  • 150-200 g of pulled pork (or any cooked meat you have on hand)

  • Grilled pineapple slice

  • Chopped lettuce

  • Julienned red onion

  • Sauerkraut

  • Sliced avocado

  • Oven-roasted potatoes

  • Sliced tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Prepare all ingredients: cook the meat, roast the potatoes, and grill the pineapple.

  2. Assemble your Buddha bowl (or plate) with your preferred amounts of each ingredient.

  3. Serve with Kewpie mayo or your favorite sauce.

As usual, these are my thoughts and ideas, not medical advice. You are encouraged to create your own recipes or search for some suited to your needs. I am just sharing my recipes, hoping that I can inspire some of you to make healthier food choices.

Please remember that we all have different nutritional needs and that food affects us differently. If you are not sure which foods are best for you, reach out for a free phone consultation. 

In good health,

Ioana

Next
Next

Quick fermented red cabbage salad, with garlic and ginger