
This refreshing mango ginger rice bowl is perfect for warm days when you want something light yet satisfying. Fresh mango, crisp vegetables, and fragrant basil are layered over tender rice and topped with a tangy tamari lime dressing for a vibrant and flavorful meal.
I first made this on a summer evening after a long walk and it instantly became my favorite way to enjoy mango in a savory dish. Now it is a regular feature in my kitchen.
Ingredients
- Snap peas: fresh and crisp for a satisfying crunch choose bright green pods without blemishes
- Short grain white rice: fluffy and slightly sticky providing the perfect base for toppings select quality grains for best texture
- Green cabbage: adds crunch and freshness look for firm tightly packed heads
- Carrot: adds sweetness and color use fresh medium carrots for better taste
- English cucumber: offers cool crisp bites choose smooth firm cucumbers
- Ripe ataulfo mango: brings natural sweetness select soft fragrant fruit
- Cooked black beans: for protein and heartiness choose beans with a creamy texture
- Pickled ginger: for tang and zing use thin slices for balanced flavor
- Fresh basil: adds herbal fragrance choose bright leaves without dark spots
- Toasted peanuts: for crunch and richness opt for unsalted to control seasoning
- Sesame seeds: for subtle nuttiness use lightly toasted for enhanced aroma
- Avocado: for creaminess choose ripe but firm fruit
- Tamari: for savory depth ensure gluten free if needed
- Rice vinegar: for gentle acidity use mild varieties
- Lime juice: for fresh tang from ripe limes
- Garlic: for aromatic base choose firm cloves without sprouting
- Cane sugar: to balance acidity use fine granules for easy mixing
- Sriracha: for heat adjust to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk together tamari rice vinegar lime juice minced garlic cane sugar and sriracha until the sugar dissolves completely creating a balanced tangy and savory dressing
- Blanch the snap peas:
- Bring a small pot of salted water to a rolling boil and have a bowl of ice water ready Place snap peas in boiling water for one and a half minutes then immediately transfer them to ice water to stop cooking Drain pat dry and chop into bite sized pieces
- Assemble the bowls:
- Place warm or room temperature rice in serving bowls Arrange cabbage carrot cucumber mango black beans pickled ginger and basil over the rice for a colorful layered presentation
- Add toppings:
- Sprinkle toasted peanuts sesame seeds and avocado if using ensuring each bite has a mix of textures and flavors
- Finish and serve:
- Drizzle with half of the dressing leaving the rest on the side along with extra tamari and sriracha for individual adjustment

I especially love the way the mango pairs with basil creating a fragrant and sweet combination that reminds me of summer picnics with friends in my garden.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days Keep the dressing separate to maintain texture
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap white rice for brown rice quinoa or cauliflower rice Use cashews instead of peanuts for a softer crunch
Serving Suggestions
Pair with iced green tea or a light sparkling drink Serve alongside grilled tofu skewers for a more filling dinner

Cultural Context
This dish blends tropical fruit with Asian inspired dressing drawing on fusion cuisine trends that celebrate fresh vibrant ingredients
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well and adds a nutty flavor along with extra fiber to the bowl.
- → What can I substitute for mango?
You can use pineapple, peach, or even mango salsa for a sweet and tangy alternative.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce.
- → Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables, cook the rice, and make the dressing in advance for easy assembly.
- → What protein can I add to make it more filling?
Grilled tofu, tempeh, or even edamame make great protein additions to this bowl.