This has been a favorite of mine for nearly ten years, and it is finally time to share it with my Felida neighbors.

So what exactly is a Yumm Bowl? It is a simple idea that delivers every time. Cafe Yumm! began in Eugene, Oregon, and has since expanded across the Northwest, including a location in Vancouver. Their signature bowl is built with layers of rice and beans, topped with their well-loved Yumm Sauce and finished with fresh ingredients like avocado, olives, onion, cheese, salsa, cilantro, and sour cream.

The sauce is what makes it memorable. You can find it at the restaurant, at select local markets like Chuck’s Produce & Street Market, and even online. But if you enjoy recreating favorites at home, this one is easy to make yourself.

To build your own bowl, start with a warm base of rice, white or brown. Add your choice of beans, then drizzle generously with Yumm Sauce. From there, layer in your favorite toppings. Grilled chicken or another protein works well, along with olives, grated cheese, salsa, cilantro, sour cream, avocado, onion, and tomato. Finish with one more drizzle of sauce on top.

If you would like to try making the sauce at home, blend the following ingredients until smooth.

1/2 cup olive oil

1/2 cup almonds

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about two lemons)

1/3 cup nutritional yeast

1 can of garbanzo beans, drained

2 cloves of garlic

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/4 teaspoon chili powder

1/4 teaspoon turmeric

It is fresh, flexible, and easy to adapt to whatever you have on hand.