[Recipe makes two large servings].
Since açaí bowls have skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years, many of us have tried them by now (or at least heard of them). But what exactly is açaí ["AH-sigh-EE"]?
They are a type of palm tree found in South America that produce açaí berries resembling a cross between blueberries and grapes. Açaí berries are huge in the health-conscience world since they are low in calories and packed with antioxidants, vitamin A, fiber, and calcium. In the States, they are usually sold as a freeze-dried powder or a frozen concentrate.
Açaí bowls are just like fruit smoothies since they are a mix of puréed frozen fruits, but differ since they're much thicker and include frozen açaí in every recipe. Similar to smoothies, the possibilities are endless when it comes to flavors. The recipe below is meant to show rough proportions and directions, but feel free to be creative when it comes to what frozen fruits and liquids are used.
(up to) 3/4 cups dairy-free milk or juice
115 grams (1 whole) banana
2 packets frozen açaí, broken into rough pieces
100 grams (~just under 2/3 cup) frozen blueberries
100 grams (~just under 2/3 cup) frozen strawberries, diced
3 pitted dates
Optional topping ideas:
Dried shredded coconut
Chia seeds
Granola
Fresh fruit
Hemp seeds
Raw cacao nibs
Drizzle of maple syrup
DIRECTIONS:
Add the milk (or juice) to a high-speed blender. [Side note: Due to the low liquid-to-solid ratio, a high-speed blender is highly recommended over a standard blender]. Add the remaining ingredients and blend on low. Use a tamper to help move around the frozen fruit, making sure not to force too much frozen fruit into the spinning blade and overwork the motor. As the mixture slowly starts to come together, increase the speed to high and blend until completely smooth.
Divide into two bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.
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