Tropical Acai Bowl
WHAT IS ACAI?
Acai (pronounced ah-sigh-EE) is a small deep-purple grape-like fruit harvested from the acai palm tree. It is native to the Brazilian rainforests of Central and South America. Just like other berries, acai is very high in antioxidants and fibre. Acai has become quite quickly the new trendy, popular breakfast staple - just like avocado toast. But, there is a reason! It is so delicious, and with some many different variations you can never really get sick of them! They are simple a must for a warm summer day!
HOW TO MAKE THE BEST ACAI BOWL
As much as i do love buying an açai bowl from a cafe, there is something very satisfying making your own (also saving that $20), you can add whatever topping you like, and as much granola as you feel called to!
There are a few components to make the best açai bowl, which I have discovered with much trial and error!
Frozen Açai - obviously we have to start with the hero ingredient. I love using the frozen açai packets, but you can also find freeze dried açai powder which works well also. You can find the frozen packets in most health food stores, and some supermarkets. They are usually already portioned, so it makes it very easy to know how much to use.
Frozen banana & berries - I love adding some frozen banana to make it even more thick and creamy, it also adds a nice sweetness as açai can be a little tart. Also add some more berries to make it an antioxidant dream!
Protein & Fats - I find that it is important to add some fats in to make it super creamy and delicious. Nut butter, coconut yoghurt, hemp seeds. I also love adding a scoop of my favourite protein powder.
Liquid - Add either plant based milk or coconut water.
Toppings! - Now this is where you can have so much fun. You can go tropical with some mango, berries and granola. Chocolatey with some cacao granola, berries and chocolate chips, or keep it simple with sliced banana, granola and peanut butter.
INGREDIENTS
1 packet frozen açai
1 frozen banana
1 cup frozen berries
1 soft date
1/2 cup coconut milk/water (or any plant based milk)
Topped with;
Peanut butter
Crunchy granola
Fresh mango/berries
DIRECTIONS
Place liquid in the blender first, followed by the rest of the ingredients.
Blend on high until smooth, don’t over blend it otherwise it will become a lot runnier.
Add toppings as you’d like!