Açaí originates from the acai berry grown on the acai palm tree in South American rainforests. Acai’s appearance is similar to that of a grape! Many studies have claimed that acai berry contains more antioxidants than strawberries, blackberries, cranberries or other berries. The acai bowl is made of frozen acai palm fruit that is pureed and served as a smoothie in a bowl or glass. There have been other claims that acai helps aid in weight loss, brain function, and prevent cancer but there is less evidence to back the notion.
ACAI BOWL HISTORY
During the early 1970’s, frozen acai pulp began to travel from the Amazon to northern Brazilian cities. In the 80’s, it was the legendary Brazilian Jujitsu founder Carlos Gracie who popularized the acai bowl in southern cities. As time went on Brazilian surfers and fitness enthusiasts began to partake in the acai bowl trend through the 90’s. In the 2000’s organic acai pulp first boarded a flight to the USA and Hawaii and Southern California became the first places where the acai bowls really found a home.
It was largely consumed by surfers who sought a tasty and healthy alternative to their diets. Acai bowls can now be found all over Hawaii and Southern California, where they have become a staple, and beyond. Cafes like Banzai Bowls in Southern California and Basik Acai in Kona, HI are dedicated to serving ultra premium and contemporary acai bowls.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF ONE ACAI BOWL SERVING
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Fat: 5 gm
- Potassium: 130 mg
- Carbohydrates: 5 gm
- Fiber: 4 gm
- Sugar: 0 gm
- Protein: 1 gm
ARE ACAI BOWLS HEALTHY?
We know that acai is good for you, but what about acai bowls?
This depends on a number of factors with the three most important being:
- Topping choices,
- Topping amounts, and
- Overall serving size.
With no toppings, one serving will contain approximately 250 calories, 10 grams of fat, 30
grams carbohydrates, 7 grams fiber, 20 grams sugar, and 7 grams protein. Calories aside, the vitamins and minerals in this single bowl pack a huge punch.
ACAI BOWL INGREDIENTS
Following are the ingredients used that are most commonly used when making an Acai bowl:
· Pure Unsweetened Acai Puree
In case you do not have the puree, you can also use acai powder. For a thick smoothie, using frozen fruit is highly recommended.
· Frozen berries
Acai tastes great with just about any fruit. It tastes particularly wonderful with frozen berries. Any mixture of blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries would be do wonders!
· Banana
Bananas are naturally super sweet and super creamy, hence when frozen; they serve the job really well! Also they are loaded with potassium, hence making a healthy acai recipe.
· Yogurt
Some people may not like adding yogurt, but if you want that extra richness and creaminess in your acai bowl, go for natural yogurt! Flavored yogurt is not recommended since it just camouflages the actual delicious flavor of the acai bowl.
· Liquid
You will need some kind of liquid to get things moving along. You can use milk for the extra protein boost or feel free to add your favorite fruit juice.
· Acai Bowl Toppings
-
- Granola
- Seeds
- Nuts
- Fresh sliced fruit.
MEASUREMENTS
- 1 banana, sliced and frozen
- ½ cup blueberries, frozen
- ½ cup strawberries, frozen
- ¾ cup milk or juice, use your favorite milk (dairy milk, soy, almond, etc) or juice (apple or grape)
- ½ cup plain yogurt, (substitute with milk or juice if desired)
- 200 grams (2 packets) frozen acai puree, broken into pieces
- Assorted toppings – nuts, seeds, fresh fruit, granola, coconut, etc.
HOW TO MAKE AN ACAI BOWL
Make this Acai Bowl in three easy steps,
1. Firstly, freeze your fruit
Slice your banana and transfer it to a small baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. To the same plate, add the blueberries and strawberries (store-bought frozen fruit will work just as well). Transfer tray or plate to the freezer and allow the fruit to freeze completely.
2. Secondly, blend everything together!
Once frozen, add the milk and yogurt to the bowl of a large, high-speed blender with a tamper (see tips and tricks). Add the frozen blueberries, strawberries, banana, and broken up acai. With the blender on low, use the tamper to push the frozen fruit down, mixing around as much as possible. Continue to blend on low until smooth, only adding additional liquid when needed.
3. Lastly, assemble and enjoy!
Divide the smoothie into two bowls and top with all your favorite toppings. Acai bowl is best enjoyed immediately because otherwise it will melt.
TIPS FOR PERFECT SMOOTHIE BOWLS
- Customize your own acai bowl by trying other fruits like mango, apple, papaya and kiwi. Beets provide tremendous energy and oodles of antioxidants!
- If you cannot have dairy or are looking to make a vegan smoothie bowl, simply substitute your favorite dairy-free yogurt.
- Keep the sugar low by skipping the honey.
- Acai Bowl is best enjoyed as soon as you make it. If you want to make it in advance, pour the smoothie base into individual containers and freeze without the toppings. To eat later, allow the smoothie bowl to thaw for 10-15 minutes and give it a stir before adding your toppings.
