Morning Magic- Our Favorite Açai Smoothie Bowl Recipe
Açai– How do you say it? (ah-sah- EE) What is it? Where do you buy it, and more importantly, why should you eat it?
The popular smoothie bowl has been sweeping the nation for the past several years, mostly thanks to the Brazilian “superfruit,” the açai berry. This common ingredient in the ever popular “smoothie bowl,” has recently become trendy through the rise of local juice and smoothie bars, along with millions of posts and beautiful images of the colorful creations on Instagram and social media.
And no wonder, because, like all fruits and vegetables, the health benefits of the açai berry should not be ignored. The nutrient dense and antioxidant packed berry is similar in look and size to a blueberry, but due to its short shelf life, you will only find it outside the region in which it’s grown, in either frozen or concentrated form. Many believe its disease fighting properties are also helpful in lowering cholesterol and improving brain function.
With summer right around the corner, a frozen smoothie bowl, instead of a bowl of ice cream, makes for a healthy and easy summer treat for the whole family. Its preparation is a lot easier than it might look, and by following this easy recipe, you will have a perfectly balanced and healthy breakfast or snack, all summer long. The good news is, it’s available year-round. And if you aren’t up for preparing one, there are several local options where you can purchase one ready made. Check out Cocobowlz, Happy + Hale, Kuka Juice, and Southern Pressed Juicery.
Açai berry puree can be found for about $6 for a four pack, in the frozen fruit section of your local grocer, such as Trader Joe’s, Publix, or Harris Teeter. Be sure to choose the unsweetened version, for an even healthier bowl. It will be plenty sweet blended with fruit and any added toppings. The best part about an açai base is that any number or toppings or superfood mix-ins pair perfectly with its smooth and fruity texture.
How to make the C.O.R.E. approved perfect bowl:
2 unsweetened açai berry puree packets
1 banana
1/2 cup granola (the less sugar, the better)
1/3 cup cacao nibs
1/3 cup shredded, unsweetened coconut flakes
1 tbsp. maca powder
1 cup mixed berries
Soak 2 acai berry packets in a cup of hot water for about 5 minutes to defrost. Mix this together in a blender with a banana until smooth. This is the base of your smoothie bowl. Add granola or drizzle with honey or almond butter for added sweetness or extra protein. The toppings and the rest depend on your creativity in the kitchen. #growstrong