If you’re a health enthusiast like me (or even if you’re not), these pretty little bowls have definitely been taking over your social media feed. Acai bowls have recently become all the rage and they’re not just for show! I tried my first acai bowl a few years ago after stumbling upon frozen acai puree packs at Sunshine Wholesome Market. It wasn’t until I travelled to Bali earlier this year that I became obsessed with these nutrient-dense superfood bowls. I couldn’t walk a block without coming across another cute little smoothie bowl shack (Nalu Bowls is my fave!). They quickly became my go-to breakfast on the trip.
An acai bowl is essentially a thick smoothie, made of frozen fruit and freeze-dried acai berry powder or frozen acai puree. The goal is to get a consistency that’s thick enough that the toppings won’t drown in the bowl, but also one that doesn’t turn out looking like sorbet. Once you’ve experimented with that, you can then top it with granola, fresh fruit and a variety of garnishes. Some of my favourite toppings include coconut flakes, goji berries, chia seeds, hemp seeds and bee pollen – but the options are endless! Acai bowls make for a great alternative to smoothies and will help keep you feeling satisfied much longer. You can even add a scoop of plant-based protein powder or dark leafy greens to sneak in some extra nutrients.
Acai berries are an indigenous fruit derived from acai palm trees of the Amazon rainforests. The palm heart and acai berries are an essential source of food in many areas of South America. Unlike the way we consume them today, the tart berries are traditionally served with cassava (a brazilian root vegetable) and a protein such as meat or fish. In the early 1970s, acai berries began to travel from the Amazon to the beaches and cities of Brazil, eventually making their way to North America in the early 2000’s. Today, they are enjoyed sweetened and blended with a variety of fruits and are gaining popularity worldwide.
A healthy and delicious smoothie you can eat with a spoon! Nutritionist approved. Click To Tweet
Acai berries contain phenolic compounds which possess antioxidant effects. Antioxidants help combat free radicals, fight inflammation, lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of many diseases such as cancer and heart disease. They are rich in fibre and healthy fats which help to improve digestion, boost energy levels, maintain a healthy body weight and provide anti-aging benefits. Acai berries are a powerful beauty food loaded with many beneficial vitamins and minerals for healthy skin including vitamin C, K, omega 6&9, magnesium and zinc.
- 2 cups frozen berries
- 1 medium frozen banana
- ¾ cup coconut water
- 2 tbsp freeze-dried acai berry powder
- Optional toppings: gluten free granola (omit for AIP), fresh fruit, coconut flakes, goji berries (omit for AIP), chia seeds (omit for AIP), bee pollen
- Add coconut water, acai berry powder, frozen fruit and the banana into a high speed blender.
- Blend until a thick and creamy consistency is formed, adding more coconut water if required.
- With the help of a rubber spatula, pour acai puree into two bowls.
- Garnish with fresh fruit and the rest of your favourite toppings!
As you can see, these superfood bowls are not just a pretty face. But if you feel like showing off your creations, don’t forget to tag #wholeheartnutrition and @wholeheartca. I love seeing what you guys come up with and can’t wait for you to try out this recipe. Share your favourite toppings below!
a good smoothie with fantastic ingredients, in what kind of stores can I make with bee pollen? I would greatly appreciate it
Thank you! You can find bee pollen in most health food stores.