As a self-proclaimed acai bowl master, I believe that I have the knowledge, experience, and insight to share my personal, but factual, opinions on what makes an acai bowl so-damn-good and how to make your very own!
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Before I get into this, what IS an acai bowl? I was quite confused about this for some time. After a little research, I discovered that acai bowls are made using acai berries. The acai berry is a reddish-purple fruit from the acai palm tree, native to Central and South America. There are numerous health benefits to this powerful “superfruit.” These berries are rich in antioxidants, have a high source of fiber, and are known for their energy-boosting abilities. Pronounced “ah-sah-EE,” this fruit has a delectable, tangy, and berry-like flavor. This past year, acai bowls have become a huge breakfast trend — and for all the right reasons.
In North America, acai can be purchased in frozen acai pulp packets or in a freeze-dried powder form — both of which can be found in most grocery stores. From here, the frozen acai packets or powdered acai can easily be turned into a delicious acai bowl, acai smoothie, or even acai popsicles for the perfect summer treat!
I’ve had my fair share of tasting acai bowls. From Toronto, I’ve enjoyed acai bowls from The Good Press, Bolt Fresh Bar, and my humble abode. In Florida, I’ve tried acai bowls from Juice Buzz, Juiceateria, and Raw Juce. All of these have been refreshing and oh-so delicious.
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What have I learned from trying so many different variations of acai bowls? A lot.
There are 3 key factors to a delectable acai bowl:
1. Ratio between toppings versus liquid acai
There shouldn’t be too many toppings that the bowl is too dry.
There shouldn’t be too much acai that there isn’t enough crunch.
Ratio is key to making an acai bowl a winner.
2. Toppings
Fresh fruit, dried fruit, and other toppings are highly suggested for flavor enhancement.
Coconut flakes, honey, and cinnamon are always welcome.
The bottom line is that variation in texture and flavor of toppings is crucial.
3. Presentation
Is anyone else a total sucker for presentation?
“OMG, look how pretty it is!” is a common reaction to almost every acai bowl I’ve eaten.
“OMG, look how pretty it is!” is a common reaction to almost every acai bowl I’ve eaten.
This is all before whipping out my phone and snapping a few (okay, a little more than a few) pictures, of course.
Now, to make your own acai bowl, I present to you a simple recipe.
Recipe:
- 1 cut-up frozen banana
- 1 cup of frozen mango
- ½ cup of coconut water
- 1 frozen acai packet
Directions:
- In a high-speed blender, first add in cut-up chunks of frozen bananas, and then add in frozen mango, coconut water, and one acai packet.
- Blend on top speed until there are no visible fruit chunks and it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Poor into a bowl and go crazy with toppings!
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My own creations!
This colorful meal and explosion of flavor will leave you feeling full for hours and will have your ever-present sweet tooth satisfied. It’s healthy for you, too!