Why is Acai known as a superfood and what dishes can you make from it?

 What is Acai?

Acai (ah-sigh-EE) berries are found in the Amazon rainforest, a 1-inch round fruit grown on acai palm trees, have dark purple skin that is nutritious and tasty. Acai berry is a popular fruit among other berries and it provides even more key nutrients for healthy growth. Eating Acai for breakfast can help fuel your body, improve stamina levels, and provide a good source of protein.

Why is it a Superfood?

Acai berries are loaded with antioxidants, fibre, omega fatty acids, and also contain other trace minerals like zinc, iron, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, and chromium. The reason behind naming them a superfood is because it improves various health-related problems like arthritis, weight loss, is good for the heart, boosts cognitive ability, cholesterol levels and neutralises the damaging effects of free radicals that lead to life-threatening diseases.

Dishes you can make using Acai -

1. Acai Bowl

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of Frozen Mixed Berries
• 1 Frozen Banana
• 150 g Açaí Purée (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup of Milk
• ½ cup of Yoghurt (optional)

Toppings:

• 1 Sliced Banana
• Chopped Strawberries
• ¼ Cup Granola

Method of preparation:

1. Slice a banana, freeze all the fruits completely and transfer into a baking sheet.
2. Later, add the berries to the same baking sheet and freeze until they get frozen.
3. Now, add milk to another large bowl and move all frozen fruits with açaí purée and blend it thoroughly until you get a creamy texture.
4. Finally, serve in a bowl with some favourite toppings and experience a healthy açaí bowl.

2. Acai Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 200 g of Açaí Purée
• 1½ cup of Oats
• 1 cup of unsweetened Almond Milk
• 1 large Banana
• 2 tbsp. Butter

For Toppings:

• Blueberries and other berries
• Maple Syrup

Method of preparation:

1. Take oats and add them into a blender and pulse it well.
2. Pour in the milk with banana and blend till you get a sticky batter.
3. Later, add the Açaí Purée into the blender and blend finely.
4. On medium flame, heat a pan and add butter.
5. Now pour the batter into the pan.
6. Cook the pancakes from both sides properly.
7. Finally, top with berries and syrup to enhance the flavour.

3. Acai Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 4 tbsp. of Açaí Powder
• 2 Frozen Bananas
• 1/2 cup frozen Strawberries
• 1/2 cup frozen Raspberries
• 1 tbsp. of Hemp Seeds
• 1 cup of Almond Milk 

Method:

1. Take a bowl, add in all ingredients and blend it thoroughly till you get a proper smooth consistency.
2. Once done, transfer the smoothie into a bowl and serve.

Conclusion

Acai superfoods are easily available in the market, but make sure you choose the best quality and organic acai products. Acai bowls can also be a great pre-workout snack, as they may help increase overall energy and stamina levels. There are many advantages of eating acai and many other recipes you can try at home.