Acai berries are dark purple pearls that for a long time remained a hidden treasure of tropical forests of South and Central America. Recently, they have gained immense popularity around the world – and all this because of the publicity they received from healthy eating enthusiasts. What properties do Acai berries have?
Acai berries – what a fruitwhich was promoted to one of the most valuable superfood so quickly? These small, dark purple balls grow on tall palm trees in tropical forests. They resemble our native berries, but they are much smaller and are characterized by a characteristic taste – as if someone combined the sweetness of blueberries with a hint of dark chocolate. Fresh Acai berries break quickly after breaking, so apart from places where they grow naturally, there is practically no chance to buy this food in its original form. Manufacturers, however, found clever solutions, offering several variants, mainly dried fruit and powder.
What properties do Acai berries have? These inconspicuous fruits are real leaders when it comes to the content of antioxidants – they contain much more than red grapes. Anthocyanins, which give them an intense purple color, act like a natural shield that protects cells against free radical damage.
What distinguishes Acai berries from other fruits? First of all, their fat profile. Unlike typical fruit, they contain a lot of healthy omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fats. It’s the same that you will find in nuts or avocado. These substances support the work of the heart and brain.
Another advantage of Acai berries is a negligible amount of sugar. Their additional advantage is the presence of dietary fiber, which contributes to stabilization of postprandial glucose, gives long -lasting satiety and reduces blood cholesterol levels. One must not forget that the high concentration of vitamin C, i.e. ascorbic acid, can improve immunity like a natural antibiotic. The dot above and their healthy properties is the content of iron, magnesium and potassium.
Acai berries – how to eat and use these purple and tasty fruit in the kitchen? First, put on powder because it’s the easiest way. One teaspoon for your favorite smoothie and voilà! The drink will take on a beautiful color plus a chocolate aftertaste. Add a banana, coconut milk and a little honey to it, and you will turn it into a creamy drink full of energy. Frozen fruit purée opens the door to the Acai Bowl world. This dense smoothies served in bowls are real works of art. Blend frozen fruit to a smooth mass. We suggest using Mango for this, which you can combine with coconut flakes. Then add granola, Acai berry powder, chopped nuts and fresh raspberries to them. This is a position like Instagram.
How to use Acai berries in the kitchen? The powder based on them is great in baking. Add it to chocolate cake, muffins or pancakes – you will get an amazing color and taste. In turn, eat dried berries like raisins or throw into homemade granola with oatmeal and nuts. You can also buy Acai berry juice – it’s a good introduction to culinary experiments. Mix it with orange juice and blended banana or create a refreshing drink with coconut water and lime. Also try homemade ice cream – blueberry purée, Greek yogurt, a little honey and freezer. Acai berries have an intense taste, so do not overdo them – especially at the beginning. A teaspoon of powder is a perfect start portion. Experiment with additions – cinnamon and vanilla emphasize chocolate notes, and yogurt adds cream. Lick your fingers.
Sources: Healthlabs.com, Vitapedia.pl, Terazpoczy.pl
