Açai in my house is otherwise known as dinner. We go through one and a half kilos of it every day, blended (not stirred), with banana and a dash of guarana concentrate. Açai (pron: Ah-sah-ee) is one of the healthiest foods on the planet.
On the outside, it’s just a humble berry from an Amazonian palm tree (Euterpe Oleracea) in Brazil. But in reality, Açai is the Clark Kent of the Superfood universe.
It tastes rather astringent and neutral. Locals joke that it tastes like dirt. Indigenous Indians add it to savoury dishes, while southerners enjoy it sweetened. In this respect, Açai follows the same historical footsteps as cacao.
Only Good News Comes From Açai
Traditionally it was used to treat digestive disorders, stimulate the immune system and was a source of quick energy. Of course Indiginous Brazilians didn’t have cardiovascular disease, premature ageing or potency issues, but if they did, they would have treated that with Açai too.
But Wait, There’s More
Acai is low GI and high fiber. Athletes love the stuff, as do people looking to lose weight.
Açai is high in calcium and iron.
It’s super high in Vitamin A and improves vision. Clark Kent will have to lose the glasses now that I made him the face of this stuff.
Finally, it nourishes the nervous system. Do you need to de-stress and relax? Açai is the answer.
For the how’s and why’s, see here and here.
From the Amazon to You
The Amazon is so far from anywhere, and the fruit is delicate. Acai pulp is frozen on site then shipped internationally. Look for the frozen pulp at your local health food store.