Acai Berry Icecream | Recipe

It’s time for Superfood Feature: ACAI BERRY: Part 2

 

I know I’ve already featured ACAI in the superfood feature series (I think.. UPDATE: I totally haven’t, I published it as a draft- ops!) but I thought I would do a part 2 because I am OBSESSED!

 

So….. 

 

What makes acai berries superfoods?

Acai berries are antioxidant powerhouses which grow in Central and South America. They have 10x the antioxidants of purple grapes and 2x the antioxidants of blueberries.

 

Acai berries contain 10x to 30x more antioxidants than red wine (that’s for you mum); 19 amino acids including a combination of essential amino acids; omega 3s; magnesium and potassium, to name a few. 

 

What’s so good about these nutrients? 

 

Antioxidants: prevent oxidative stress and cellular damage such as aging and cancer. 

 

Amino acids: are the building blocks of protein. Their primary role is to build and maintain muscle, help fight infection (antibodies), assist with muscle contraction, energy and regulate body temperature and metabolism. 

 

Omega 3 fatty acids: Are poly-unsaturated fats which fight against inflammation, are essential for brain health, lower blood triglyceride levels and blood pressure, hormone production and may prevent the risk of Cardiovascular related issues such as diabetes. 

 

Magnesium: promotes restful sleeping and muscle relaxation, thus providing relief for cramps, muscle soreness and menstrual cycle pain, supports bone health and immune function, and maintains blood sugar levels and blood pressure. 

 

Potassium: is an electrolyte and required in hydration after exercise, Found in bananas and coconut oil, works with magnesium in muscle contraction, maintains eye health and vision, essential for heart health and helps to balance acidity and alkalinity within the body. 

 

You can buy  ACAI in the powder form or frozen. I personally use the powder and like to include a tablespoon in smoothies, bliss balls, combine with coconut milk to make dairy free yoghurt, and, of course, create some summer loving ice cream! 

ACAI BERRY ICE-CREAM 

Dairy Free | Vegan | Gluten Free | Refined Sugar Free

Ingredients:

2 tbs acai berry powder

1.5 cups coconut cream, whipped (I used a whisk)

2 frozen bananas

½ cup blueberries

How to:

> Blend acai powder + coconut cream until smooth.

> Add bananas and blend until mixture is looking creamy and thick.

> Add in blueberries and blend till smooth (if the ice-cream is too soft, freeze for 8-10 > minutes until firm)

> Serve with a garnish of mint + fresh berries.

Leftover? Pour into ice cubs, moulds or freeze proof container for easy access when you have those sugar fixes!

* stores in freezer for up to 4 months

K x