Bruno's Crash Course on Acai

Nicknamed "the beauty berry,” Acai berries are known for their anti-aging and energy boosting qualities. Acai packs a healthy punch full of amino acids, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants that boost the immune system and improve metabolic functions. Not to mention, they taste amazing. The most popular way acai is consumed is in vibrant Instagram-worthy acai bowls, made by blending acai and berries into a smoothie and serving it in a bowl with delicious toppings.

Acai bowls are the perfect treat after class, during a tournament, or just because for Jiu Jitsu practitioners. It is not uncommon to look forward to the Acai Bowl booths, serving big bowls full of pure acai sorbet topped with hemp seeds, coconut shavings, cocoa nibs, fresh berries, and granola at the tournaments. In fact, they're the perfect fresh, light, and filling treat for any occasion.

Acai bowls are becoming more and more popular across the country, making their way onto the menu of of restaurants and shops both big and small. But authentic acai bowls with ingredients that create a taste that is reminiscent of the acai shops in Brazil, like the ones we offer at the gym, are hard to find. However, the perfect authentic acai bowl isn't hard to achieve at home.

You can find acai brands like Sambazon in Chico at health food stores like S&S Produce and Chico Natural Foods CO-OP. They come in individual smoothie packs, bags of frozen berries, and in various juices and premade smoothies. I highly recommend Sambazon brand acai.

Follow these steps to make your own acai bowl:

----------​

• 1 packet Sambazon smoothie pack
• 1 small banana
• 4 strawberries

Optional Ingredients & Toppings:

• 1/2 cup granola

• 1/2 cup guarana (you can mix with 1/2 cup water)

• 1 tbsp peanut or almond butter

• Berries

• Honey

• Hemp Seeds

Run the smoothie pack under water to defrost. Place the smoothie pack, bananas, strawberries, and guarana together in blender. Blend for 2 minutes or until smooth. Pour into a bowl. Top with granola and berries. Enjoy!

----------

Tenha um bom apetite.