| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 315 | 16g | 7g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 25g | 7g | 4g | 0.05g |
There is something quite magical about the Chocolate Açaí Smoothie. Its irreplaceable combination of tropical flavors and the gentle caress of the cocoa truly makes you feel alive. This smoothie is one I cherish dearly as it brings together the vibrancy of the açaí berries, the rich and velvety texture from the ripe bananas, and the subtle sweet notes from the honey, all held together by a dash of almond milk. The dark chocolate chips? Oh, they are just the cherry on top!
A Dance of Flavors
Being of Cuban and Spanish descent, and living in the mosaic of flavors that is Miami, I’ve had the privilege to explore and appreciate a variety of food traditions. The Chocolate Açaí Smoothie borrows from both worlds, carrying with it a touch of tropical Caribbean flavor, and the creamy decadence reminiscent of Spanish dishes like Torrijas, a caramelized French toast.
This smoothie has a striking similarity to a chilled Spanish gazpacho, minus the savory aspect. Its cold and refreshing sensation matched with the simplicity of its preparation puts it in line with the staple Spanish cooler. If you are fond of the açaí bowl, then you’re in for a treat. This smoothie adapts the same primary ingredient, the açaí berry, and presents it in a more sippable, yet still delicious, form.
Nutritious & Delicious
But it’s not just about the taste. This Chocolate Açaí Smoothie provides a wealth of health benefits. Bursting with antioxidants from the açaí berries and dark chocolate, this smoothie is a champion at fighting harmful free radicals in your body. The bananas add a good dose of dietary fiber that promotes healthy digestion, while the almond milk packs in a good amount of vitamin E. And let’s not forget the honey, nature’s very own immune booster.
As an ardent dance teacher, it’s essential for me to believe in nourishment that fuels the body and mind. This smoothie does just that. It offers a healthy dose of energy, perfect for those mornings when you have a long day ahead or evenings when you need to recharge after a session of salsa. And best of all, it not only satisfies the palate but also the soul.
Given its versatility, this smoothie can perfectly complement a tapas spread or serve as a standalone mid-afternoon energizer. It’s a favorite in my household and I’m sure it will dance its way into your heart, too!
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups acai berry puree
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cups crushed ice
- 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips
- 6 strawberries for garnish
Method
Step One
Pour the 2 cups of acai berry puree into the blender.
Step Two
Peel the 3 ripe bananas, break them into smaller pieces and add these in the blender.
Step Three
Next, pour in half a cup of unsweetened almond milk into the blender.
Step Four
Now, add the unsweetened cocoa powder (2 tablespoons) and 3 tablespoons of honey in the blender.
Step Five
Blend these ingredients together until they form a smooth texture.
Step Six
Then, add the crushed ice (2 cups), and the mini dark chocolate chips (1/2 cup).
Step Seven
Blend again until you achieve the desired consistency of your smoothie.
Step Eight
Pour the smoothie into glasses and garnish with fresh strawberries before serving. Enjoy your Chocolate Açaí Smoothie!
