Açaí

What Is Açaí?

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea) is the small, dark purple fruit of the açaí palm, which grows in clusters in the Amazon Basin. Its edible flesh is very thin and surrounds a large pit.

Because the fresh fruit spoils very quickly after harvest, it is mostly processed in the growing region; it reaches the rest of the world as frozen puree, powder, or juice. It is known for its dark color and mildly earthy, chocolate-like flavor.

Açaí Nutrition Facts

Unlike most fruits, açaí puree contains some fat as well as approximately 70 kcal per 100 g; it is rich in fiber and plant-based antioxidants. Values are approximate for unsweetened puree; check the amount of added sugar in ready-made products.

What Are the Benefits of Açaí?

With its fiber and plant-based antioxidants, açaí can be included as part of a balanced diet; attention should be paid to the amount of added sugar in ready-made products.

This is general information; açaí is a food, not a medical treatment.

How to Choose Açaí

When buying frozen açaí puree, look for plain options (unsweetened or lightly sweetened); choose açaí with no additives when buying powder. A dark purple color is a sign of quality puree.

• Frozen puree should be dark purple and, if possible, unsweetened.
• Choose powder with no additives.
• Check the amount of added sugar.

How to Store Açaí

Keep frozen açaí puree in the freezer and do not refreeze it after thawing; store açaí powder in a sealed container in a cool, dry place. Fresh fruit is not practically available because it does not keep well.

Using Açaí in the Kitchen

Açaí is most often used in smoothies and açaí bowls; blend frozen puree with fruits such as bananas, then top with granola, fresh fruit, and seeds. Powder is also used to add color and flavor to drinks and desserts.

How to Make an Açaí Bowl

Blend frozen açaí puree with a little liquid and banana until thick. Transfer it to a bowl and top with granola, fresh fruit, and nuts or seeds; eat it with a spoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is fresh açaí hard to find?

Because it spoils very quickly after harvest, fresh fruit is rarely available outside the growing region; it is therefore sold as frozen puree or powder.

What does açaí taste like?

It is not very sweet and has a mildly earthy flavor reminiscent of blackberries and dark chocolate, so it is usually sweetened with fruit.

How do you use açaí powder?

Add one or two 4 ml measures of powder to smoothies, yogurt, and desserts to add color and flavor.