Acai bowls are one of the best ways to get a balanced and filling breakfast, in a convenient and attractive package. You can even make the smoothie base for an acai bowl ahead of time, and stir it up before quickly topping it when it is time to serve.
Acai bowls can literally be eaten every day and will provide just the right amount of nutrition to jump-start your day. The only concern becomes boredom with always eating the same thing, which can cause you to cheat on your meal plan.
By making your bowl unique and different all the time, you can prevent food fatigue and continue to enjoy the benefits of acai bowls for years.
1. Homemade granola
Making your own granola lets you control not only the sugar content (store-bought brands can be crazy) but also the flavor profile of the granola. You can use a variety of add-ins, flavor with different spices, the options are endless!
2. Different Nuts
Some nuts are more common than others for acai bowl toppings, so using some less common nuts can add interesting flavor elements that will keep you intrigued. Chop up brazil nuts or macadamias instead of the traditional pecans for a more exotic flavor.
3. Mix up the Base
Changing up the ingredients of your base is a great way to add interest. Instead of the standard berries, use tropical fruits like pineapple, or even harvest flavors like steamed pumpkin into the base.
4. Spice It Up!
Along with changing the flavor base, try adding appropriate spices. Add cayenne to a tropical base, or cinnamon and nutmeg to a fall base that includes pumpkin. In addition to the flavor bonus, this lets you get the nutritional bonus of these spices.
5. Use Different Grains
Instead of just granola, try toasted quinoa or steel-cut oats, steamed and chilled wheat berries, or puffed millet. These different grains will give textural variety, as well as flavor and a nutritional boost.
6. Use a Variety of Fruits
Picking fruits that are seasonal will allow you to keep the flavors changing all the time, while still getting the most nutritional and flavorful boost all year round.
7. Add A Creamy Element
Acai berries are lower in sugar and higher in fat than most fruits. This makes acai bowls great at keeping you full for longer while eliminating the blood sugar crash you would get from just eating a bowl of fruit.
Adding a creamy element can make that full feeling last longer, but it also adds a ton of flavor and richness. While you can use dairy products like milk and yogurt, you can also use vegan options like oat milk or almond milk yogurt to give that same creaminess.
8. Mix in Other Superfoods
Another way to make your acai bowl keep you full longer and have some variety of texture is to mix in other high energy foods. Try stirring in hydrated chia seeds, or blending kale into the smoothie base.
9. Top It Off
In addition to your fresh fruits and grains, add ingredients that will add flavor and nutrients. Shave dark chocolate, toasted coconut, or dried fruits. These ingredients can be super nutrient-dense and full of flavor and texture.
10. Go Savory
Acai is a tart and slightly sweet fruit, so it is traditional to mix it with sweet flavors to offset the tartness. It is totally possible to use it as a base for something more savory, adding elements like avocado and fresh herbs, to create a deeper interplay of flavors.
Acai bowls are a fantastic way to add superfoods into your diet. By adding variety, you can make them a unique part of your diet that is not a fading fad.