The perfect way to start the day is with an Açaí Bowl. An açaí smoothie base topped with sweet strawberries, bananas, blueberries, granola, and drizzled honey on top. Rich in antioxidants and full of delicious flavors. It’s an energizing, wholesome meal that’s perfect for a morning boost or a refreshing midday snack.
What is an Açaí Bowl?
An açaí bowl is a Brazilian dish made from blended açaí palm berries, originating from the Amazon region. It is usually served as a thick smoothie with toppings like granola, banana, and drizzled with honey. Known for its high antioxidant content, the açaí bowl has become super popular throughout the world. It is the perfect meal for any time of the day and is sure to keep you satisfied!
Açaí Bowls and Hawaii
Acai bowls in Hawaii still have the base of pureed acai berries but are mixed with local fruits like mango, pineapple, papaya, Hawaiian bananas, and etc. Toppings can also change to traditional Hawaiian ingredients like coconut flakes, macadamia, local honey, chia seeds, and bee pollen.
In Hawaii, açaí bowls are not just a delicious treat; they’re a reflection of culture of healthy living and the importance of fresh, local produce. You can find these bowls pretty much anywhere in Hawaii and they’re all so different! I remember eating these after a long day at the beach or bringing it to the beach early in the morning to fill us up!
Creating Your Own Açaí Bowl
Now, I’ll admit, I’m not the kind of person who reaches for fruits often, but when it comes to Acai Bowls, I won’t turn it down. It is just so versatile, healthy, and fills me up most of the day! It’s really just a delicious treat.
Now, to make your own it’s super quick and easy. I typically start with Sambazon Acai Superfruit packs, which you can find at most Costco’s or your local chain grocery store. To add more flavor, I toss in some frozen fruits before blending (my favorites are bananas and strawberries). Sometimes, I add a dollop of almond butter or peanut butter for that extra oomph. When blending, be mindful not to add too much liquid, because the consistency should be thicker than your average smoothie.
Topping Options
Once you’ve achieved that perfect, creamy blend, transfer it into a bowl and we’re gonna add some toppings!! I like to top my Acai Bowl with sliced bananas, juicy strawberries, plump blueberries, crunchy granola, a sprinkle of bee pollen, and a generous drizzle of honey. Here are a few other ideas that you can top your Acai Bowl with:
- Almond Butter, Peanut Butter, or cashew butter
- Other fruits: Kiwi, Raspberries, Mango, Pineapple, Passion fruit, etc.
- Granola is a must!
- Shredded coconut
- Chocolate
- Nuts: Cashews, Macadamia, peanuts, almonds, walnuts, pecans, pistachios, etc.
- Superfoods: Maca powder, Spirulina, Bee Pollen, etc.
- Yogurt
The Best Açaí Bowl on Oahu
When I’m on Oahu, my go-to spot for Acai Bowls is none other than Haleiwa Bowls. If you’re ever in the North shore area, it’s a must-visit. I honestly think this is the #1 place to get acai bowls if you’re on the north shore! What sets them apart is all of their toppings, allowing you to customize your bowl with ingredients like almond butter, granola, and even bee pollen. It just tastes so so good and I just haven’t had anything else like it!
Other spots for Açaí Bowl’s
- Waialua Bakery and Juice bar – This place is so difficult to share because loveeee this spot and it’s so small so it can get overcrowded easily. But you know “sharing is caring” so here it is. They don’t only have amazing smoothies and Acai Bowls but their sandwiches are to die for! Highly Highly recommend this spot if you’re on the North shore.
- Da cove health bar – This spot is super close to Waikiki and was voted one of the best spots to get Acai bowls! They are super delicious and have a great selection of smoothies as well.
- Island Vintage – This spot is located in Waikiki and they have a couple locations. I haven’t tried the Acai bowls here yet but I have heard really good things about them. They also serve great coffee and some other tasty dishes.
If you liked this recipe, check out my Hawaiian Garlic shrimp or Hawaiian BBQ chicken to get a little salty after the sweet! If you’re looking for healthier lighter options, try Poke, this would go perfectly on salad or eaten by itself!
Acai Bowl
Equipment
- 1 Blender
Ingredients
- 1 packet Sambazon açaí superfruit packets
- 3 bananas
- 1-2 cups strawberries
- 1 cup blueberries or mixed berries
- 1 handful spinach
- ½-1 cup almond milk
Toppings:
- Granola
- Almond Butter
- Banana chopped
- Strawberries chopped
- blueberries
- honey
- bee pollen optional
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in Blender and Blend until it has a thick texture. If its too thick add a little bit of almond milk.
- Pour in bowl and top with toppings of choice. Enjoy!!