Açaí--is it worth the hype?

If you haven’t heard of açaí (pronounced ah-sigh-EE), the superfood which comes from the açaí palm, a tree native to the Amazonian rainforest, you certainly haven’t been keeping up on the latest trends in food. This deeply rich purple colored, grape-like fruit is high in antioxidants, vitamin C, and boasts many super power properties such as helping weight loss, arthritis, cancer, cholesterol levels, fight aging, and cardiovascular and digestive health.

Açaí is also rich in fiber, amino acids, and healthy fats, and chocked full of nutrients following the rule of other deeply colored fruits and vegetables--the richer the color, the more nutrients inside (think kale and blueberries, for example) The berry is also touted for its energy boosting abilities, making it a great pick-me-up snack for mid-afternoon.

Acai na Tigela served with banana, granola, honey, and of course, two spoons!

On my recent travels through Brazil, açaí was nearly everywhere, most commonly in a sorbet-like manner served “na tigela” (in a bowl) with sliced banana and granola, or as a juice. A picture of a typical “açaí na tigela” is to the right. What a delicious and tasty snack! I rarely saw a day go by on vacation without a sweet indulgence of açaí.

Like many other tasty fresh fruits, açaí is high in sugar, and for this reason should be consumed within moderation. This is a general rule of thumb that Atlanta Personal Chef Service advises their clients--enjoy all foods but in moderation. Açaí can certainly be incorporated into a healthy diet, but don’t be fooled for a minute thinking its going to add 10 years to your life or make your wrinkles disappear.

If you want to purchase açaí in Atlanta, it is becoming readily available in juice form in most large grocery stores. The juice is typically blended with other fruit juices, but also available as just açaí for a little bit more. You can also find the frozen pulp (which is great for mixing into smoothies) or taste the typical “açaí na tigela” pictured here in Brazilian grocery stores or eateries in the Marietta area.

If you ask me, “Yes, its worth the hype!” I you haven’t tried açaí yet, treat yourself one day.