Recipes

Berry Blast Açaí Bowl

Mixed berries in the base, fresh berries and a quick berry purée on top.

By Lincoln Moore2 min read

Açaí is always a nutritious idea
Açaí

The BK Berry Blast doubles down on berries: frozen mixed berries in the base, fresh strawberries and blueberries on top, and a fast berry purée spooned over everything. It is tart, deeply purple and not too sweet.

Ingredients

For the base

  • 2 packs (200 g) unsweetened frozen açaí purée
  • 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries
  • 1/2 frozen banana
  • 60 to 80 ml (1/4 to 1/3 cup) milk or coconut water

For the toppings

  • 4 to 5 fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1/4 cup granola
  • 2 tbsp mixed berry purée (below)

How to make it

  1. Make the purée first (see below) so it can cool.
  2. Add the liquid, açaí, mixed berries and banana to the blender.
  3. Blend on low with the tamper until thick.
  4. Spoon into a chilled bowl and top with strawberries, blueberries and granola.
  5. Spoon the berry purée over the top.

Tips for a thick bowl

  • Let the frozen açaí packs sit for 2 to 3 minutes, or run them under warm water for 10 seconds, so they break into chunks.
  • Pour the liquid in first and keep it to the minimum. Add more one tablespoon at a time only if the blender stalls.
  • Blend on low and use the tamper (or stop and stir) instead of adding liquid. You want soft-serve, not a smoothie.
  • Chill the bowl in the freezer while you prep the toppings, then eat right away.

Quick mixed berry purée

Warm 1 cup of frozen mixed berries in a small pan with 1 tsp of honey and a squeeze of lemon for about 5 minutes, mashing as they soften. Blend or press through a sieve for a smooth sauce. It keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Why it works

Berries are rich in fiber and vitamin C, and like açaí they get their color from anthocyanins. Using frozen berries in the base keeps it thick without extra banana.

The lemon in the purée sharpens the berry flavor so you need very little sweetener.

Make it your own

  • No banana: use 1/2 cup more frozen berries and a spoon of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
  • Extra crunch: add chia or hemp seeds.
  • Sweeter: a few slices of fresh banana on top.

More bowls to try: Classic Açaí Bowl, Berry Blast, Tropical, Peanut Butter Banana and Strawberry Nutella. Or browse every açaí bowl recipe.

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