Recipes

Tropical Açaí Bowl with Mango, Pineapple and Coconut

Mango and pineapple in the base, passion fruit on top: the brightest bowl in the lineup.

By Lincoln Moore2 min read

Tropical açaí bowl with mango, kiwi, coconut and granola

The menu called this one the Tropic Blunder, though there is nothing wrong with it. Frozen mango and pineapple turn the açaí base a little lighter and a lot sunnier, and a spoonful of passion fruit on top adds a sharp, fragrant finish.

If you only have frozen mango, it still works. The pineapple just adds a little tang.

Ingredients

For the base

  • 2 packs (200 g) unsweetened frozen açaí purée
  • 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
  • 1/4 cup frozen pineapple chunks
  • 60 to 80 ml (1/4 to 1/3 cup) coconut water

For the toppings

  • 1/3 cup fresh mango, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh pineapple, diced
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1/4 cup granola
  • 1 tbsp passion fruit purée, or the pulp of 1 fresh passion fruit

How to make it

  1. Add the coconut water, açaí, mango and pineapple to the blender.
  2. Blend on low with the tamper until thick. Tropical fruit releases more juice than banana, so go easy on extra liquid.
  3. Spoon into a chilled bowl.
  4. Top with the mango, pineapple, granola and coconut.
  5. Spoon the passion fruit over the top just before eating.

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.

Why it works

Mango and pineapple are both rich in vitamin C, and mango adds vitamin A. Pineapple also contains bromelain, a natural enzyme, which is why fresh pineapple can make your tongue tingle.

Swapping banana for tropical fruit gives a lighter, tangier base for days when you want something more refreshing than filling.

Make it your own

  • Creamier base: add half a frozen banana.
  • No passion fruit: squeeze a little lime over the top instead.
  • Extra crunch: toasted macadamia nuts or cashews.

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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