Acai Ice Pops

It's summertime around the world right now, well unless you live Down Under like I do BUT given that QLD is warm all year round and we are still getting 20-23c days I think I'm allowed to post this delicious recipe for Acai Ice Pops.  Using some delicious freeze-dried acai powder from SloFoodGrp these little ice pops are frickin delicious (and healthy).  So much so I don't mind letting the nearly 4yr old have one for brekkie!

WHAT IS ACAI

It's known as the super fruit of the Amazon, found in Central & South America.  Often referred to as a fruit (which it isn't by the way) it has become increasingly popular around the world in the last 5+ years.  The Acai berry is about an inch long, has a large stone in the middle almost like a peach does.  It is black/purple in colour and almost looks like a blueberry.  It grows on trees in swampy areas and is harvested twice a year.  Oh, and it's bloody delicious too 😉

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ACAI

I think this is the main reason that Acai became so popular.  Don't get me wrong, it very tasty but I think the fact it's so good for you defo helped it push it's way to the forefront of people's minds.

Acai is high in fiber - good for helping the old digestive system!  It is filled with antioxidants which study shows helps reduce the risk of heart disease, Parkinson's, stress & inflammation to name a few.  Acai contains healthy fats so this helps lower your cholesterol levels.  The berries also contain amino acids that help with endurance levels, performance, and strength.  High in Vitamin C and a good source of Vitamin of A, B1, B2, B3, and E.

Sounds like an acai ice pop a day might just be enough to keep the doctor away!

USING FREEZE DRIED V'S FRESH ACAI

Why don't we use fresh Acai?  Well, the main reason being is the Acai berry only contains about 20-40% fruit. The remainder is the seed so it makes these fellas a little difficult to eat!  Much like peas, Acai can lose a % of its nutritional value so freezing them helps retain as much of the good things as possible.  Therefore we are left with it in a beautiful freeze-dried/powder form that is quick and easy to use in multiple ways.

WHAT ELSE CAN I USE ACAI IN?

Probably the most popular use for Acai is in a bowl or smoothie.  A tablespoon or 2 is added to the blender or mixed in with a fruit bowl to add an extra dimension of flavour, stunning colour and a whole load of health benefits.

Other than this I have seen it used in cocktails, they make acai liqueur, in ice creams, in desserts such as cheesecakes but best of all in the Acai Ice Pops you are about to make 😉

CAN I ADD ALCOHOL TO MY ACAI ICE POPS?

It's 12 o'clock somewhere right?  Sure bloody can, maybe just label them so that you don't give one to the kid by accident!!  Given we are kinda going on the whole pina colada ice pop kinda route I would recommend a little Malibu rum.  How much?  That my friend is a conversation between you and your liver!!

I DON'T HAVE ICE POP MOULDS

Uh oh!  Never fear there are plenty of alternatives.  Grab a paper or plastic cup.  Pour the ice pop is inside, cover the top with clingfilm and leave it to freeze for a couple hours.  After 2 or so hours come back and stick an ice pop stick into it as it will have firmed up enough to hold it in place.

Alternatively, you can use ice cube molds, and even a muffin tray lined with cupcake liners.

OTHER ACAI RECIPES

If the thought and taste of these acai ice pops makes you want more then check out these other recipes to keep you going!

Moscow Mule Caipiroska by Sonila Cami of 'Mediterranean Latin Love Affair'

Tropical Vegan Parfait by Stacey Gero of 'Stacey Homemaker'

5 Minute Fall Acai Bowls by Christine McMichael of 'Jar of Lemons'

Acai Ball Snack by Adrianne Jamieson of 'Sweet Caramel Sunday'

Happy Cooking and Happy Eating Friends!!