The beet

Acai has been a popular craze in recent years: the superfruit with a powerful punch of nutrients, such as antioxidants, amino acids, fiber, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Among its many benefits include reducing cholesterol, promoting healthy skin, improves digestive system, aids in weight loss and is also said to have anti-aging effects. While most people associate acai with the trendy acai bowls, it can also be used for a wonderful frozen treat: sorbet!

RECIPE: Acai-Banana Sorbet
Yield: 4 1/2 servings (1/2 cup)
 

INGREDIENTS:
2 ripe medium bananas, peeled
2 – 3.5 oz. packets frozen unsweetened acai puree
1 Tbsp. virgin or extra-virgin coconut oil
1 Tbsp. pure maple syrup
 

DIRECTIONS:

1. Cut each banana into 6 chunks, and freeze until rock solid, preferably overnight.
    
2. With the acai inside the packet, crush the puree into smaller pieces.
    
3. Process the pieces in a food processor to a fine slush. Add the frozen banana chunks, coconut oil and maple syrup, and begin to process (the food processor may jolt in the very beginning). As the bananas break down and combine with the acai, the mixture will look crumbly, then gooey and eventually smooth and slightly slushy, like a sorbet. Stop the food processor frequently to scrape down the side of the bowl and break up any clumps.
    
4. Serve right away or scrape into a container and freeze until ready to serve.