Friday, July 27, 2018

FRESH ALOHA SMOOTHIE

Tapioca pearls are made from tapioca starch, which is derived from the cassava root. It’s an ingredient commonly used in Asian desserts and drinks. They have a chewy texture and little to no flavor on their own. Also referred to as boba, these can be found in most Asian markets or ordered online. Be sure to buy the special, extra-large bubble tea straws too!


I added some pearls to our smoothies, but it’s totally optional, as it only adds to the texture, not taste

ALOHA SMOOTHIE RECIPE

Welcome the warmer weather with this delicious tropical smoothie! Full of fresh fruit, it's totally natural as well as dairy free, gluten free, and vegan!


Ingredients
Tapioca Pearls (Optional):

  • 4-5 cups water
  • ½ cup large tapioca pearls
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup

Strawberry Puree:

  • 1 cup strawberries, cleaned and hulled
  • 1 tbsp pure maple syrup, optional

Smoothie

  • 2 bananas, in chunks (preferably frozen)
  • 1 cup frozen mango chunks
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple
  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
  • 1 cup fresh orange or pineapple juice, unsweetened almond milk can be used for less sugar.
  • garnish with pineapple wedges, whole strawberries, or shredded coconut, optional

Instructions
Tapioca Pearls:

  • Cook tapioca pearls according to the package directions. When finished, drain tapioca and put it into a small container. Mix with water and maple syrup. Refrigerate until needed.

Strawberry Puree:

  • In a small food processor or blender, puree the strawberries and maple syrup until smooth. Set aside.

Smoothie:

  • In a blender, combine the fruit, milk, and juice. Blend until smooth.

Putting It Together:

  • If using tapioca, distribute the pearls between 2-3 glasses. Top with a spoon or two of strawberry puree and then pour the smoothie mixture over that. When the glass is ¾ full, top with more puree and then finish with the smoothie mixture. Garnish glasses with fresh pineapple wedges, a strawberry, or shredded coconut. .