Smoothie Bowls are taking the smoothie world by storm, or are they? I would best describe them as deliciously tasting “glorified smoothies” with a carefully chosen topping array. Although they look intricate in pictures, please know that when I’m making one for myself (that won’t be photographed, of course)- I don’t quite perfectly align the chia seed trail or the bananas in a loop shape twirl. I’m practically pouring a smoothie into a bowl and quite literally throwing in toppings. There’s no focus on aesthetics- just on achieving a great tasting blend.

The other thing I will say is, when you eat a smoothie with a spoon, it needs to be creamier and denser than the type of smoothie you would drink. There’s two very easy ways to achieve this desired density or pudding-like texture: adding frozen bananas and soaking chia seeds on the base i.e. the milk you will use for a few minutes. They absorb or trap the moisture and give it a tapioca like feel. They are also incredibly good for you and very filling due to their high protein content.

So it’s pretty obvious that I am a chocaholic, but let’s talk a bit more about the other star ingredient in this bowl: Maca! You’ll want to know more about this one, I assure you. Maca has been cultivated in central Peru for over 3,000 years. I’s now sold in powder-like form in most natural health food stores and boasts a myriad of benefits. It is said to give you a huge energy boost, improve your immune system, your libido, and help clear problematic skin. Personally, the only claim I can attest to is the wonderful energy kick that sets in. But please note; before you go ahead and buy a huge jar of Maca powder, read the precautionary contraindications thoroughly. If you’re pregnant or nursing- it’s not advisable for you to take it. Taste wise, you’ll find it very similar to butterscotch. It has a nutty like flavor with a hint of sweetness. Since we use such a small amount, you may find it hard to even isolate the taste.

For this smoothie you will need:

• 2 frozen bananas cut into chunks
• 1/3 cup of almond/soy or coconut milk *preferably carrageenan free
• 2 tablespoons of raw cacao powder (if you can’t find it, you can substitute with cocoa powder)
• 1/2 tablespoon of pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon of pure maca powder
• 1 tablespoon of chia seeds

Blend for 20-25 seconds on high 7 enjoy!! I topped this bowl with dried coconut, walnuts, bananas, and chia seeds. Feel free to use whatever topping(s) you desire.

*Carrageenan has been linked to cancer by some preliminary studies. I always ensure my almond or coconut milk brand is carrageenan free. Most mainstream almond milk brands have carrageenan.