Asaí, azaí, huasaí or, in Portuguese, Açaí (Euterpe oleracea) is a palm that grows in northern South America and its fruit is one of the most nutritious foods in the world. Its qualities have been known since prehistoric times and its cultivation in Brazil proliferated between the 1980’s and 90’s. Very recently açaí became famous around the world and is consumed in energy bars, ice cream, capsules, gel and creams.

The pulp of this miraculous little, bordeaux colored fruit contains high doses of proteins, carbohydrates, fiber, calcium, iron, vitamin A and C, anti-cancer properties, several antioxidants and high caloric value. It’s regularly consumed by surfers and often replaces a meal. Açai is commonly eaten frozen with guarana syrup used as sweetener. By the way, it is always better to order it with “pouco xarop” (less syrup). It’s a very rich fruit and goes well with banana, morango (strawberry), granola and honey.

In Rio, it’s sold in all the juice bars in cups of 200, 300 and 500 ml and “na tigela” (in a bowl). The quality can vary greatly from one bar to another. The best are: BiBi Sucos (addresses on www.bibisucos.com.br), Kice Sucos (Av Nossa Sra de Copacabana 1033. Copacabana), O Siri Cascudo, the owners are surfers and the prices are very affordable (Rua Otaviano Francisco 67, Galaria River. Arpoador), and Tacacá do Norte for the true Amazonian açai, (Rua Barão do Flamengo, 35. Flamengo). Bon Appetit!