Five Exotic Superfoods: Uses

Exotic superfoods may seem like an intimidating addition to your pantry and daily culinary routine - but it's fairly simple and involves some patience and experimenting. Don't be intimidated as these foods can bring you unique flavors and health benefits. Find out how to use various superfoods here. 

 

Acai: not as sweet as your typical berry, but are a great source of antioxidants, protein, fiber, trace minerals, as well as omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids. Acai is renowned for its protective properties against free radicals as well as boosting cell defense. Use a spoonful of acai powder in smoothies, or deserts, breakfast oatmeal or yogurt; it will go a long way to boosting health.

 

Camu Camu is another exotic Amazonian berry that is extraordinarily high in vitamin C, as well as the amino acids valine, leucine, and serine. Camu has a tart and tangy flavor and is a great addition to smoothies, veggie dips, hummus and even citrus desserts.

 

Goji berries are one of the most nutritionally-rich fruits on the planet, packed with vitamins, minerals, protein, and antioxidants. The goji berry flavor resembles a combination of cranberries and cherries, and is a great addition to trail mix, granola, morning oatmeal, healthy cookies, yogurt or cottage cheese, blended in a smoothie, or just plain as a snack.

 

Maca is a root vegetable grown high in the Peruvian Andes; maca has a well-known reputation dating back into prehistory as a powerful enhancer to stamina, strength and libido. Maca is found powdered and can be added into your breakfast oatmeal, used to make granola, stirred into soups or sauces like mole, and even added to guacamole! Get creative!

 

Mesquite is a leguminous tree that makes its home in some of the driest climates on Earth. With its molasses-like flavor, with a slight hint of caramel, you may have already enjoyed mesquite in a variety of foods. Try experimenting with mesquite, in recipes that call for molasses or brown sugar, but remember to add more liquid if substituting for molasses. Mesquite can also be used in smoothies, added to grilling marinades, chili, or other hearty soups, ketchup and more.  

 

Of course adding new flavors can take time to get used to, but get creative, be patient (with recipe substitutions) and try some of these superfoods today!

 

Here's a great superfoods recipe from Navitas Organics

 

Chocolate Energy Bites

with walnut, hemp & maca

 

½ Cup Hemp Seeds

¼ Cup Cacao Powder

3 Tbsp Raw Maca Powder

¾ Cup Walnuts (or i.e. pumpkin seeds if have nut allergy)

6–8 Medjool Dates (depends on size; 6 large or 8 small)

Generous pinch Sea Salt

 

Directions:

In a food processor, grind walnuts, salt, and hemp seeds till fine.
Add the pitted dates, cacao, and maca, and blend till the mixture is uniform and holds together well.

 

Shape into 18-20 balls.
Store in the fridge to firm them up and to keep them fresh.

They should last at least a week - unless you eat them all first!

 

For more on these superfoods click here.