What is a smoothie?
A smoothie or smoothie bowl is a beverage made with blended raw fruit or vegetables and sometimes other ingredients, such as dairy products, honey, seeds, and nuts. Smoothies may be thick like shakes or thin like juices. The word “smoothie” is a portmanteau of “smooth” and “shake”. Smoothies are usually thick, less than 5% sugar by volume and are not pasteurized. Smoothies can be homemade or found in stores in both ready-to-drink bottles and to-go cups that are filled from behind the counter. In the United States, smoothies have risen in popularity since the late 1990s; by 2007, Americans consumed 400 million of them per year. Smoothies have been available for purchase in the UK since the early 2000s and have increased in popularity during this time period. Liquids such as milk and juice can also be used instead of water to make a smoothie more filling. Some smoothie recipes include yogurt (such as banana), ice cream (made at home or purchased), soy milk, chia seeds, ground flaxseed (or linseeds), protein powder, peanut butter (or other nut butters), kefir, tofu, kombucha.
How many calories are in a smoothie?
There are plenty of ways to get vitamins and minerals into your diet, but getting them in liquid form is a particularly easy way to consume extra nutrients during the day. Smoothies are a convenient way to add vegetables and fruits to your diet, as well as healthy fats like nuts, seeds, avocado or coconut milk. Smoothies have been gaining popularity for years now because they can be a quick and nutrient-dense meal. For example, you can make a smoothie with frozen berries, yogurt, milk and spinach and you will get almost half your daily recommended intake of iron. The best smoothie recipes include Greek yogurt or kefir (a fermented milk product), which add protein that helps you feel full. The liquid from the fruit is usually water. A single serving of a smoothie will typically range from 250-400 calories and provide you with 5-10 grams of fiber. That’s about 50% more than what you’d find in a glass of orange juice. If you want to add even more flavor without adding excess calories, consider using another fruit juice like apple or grape instead of water.
What is a smoothie bowl?
Smoothie bowls are all the rage these days, but what exactly is a smoothie bowl? A smoothie bowl is a thick smoothie served in a bowl instead of a cup or glass. The main difference between a smoothie and a smoothie bowl is the thickness. A smoothie is typically thinner (like an Orange Julius) and has more liquid, while a bowl tends to be thicker and creamier. The most common ingredients in smoothies include fruit, vegetables, coconut water, yogurt, protein powder and ice. Smoothies can also be made with almond milk or water instead of dairy products. The possibilities for smoothies are endless! Smoothie bowls can be made with the same ingredients as regular smoothies, just in different proportions. Smoothies are typically made to drink right away because they don’t keep well overnight; however, if you plan to eat your smoothie bowl the next day, consider adding less liquid so that it will be thicker when you serve it. An alternative method of preparation is to blend everything together except for the toppings, pour the mixture into a smaller container and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to eat it in the morning, add your toppings and enjoy!
