Laura’s Morning Rocket Fuel: Matcha Smoothie Bowl
I don’t know about you, but this hot weather has completely changed my appetite. I usually start my day with porridge in the winter or overnight oats in the summer but over the last few weeks I’ve craved fruit and swapped my go to oats for this delicious energising smoothie bowl.
Ingredients
Serves 1
For the smoothie:
1/2 cup of coconut milk
Large handful of frozen mango
Half a frozen banana
1 teaspoon of matcha powder
1/2 an avocado
Small handful of ice
1-2 drops of vanilla essence
1/2 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to sweeten (optional)
Toppings:
1 kiwi sliced
Small handful of dried of fresh mango
1 tablespoon of desiccated coconut
Method:
Place all ingredients into a high speed blender and whizz up until smooth. Add more or less mild depending on the consistency you prefer. Transfer to a bowl and top with kiwi, mango and coconut.
The secret ingredient: matcha powder
Matcha is a finely ground powder, processed from green tea leaves. This superfood is rich in antioxidants and contains high levels of the amino-acid L-Theanine. The caffeine content in matcha roughly equal that of a 1/4 cup of coffee however due to the presence of L-Theanine, there are no spikes and crashes. Matcha gives an energy boost whist providing a sense of calm alertness.
Digestion and mindful eating
Unlike a regular smoothie, the thicker consistency of this recipe allows you to slow down as you eat, encouraging more effective digestion. Did you know that you should be chewing your smoothies? Drinking a smoothie is no different to eating solid food. The first part of digestion occurs in the mouth when you chew your food. This activates saliva which contains an enzyme called amylase that helps to break down carbohydrates like the fruit and vegetables found in a smoothie. So when you down your smoothie in just a few gulps, you miss this important process. Slowing down also gives you a chance to practice mindful eating and focus and appreciate the food that you are eating.
I hope you enjoy it – let me know what you think.
Laura