Surrender to the Smoothies

For the last year, since moving to Thailand, I have been a smoothie fanatic and my love for them has only blossomed as I try new recipes.  The best thing about living in this part of Asia is the abundance of fruit and veg to experiment with. 

I feel so spoilt here and am making the most of every tropical fruit available while I still can.  Mangoes are by far my favourite, I don’t think I could ever get bored of them.  The best thing is they never go out of season here on Koh Samui, which is just unbelievably fantastic (for me).  However, I don’t want to put you off by talking about a load of fruit you may not have access to.  Whichever country you are in, it will have its own special seasonal fruits that you can experiment with.

Smoothies are such a nutrient rich energy boost and can even replace a meal if you balance them correctly.  The green smoothie is a particularly jam-packed vitamin injection to try.  All you need to do is add 40% green veg to the blender and 60% of your chosen fruit, then whizz away. To start your day with a green smoothie is such a wise move.  If you include the dark leafy vegetables such as Kale or spinach it is a rich source of calcium and protein.  The fruit will support your body with live enzymes and vitamins in abundance.  If you add two teaspoons of flax seed (linseed) to the smoothie, this will provide you with extra protein, fibre and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.  This is a great nutrient rich start to the day.  The key is to balance with protein and fat.

How to Get Started

The smoothie process is all about finding out what you like.  I have a couple of recipes below to give you an idea of amounts and possible blends, but it really is about experimenting.  All you need is a tabletop food processor/blender, a good knife and a chopping board. 

Start with fruit if making a green smoothie as this is full of water and blends better, the greens will then whoosh in with the fruit pulp easily.  Add the flax/oil and water at the end and be sure to blend until all flax seeds are broken.  If they are still intact your body will not be able to draw the nutrients from them as effectively.  When it comes to water, just add as much as you like to get the consistency you prefer. 

If you are already a keen greener, then add some herbs too, basil, mint or coriander go surprisingly well with fruit.   I like mine quite bitter now and add up to 60% greens sometimes.  It’s all about experimenting.  I would love to hear any ideas you have or recipes you have tried and loved.

Tropical Teaser

½ Small Papaya

½ Mango

2 cups of spinach

2 teaspoons of flax seed

1 tbsp coconut oil

Summer Berry Green Boost

1 cup raspberries

1 cup strawberries

2 teaspoons flax

1 tbsp coconut oil

2 cups kale

Happy blending, be back soon with some more ideas...

Best Wishes

Josie