Last Wednesday, I was exhausted and sweaty after teaching two gardening classes at the youth detention center and the Salvation Army in Yuba County. It was conveniently the first really hot day we’ve had this year. After I worked all day, I had to do the dreaded house hunting. It was fun at first but now I just want to be done. I was in need of a pick-me-up.
I wanted something refreshing that would cool me off but I was feeling inspired and wanted to be healthy. As a Nutrition major, I am embarrassed to admit that I forget to eat fruit. I eat plenty of vegetables and whole grains but leave fruit out sometimes. Also, how have I avoided açaí bowls this long? They have already reached their trend peak and are starting to die down. I wasn’t nervous and I knew what to expect. It’s just a smoothie in a bowl with little sprinklies on top. I thought this was a good day to jump on the bandwagon.
This one was from OM Foods. They do a lot for vegetarians and vegans so I appreciate them. However, I have a love/hate relationship. The food is outstanding (those nachos!) but I have had my ticket get lost twice while there. I am a quiet and shy person so I don’t ask about my food until way after I should. The first time this happened, I waited over 45 minutes before I learned my ticket was lost. After it happened again, I told myself I wouldn’t go again. But I keep going! They have a monopoly on vegan food in Chico so I really can’t avoid them.
Luckily, my ticket wasn’t lost and I only waited slightly over what felt like a normal time. I ordered the “Chunky Monkey.” I think this is a staple with a lot of smoothie places. It usually has some chocolate aspect with banana and peanut butter. The chocolate here came from cocoa nibs. One thing I like about the OM Foods smoothies and acai bowls is that they have no added sugar. The fruit they use is fresh enough to be sweet on its own. I felt really good after eating this. My body was in need of fruit.
The bowl was under $10. With the specialty ingredients they use, I don’t think I would be able to make it for myself for any cheaper. I am now a believer in acai bowls. They’re like smoothies, but a little more interesting. The toppings add some variety to make it feel like a full meal. This was a good snack and I think I will be back when I have a craving for something sweet.
