Think Latin America, and what pops into your head? Whether it’s salsa dancers, carnivals or spectacular landscapes, they would all be accurate. This region, which stretches from the US, Mexico border all the way down to the southernmost tip of South America and includes the Caribbean, is made up of a large and varied group of countries. With a history of colonisation by European powers that started in the 16th century, Latin American cultures are truly diverse and languages include Spanish, Portuguese, and French. There is a huge range of natural features including mountains, rainforest, volcanoes and tropical islands, so it’s no wonder that the area has such an exotic and colourful appeal.
Latin America also has a fantastic food culture, and several of the new and exciting superfoods that now appear on Western menus have their origins in this region.
Açaí is a dark purple berry that grows on a palm tree and is native to South America. These berries have?anti-inflammatory properties and are rich in antioxidants, and contain fibre, phytosterols (which can lower cholesterol) and healthy fats. Açaí is a popular ingredient in smoothies and juices.
Quinoa is grown as a grain crop for its seeds, and has been an important food in South American for thousands of years. It is an excellent wheat-free alternative to starchy grains and a great source of calcium, magnesium and other minerals, vitamins, fibre, and protein.
Maca is the root of a plant that belongs to the radish family that is grown in the mountains of Peru. It’s often available in powder form, and is full of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and essential amino acids. Maca is said to be an aphrodisiac and also to affect the hormonal system, so if you are pregnant or breastfeeding it is recommended you get professional advice before taking it.
Amaranth is a crop that is grown for its edible starchy seeds. It was cultivated in South America by the Aztecs thousands of years ago and is still a native crop in Peru today. Amaranth is high in protein and fibre, and contains iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and phytosterols.
These super-healthy powders and seeds can be blended with your favourite fruits or vegetables to create a super healthy beverage, known in Latin America as a Licuado.
A Licuado is so refreshing to drink, provides vitality and beats the heat.
Making a Licuado typically involves tropical fruit, such as bananas, papaya, pineapple, or mango but also include delicate ingredients like mint, strawberries, raspberries, or kiwi fruit. Ingredients are blended at high speed with ice, coconut water or coconut milk and for thicker creamier textures yogurt can be added. Licuados may also contain vegetables like carrot, beetroot, spinach or cucumber, along with other healthy additions.
They are so good you’ll soon be ready to salsa dance the night away!
For more information:
Latin American food: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/articles/latin-american-cooking
South American Tourism Office blog: http://www.southamericatourism.com/blog/
Latin American Travel Association: http://www.lata.travel/