Superfood Feature: The health benefits of Baobab (new to Aussie shores!)

By Amy Crawford

Have you guys heard about the latest (and very interesting kid) to hit the superfood blocks? As far as superfoods go, this one appears to be causing a bit of an excitable commotion here in Australia, having very recently hit our shores. It would therefore be remiss of us not to not to welcome its arrival without a formal intro from us Aussies. Without further ado, we welcome the newest addition to our Superfood Features, Boabab.

What is it?

The Baobab fruit, pronounced; BEY-oh-Bab, comes from the iconic Baobab Tree, which is also known as the monkey bread tree, the cream of tartar tree, the "upside down tree,” the tree of life. Essentially it is "the king of trees" (that makes it some tree, for sure ;-).

To create Baobab in its powdered and edible form, the ancient Baobab fruit pulp dehydrates naturally inside the fruit of the Baobab tree which is later removed from the hard shell of the fruit. The fruit pulp is then separated from the seeds and sieved into a powder, and that's it! No processing, nothing more. As such, nutrients are not lost and the powder remains unprocessed in its natural form, as if you picked it yourself.

The Baobab tree truly is versatile - the fruit, leaves, bark, root, seed and seed oil can be utilised.

Why is it good for you?

Baobab is extremely high in Vitamin C (6 x the vitamin C of an orange), has a superior antioxidant (2 x the antioxidant capability of acai berry) and polyphenol content profile. Studies have revealed that polyphenols have the ability to protect the body from free radical damage. These properties support the immune system and skin health. Other research on polyphenols has indicated that the addition of Baobab into a meal can significantly reduce the rate at which sugar is released into the blood supply and therefore balance blood sugar.

Baobab powder is also considered to be a great rehydration agent due to the high electrolyte profile, namely potassium and magnesium. In addition these electrolytes and iron are all important alkalising minerals to promote correct body pH. Baobab powder is also a natural multivitamin providing the body with vitamin B that contributes to endurance and energy.

How do we eat it?

This is a super versatile superfood. With a taste of caramel pear with subtle tones of grapefruit, the uses of this amazing food are nearly endless. What's more, the high content of natural pectin that acts as a natural thickener in foods is great for providing texture to a dish.

Serving suggestions:
Add to: water, smoothies, tea, and fruit juices
Sprinkle on: cereal, yoghurts, fresh fruit and fresh salads
Use in: healthy desserts, bliss balls, raw cheesecake, snack bars, soups, jams, ice-cream & sorbets, sauces & salad dressings.

Wondering where to purchase it?

We are very happy to support Rawsome Foods as they import Baobab to Australian shores. You can read more about the story behind Baobab and its African origins and purchase this exciting product here.

I think that Baobab powder would complement the flavour profile of our Clean Eats Banana Smoothie. Let me know if you try it out and agree. Who has been experimenting with Baobab? Have you any yum serving suggestions to share?