Tropical Dream Rice Krispie Treats
Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: December 17, 2022
And the craziness continues. We finally found a buyer for our house, that meant we had to go look for a new home. Last weekend, my mom watched the kids as my husband and I drove fourteen hours down south to look at houses. We must have looked at about thirty houses the first day and that was all in six hours. After already owning two houses, we know what we want and what we don’t. Our realtor was awesome, he was patient and understanding. We were supposed to spend two days looking at house, but since we saw most of our list the first day, we ended up finding “the one” that day. Now it’s time to start packing!
In the meantime, Oh! Nuts sent me an email asking if I wanted samples of their product to try in my recipes. Who am I to say no to dried fruits and nuts. They had so many options to choose from. Just check it out for yourselves here. I ended up choosing dried guava slices and dried pineapple tidbits. I was in a tropical mood.
Of course, we had to do some taste testing first. I had no doubt my daughter would like them, she eats anything. Her brother, Mister Picky, is finicky about what goes in his mouth. I was surprised that he even wanted to try the guava and pineapple. And I was even more surprised when he asked for more. I don’t blame him, they are pretty good.
Since I was in a tropical mood, I thought some tropical Rice Krispie treats were in order. I chopped up the quava slice and the pineapple tidbits into smaller pieces and added them to the treats along with some macadamia nuts, white chocolate and a little coconut flavor to round it out.
I had never thought to buy coconut extract before, but boy does it smell delightful. Most of the dried fruit I cut up did end up in the recipe. I may have lost a piece or two when I turned my back on the minions. They sure are sneaky.
Now comes the topping. I wanted something light, fluffy, and coco-nutty. On my Lime Coconut Rice Krispie Treats with Tequila, I just used shredded coconut and marshmallow fluff, but this time I wanted to use to coconut cream and some toasted coconut.
I toasted up some sweetened coconut flakes in a pan until it was to my liking. Then I whipped up some marshmallow fluff, cream of coconut, and vegetable shortening together to make the fluffy frosting.
I was really looking for coconut cream, but didn’t find it. I was grocery shopping with the two little minions and they didn’t have the patience to look up and down every aisle. So cream of coconut it was. It is already sweetened and it is used mostly for drinks, but it works in a pinch. The cream of coconut still has a lot of liquid, but if you put the can overnight in the fridge, the fat will come to the top and you just scoop out what you need for the frosting. Or you can throw it in the freezer for a bit. Just try to get as much of the thick fatty part into the frosting as possible, so you have a fluffier frosting.
Then just spread on the coconut frosting and sprinkle it with the toasted coconut. Pop the whole thing in the fridge for an hour or two and it is ready to be sliced and eaten.
It really does taste like a tropical dream. Lots of coconut, pineapple, and guava flavor. Thanks Oh! Nuts for the inspiration. Now I need to get back to packing. I guess all that free time that I thought I was going to have after becoming a stay at home mom at the beginning of this month is not going to be so free anymore. But it is all for the better. I can’t wait to bake in my new kitchen!
Tropical Dream Rice Krispie Treats
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Keywords: no bake dessert snack coconut pineapple guava marshmallow fluff bars rice krispie treats American summer
Ingredients (24 bars)
For the treats
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 5 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 6 cups Rice Krispie (or generic) cereal
- 1/2 cup chopped, Oh! Nuts dried guava slices (about 4 slices)
- 1/2 cup chopped, Oh! Nuts dried pineapple tidbits
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup chopped, macadamia nuts
For the frosting
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff
- 1 1/4 cup cream of coconut
For the topping
- 1/2 cup sweetened coconut flakes
Instructions
For the treats
In a large sauce pan, melt butter and marshmallows over low heat. Stir until completely melted.
Remove from heat and add coconut extract. Stir until completely mixed.
Then add the cereal, pineapple, guava, chocolate chips, and nuts. Mix until all is well incorporated.
Then pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 pan or a cookie sheet and spread it evenly with a piece of waxed paper.
Place in fridge to cool and set.
For the frosting
In a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, whisk together the shortening, fluff and cream of coconut on medium speed, slowly increasing to fast speed until frosting is light and fluffy like a meringue.
Spread frosting evenly over the treats.
For the topping
Place coconut flakes in a medium frying pan and cook over medium heat on the stove top until flakes are a golden brown. About five minutes. Stir occasionally so that the flakes don’t burn.
Sprinkle the toasted flakes over the frosting and place the treats back in the fridge for an hour or two for the frosting to set.
Then cut into squares and take a bite!
Disclaimer: Oh! Nuts did provide me with some of the products used to make this recipe, but I was under no obligation to develop a recipe for them nor provide a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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Is Asparagus Acidic? Asparagus and Acid Reflux
Asparagus is a beloved vegetable known for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits. But for individuals suffering from acid reflux, it raises a common question: Is asparagus acidic, and can it aggravate or alleviate acid reflux symptoms? In this article, we’ll explore the acidity of asparagus, its nutritional profile, and its potential effects on acid reflux sufferers.
Understanding Acid Reflux and Diet
What Is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid travels back up into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort. This condition is often linked to dietary choices, making it vital to assess whether specific foods, like asparagus, trigger or alleviate symptoms.
How Diet Impacts Acid Reflux?
Certain foods are known to trigger reflux by:
- Relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which normally prevents acid backflow.
- Increasing stomach acid production.
- Irritating the esophageal lining.
Dietary management is a cornerstone of acid reflux treatment, which means understanding the properties of each food, including asparagus, is crucial.
Is Asparagus Acidic or Alkaline?
The pH Level of Asparagus
On the pH scale, asparagus is considered a low-acid food with a pH ranging between 6.0 and 7.0, depending on its preparation. Foods with a pH above 7.0 are classified as alkaline, while those below 7.0 are acidic. Research suggests that asparagus sits near neutral, making it a mild choice for those monitoring their dietary acid intake.
Raw vs. Cooked Asparagus
The pH of asparagus can vary slightly based on its preparation:
- Raw asparagus retains more of its natural alkalinity and nutrients.
- Cooked asparagus (especially steamed or boiled) may have a softer texture, making it easier to digest for some individuals with reflux.
Alkaline Properties of Asparagus
While not fully alkaline, asparagus contains certain compounds that promote an alkaline environment in the body, which may help neutralize stomach acid and reduce reflux symptoms.
Nutritional Profile of Asparagus
Asparagus is not just a culinary delight; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients that contribute to overall health. Here’s what makes it stand out:
Key Nutrients in Asparagus
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate.
- Minerals: Contains potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron.
- Antioxidants: High levels of glutathione, an antioxidant that reduces inflammation.
- Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
- Prebiotics: Contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health.
Health Benefits of Asparagus
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Helps reduce inflammation, which may benefit individuals with acid reflux.
- Improved Digestion: Fiber and prebiotics in asparagus support healthy bowel movements and gut microbiota.
- Heart Health: Potassium and antioxidants promote cardiovascular health.
- Immune Support: High levels of vitamin C and other antioxidants boost immunity.
Asparagus and Acid Reflux: Potential Effects
Can Asparagus Trigger Acid Reflux?
While asparagus is not inherently acidic, it may still cause reflux in certain situations:
- Seasoning Choices: Adding acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar during preparation could trigger symptoms.
- Overeating: Consuming large portions of any food, including asparagus, can put pressure on the LES and lead to reflux.
- Individual Sensitivity: Some individuals may have unique sensitivities that make asparagus a trigger food.
Benefits of Asparagus for Acid Reflux
For many, asparagus can be a reflux-friendly addition to their diet:
- Mildly Alkalizing: Asparagus helps create a less acidic environment in the stomach, which may alleviate reflux symptoms.
- Promotes Digestion: Fiber content aids in digestion, preventing bloating and constipation that can exacerbate reflux.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: May help soothe the esophagus and stomach lining.
How to Incorporate Asparagus into a Reflux-Friendly Diet
Tips for Cooking Asparagus
- Opt for Gentle Cooking Methods: Steaming or boiling preserves nutrients while making asparagus easier to digest.
- Avoid Trigger Ingredients: Skip acidic additions like lemon juice, garlic, or spicy seasonings.
- Pair with Alkaline Foods: Combine asparagus with alkaline-rich foods such as quinoa, sweet potatoes, or bananas to balance stomach acidity.
Portion Control
Stick to small to moderate portions of asparagus to avoid overwhelming the stomach. Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day can also help reduce reflux episodes.
Timing of Consumption
Avoid eating asparagus—or any food—close to bedtime, as lying down after a meal can increase the likelihood of reflux symptoms.
Alternative Vegetables for Acid Reflux Sufferers
If asparagus doesn’t sit well with you, consider these acid reflux-friendly alternatives:
- Zucchini: Mild and easy to digest, zucchini is a versatile vegetable for reflux sufferers.
- Cucumber: Naturally hydrating and alkaline, cucumber is a refreshing option.
- Broccoli: Rich in nutrients and low in acidity, broccoli is generally well-tolerated.
Related to Read: Zucchini Recipes
Lifestyle Changes for Managing Acid Reflux
Adopt Acid-Reflux-Friendly Eating Habits
- Chew food slowly and thoroughly.
- Avoid overeating by sticking to smaller meals.
- Maintain an upright posture for at least 2–3 hours after meals.
Avoid Common Trigger Foods
Limit or eliminate highly acidic, fatty, or spicy foods like tomatoes, citrus fruits, fried foods, and chocolate.
Manage Stress Levels
Stress can exacerbate acid reflux by increasing stomach acid production. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
What the Experts Say About Asparagus and Acid Reflux?
Nutritional Research on Asparagus
Research highlights asparagus as a vegetable rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and gut-friendly prebiotics. While direct studies on its effect on acid reflux are limited, its overall properties make it a potential ally in a reflux-friendly diet.
Recommendations from Nutritionists
Many nutritionists recommend asparagus as a low-acid vegetable suitable for most people with acid reflux. However, they emphasize the importance of individual tolerance and moderation.
Asparagus Recipes: Asparagus Tempura
Roasted Asparagus With Miso Butter And A Poached Egg
Conclusion
So, is asparagus acidic? Not exactly. With its near-neutral pH and alkaline-promoting properties, asparagus is generally a reflux-friendly food. For most individuals, it can be safely included in a reflux management plan, provided it’s prepared and consumed thoughtfully.
However, acid reflux triggers vary from person to person. It’s essential to monitor your body’s response to asparagus and make adjustments as needed. Incorporating this nutritious vegetable alongside other lifestyle changes can help you better manage acid reflux and enjoy a balanced diet.
FAQs
1. Is asparagus good for acid reflux?
Yes, asparagus is generally good for acid reflux due to its low acidity and digestive benefits. However, individual tolerance may vary.
2. Can cooking asparagus reduce its acidity?
Cooking asparagus doesn’t significantly change its pH, but steaming or boiling can make it easier to digest, potentially reducing reflux symptoms.
3. Are there vegetables better than asparagus for acid reflux?
Vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and broccoli may be better suited for some individuals, depending on personal tolerance.
4. Does asparagus cause gas or bloating?
Asparagus contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber, which can cause gas or bloating in some people, especially if eaten in large amounts.
5. Should I eat asparagus raw or cooked for acid reflux?
Cooked asparagus is usually easier to digest and less likely to trigger reflux symptoms compared to raw asparagus.
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