It is often said that having a variety of colours in our plate is important for a balanced diet. Yet, we rarely think of including foods with shades of blue (except blue cheese, or blue cheese sauce… which you either love or hate!) or purple, and that’s simply because there aren’t a lot of them. What about you? Do you know any foods that are blue except blueberries? Mmm… Some are quite unusual indeed! Why the Colours of Your Plate Are so Important The pigments naturally present in certain foods such as fruits and vegetables are responsible for their red, green, yellow, orange, white (yes, it’s a colour), blue, or purple shades. These pigments, also known as phytochemicals, have beneficial effects on health. They are also known for their antioxidant properties. In fact, the more varied the colours, the more varied the components. Blue Foods Your challenge? Guessing a few blue foods before reading the answers below… Ready, set, go! SIMPLY DELICIOUS: Try this blue chia seed pudding for a colourful presentation! 1. Blue berries When we mention blue foods, the first one that usually comes to mind is the blueberry. These tiny blue balls are widely consumed in Quebec, and that’s no surprise since Canada is the world’s largest wild blueberry producer. Besides, the blueberry is one of the richest fruits in antioxidants, and more precisely in anthocyanin, which is responsible for its blue shade. Blackberries also contain this pigment. Take advantage of blueberry season while its in full swing and make provisions to enjoy this berry all year long. 2. Spirulina extract: blue majik powder Spirulina is a blue-green algae in the form of a powder that is popular because of the nutrients it contains. Blue majik, a product that is increasingly available on the market, is in fact an extract of a pigment found in spirulina called phycocyanin. This powder is most commonly used in beverages such as smoothies in order to get a bright blue colour. As it is the case for most other superfoods, many health benefits are associated with blue majik powder. However, as of today there is not enough scientific evidence to back up these rumours. In fact, many more studies will be necessary before we reach a decisive conclusion. That being said, if you appreciate its taste and colour, nothing stops you from using it for fun, but don’t rely on its nutritional profile and alleged virtues. GOOD TO KNOW: Pimp your sparkling water with spirulina extract for a spectacular result! 3. Concord grapes Mostly available during summer, these grapes are usually imported from Ontario, but we also have a few small producers in Quebec. These grapes are characterized by their blue colour and perfectly balanced sweet and sour taste. This variety is particularly well suited for jam, which can then be used to enhance the taste of plain yogurt or to spread on a whole grain toast. 4. Blue potato Although it is less popular than the new potato, the blue potato is known for its more delicate taste. Its antioxidant content, especially the anthocyanins, are responsible for its bright purplish-blue shade. The latter is therefore 100 % natural! This variety grown in Quebec is just as easy to cook in the oven as regular potatoes. Plus, it brings a nice colourful touch that will surely please the whole family! 5. Blue magic gin An unusual Portuguese product recently captured our attention. Initially bright blue, this magic gin turns pink when mixed with a tonic. In fact, the latter provokes a pH (a measure of acidity) change in the cocktail, which makes the colour go from blue to pink. This gin gets its magic power from all-natural pea flower extracts. Some teas that also include this flower produce the same effect when mixed with lemon juice. A unique idea to try that’ll definitely be talked about!
