Coconut, pineapple, papaya, and cinnamon are the harmonious flavors of my household. Whether from a cousin’s Mason Jar or our own Vitamix blender, they are always a delight. But, beyond the flavors of the smoothie, I cherish more the person behind it.
Growing up five years apart from my older sister, it is not an understatement to say that we have had our fair share of disputes, and usually over trivial occurrences as well. However, those petty instances escalate so much that sometimes I wished I didn’t have a sister at all.
In spite of all that, when I hear the words, “Leilani, I just made my special fruit smoothie. Try it. I know you will love it,” it seems like all of our differences fade away. Regardless of whether I was in the mood for the heaviness of coconut cream or the tang of cinnamon, my sister took the time and effort to create something that she was proud of, just for me. Filling a glass, she would carefully wipe the rims as if she was serving her creation to an esteemed judge, and watch with a smile as I sipped her masterpiece. I will forever be in the mood for her creamy special fruit smoothie.
The coconut cream provides a distinctive nutty flavor akin to an almond alongside a candied touch of sweetness. Not only is this a flavor that can be used to brighten up savory dishes, but it can also be used in baked goods and smoothies such as this one. Coconut cream’s versatility is astounding, the way it never fails to deliver a new taste and texture with every use, leaving you forever craving more. My sister’s versatility is astounding, the way she is always open to my point of view, the way she always supports me no matter what she may be feeling that day. Yet, unlike the coconut cream, she never sugarcoats her advice to me just because I am younger. Instead, her words are more similar to the zesty, lip-puckering kick the pineapple juice gives to the smoothie. Crowning each sip of decadent coconut and vibrant pineapple is a hint of cinnamon and the rich buttery texture of papaya. The sweetness of the spice and the comfort of the fruit compliments the steps my sister took to create a smoothie filled with all of the ingredients of my family’s love.
To the cup she poured me, I didn’t need to say anything. I just kept drinking, savoring every sip as it touched my tongue and trickled down my esophagus until there was nothing left. I love it, Danielle. I love you.
Ingredients
- Coconut cream
- Pineapple Juice
- Frozen papaya
- Cinnamon
Directions
You choose the quantities and the order! I leave it in your hands.
About Leilani Glace
Leilani Glace is a member of the class of `25 at Phillips Academy.
