Goji Berry

What Is Goji Berry?

Goji berry (Lycium barbarum) is a small, red-orange fruit native to Central and East Asia; it is also known as wolfberry. It is mostly sold dried, like raisins.

It has a mildly sweet, tangy flavor and a texture somewhere between a raisin and a dried cranberry. In recent years, it has become a popular addition to granola, smoothies, and baked goods.

Nutritional Values of Goji Berry

One hundred grams of dried goji berries contain about 349 kcal of energy, 14 g of protein, and 13 g of fiber; they are also notable for their iron and carotenoids, which are precursors to vitamin A. As a dried fruit, they are energy-dense.

What Are the Benefits of Goji Berry?

With its fiber, iron, and plant-based antioxidant compounds, goji berry can be part of a balanced diet; because it is dried and calorie-dense, it is recommended to use a small amount.

This information is general; goji berry is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment. People who take medication regularly should consult their healthcare professional before adding a new food to their routine.

How to Choose Goji Berry

Good dried goji berries are bright red-orange, pliable (not rock-hard), and have a clean aroma. Avoid berries that are darkened, clumped, or damp.

• They should be a bright red-orange color
• The berries should be pliable, not rock-hard
• Clumping and dampness are signs of staleness

How to Store Goji Berry

Dried goji berries keep for a long time in a sealed jar in a cool, dry place; protect them from moisture and direct sunlight. Refrigerating them extends their shelf life.

Using Goji Berry in the Kitchen

Goji berries are added to granola, muesli, oatmeal, smoothie bowls, cakes, and cookies; after softening them in warm water, they can also be added to soups, rice dishes, and tea. They can be used in most places where raisins are used.

How to Soften Goji Berries

Soak a handful of goji berries in warm water or tea for 10–15 minutes; add the softened berries to recipes as is or after draining.

Can Goji Berries Be Eaten Raw?

Yes; dried goji berries can be eaten directly as a snack or added to recipes without soaking.

What Recipes Use Goji Berry?

Granola, smoothie bowls, energy bites, cakes, and herbal teas are among the best-known uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are goji berry and wolfberry the same?

Yes; “kurt üzümü” (wolfberry) is one of the Turkish names for goji berry; they are two names for the same fruit.

Can goji berries be used like raisins?

For the most part, yes; they can be used similarly in granola, cakes, and mixes that call for raisins, with a slightly more tangy flavor.

How much goji berry should you eat per day?

Because it is a dried, calorie-dense fruit, it is usually eaten in about a handful-sized amount, as a snack or addition to other foods.

What do goji berries taste like?

They have a mildly sweet, tangy flavor, somewhere between dried cranberries and raisins.