Goji Berry

What Is Goji Berry?

Goji berry (Lycium barbarum) is a small, red-orange colored fruit native to Central and East Asia; also known in Turkish as “wolfberry.” It's mostly sold dried, similar to raisins.

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

Nutritional Value of Goji Berry

100 grams of dried goji contains about 349 kcal of energy, 14 g of protein, and 13 g of fiber; it also stands out for iron and vitamin A precursor carotenoids. Being a dried fruit, it's calorie-dense.

What Are the Benefits of Goji Berry?

With its fiber, iron, and plant-based antioxidant compound content, goji berry can be considered part of a balanced diet; since it's dried and calorie-dense, using it in small amounts is recommended.

This information is general; goji berry is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Those on regular medication should consult their doctor before adding a new food to their routine.

How Is Goji Berry Selected?

Good dried goji is a product with a vivid red-orange color, pliable texture (not hardened like a stone), and a clean smell. Darkened, clumped, or damp samples are not preferred.

• Color should be vivid red-orange
• Grains should be pliable, not hardened like a stone
• Clumping and dampness are signs of staleness

How Is Goji Berry Stored?

Dried goji keeps for a long time in a sealed jar in a dry, cool place; it should be protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Storing it in the fridge extends its shelf life.

Using Goji Berry in the Kitchen

Goji berry is added to granola, muesli, oatmeal, and smoothie bowls, and to cakes and cookies; softened in warm water, it's also added to soups, rice dishes, and teas. It can be used anywhere raisins are used.

How Is Goji Berry Softened?

A handful of goji is soaked in warm water or tea for 10–15 minutes; the softened grains are added to recipes directly or after draining.

Is Goji Berry Eaten Raw?

Yes; dried goji can be eaten directly as a snack or added raw to recipes.

What Recipes Is Goji Berry Used In?

Granola, smoothie bowl, energy balls, cake, and herbal teas are the best-known uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are goji berry and wolfberry the same?

Yes; wolfberry is one of the Turkish names for goji berry, both refer to the same fruit.

Is goji berry used like raisins?

Largely yes; it can be used similarly in granola, cakes, and mixes where raisins are used, though its taste is a bit tangier.

How much goji berry can be consumed daily?

Being a dried and calorie-dense fruit, it's mostly consumed in about a handful's amount as a snack or addition.

What does goji berry taste like?

It has a mildly sweet and tangy taste; it gives a flavor between dried cranberry and raisin.