Goji Berries

Posted on 31. Dec, 2009 by grace in Ingredients

Goji Berries

Goji berries are small, red berries that are native to the Tibetan and Mongolian Himalayas. These days, there are over 40 varieties of Asian goji berries, and some are even grown right here in the U.S., in the Rocky Mountains. These nutritious berries are generally available dried, and has been used as an ingredient in soups among Asian for centuries. Recent scientific studies have shown that Goji berries actually have a host of exceptional nutritious properties, including 19 amino acids (six times more than Bee Pollen!), Vitamins B1, B2, B6, C and E, 15 times more nutritional iron than spinach, 500 times more Vitamin C than oranges, has more beta carotene than carrots, and more antioxidant power than any other known food source. An added bonus? This wonder food is actually tasty!

Goji berries have become a popular item in numerous ready-to-eat or drink forms. The juice is now available from Whole Foods Market, and even Costco is carrying a Cashew and Gojiberries snack. You can also purchase dried goji berries from almost every Asian market. For an extra health boost, try throwing a handful of Goji into chicken soup–another super-food with medicinal benefits.