The goji berry, also called the wolfberry, is a bright orange-red berry from a shrub that’s native to the Tibetan plateau in the regions of the Himalayas. Known for their sweet, slightly sour flavor and vibrant red hue, they’ve been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years.
In Asia, goji berries have been eaten for generations. Goji berries are packed with antioxidants and is considered a super food. Some even claim that the goji berry is a fountain of youth.
Goji Berries Are Highly Nutritious
They’re a great source of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. Just 5 tablespoons (28 grams) of dried goji berries contain:
- Calories: 98
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fat: 0.1 grams
- Carbs: 21.6 grams
- Fiber: 3.6 grams
- Sugar: 21.8 grams
- Iron: 11% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin A: 501% of the DV
- Vitamin C: 15% of the DV
They’re also a good source of protein and antioxidants.
Health Benefits of Goji Berries
Goji berries are rich in nutrients. Some studies found possible health benefits that include:
- General well-being and calmness
- Improved athletic performance
- Improved sleep
- Weight loss
- Stronger immune system
- Elevated antioxidant levels
Cooking with Goji Berry
Pairing goji berry with edible bird’s nest creates one of the most unique and nutritious dish in Asian cuisine. Edible bird’s nest is a rare and expensive delicacy that has been eaten for hundreds of years. It is revered due to the high level of nutrients. When cooked, edible bird’s nest becomes gelatinous with a very delicate taste. Therefore, it is recommended to cook the birds nest with other ingredients to enhance the flavor.
Edible Bird’s Nest with Goji Berries & Jujube
- 1 piece of edible bird’s nest
- 2 cups filtered water
- 2-3 pieces of dried jujube
- 6 pieces of dried goji berry
Rock sugar to taste – suggested ½ Tbsp to start
Another delicious and nutritious recipe is combining the goji berry, jujube, ginseng and pork ribs. Very easy to make but has a luxurious taste and presentation.
- 1 lb of baby back pork ribs
- 1 medium sized dried ginseng root
- 1 handful of goji berry
- 3-4 dried jujube
- 2 cups filtered water
- ½ Tbsp rock sugar, ½ Tsp sea salt
If you don’t have time to cook, there are other easy ways to get goji berries into your diet:
- Eat them raw.
- Use them in cooking.
- Drink goji fruit juice.
- Take a goji supplement.
- Use them in an herbal tea.
Warning: Goji berries may interact with certain medications and/or trigger an allergic reaction in some people. Additional studies should evaluate whether these fruits are safe during pregnancy.
Disclaimer: The contents of this article is for educational purposes only. Before using or ingesting ANY herbs, plants, or foods for medicinal purposes or otherwise, please consult a physician, medical herbalist or other suitable professional for advice.