Dani Spies

So you guys are probably familiar with raisins, cranberries, and dried cherries…but what about these guys??

Goji berries (aka wolfberries) aren’t “new” per se, but they sure do seem to be the “newest” rage these days.

Their flavor is kind of hard to describe, very earthy…kinda sweet like a raisin or dried cranberry, yet slightly tart.  I have eaten about a quarter of the bag sitting here trying to put my finger on the flavor…there is a little lemon, a little plum, some cherry, maybe even a bit of raspberry going on in there…I don’t know, they’re a tricky one to describe.  As for the size and texture, pretty much just like a raisin.

Goji’s have the reputation of being an antioxidant powerhouse (they’re antioxidant levels are 10x higher than blueberries)!  They’re also a complete protein AND they’re packed with vitamins and minerals.  Honestly, this is the major reason I am sure to work them into my diet, I'd be just as happy with some raisins or dried cherries, but I'm all about getting more bang for my buck!

Recent medical research has identified several powerful medicinal properties of these litle gems, including: anti-aging, anti-cancer, weight loss promotion, enhancing libido and fertility, and strengthening the immune system…not too shabby!

Now I don’t believe that any one food can be responsible for nutritional miracles…but hey, every little bit helps, so throwing these babies in the mix certainly can't hurt.

You can buy them at Whole Foods, and from what I've heard, Costco is selling them as well.  I have a feeling it won't be long until these little guys start popping up in grocery stores all around.  If you can't find them, there are a bazillion places to order them online...I would suggest a source but I don't really have a favorite, so my reccomendation would be a quick google search.

I usually add them to cereal, oatmeal, pancakes, muffins; salads…pretty much anything I would add dried fruit to.  I am going to start experimenting more, so keep you’re eyes peeled for some goji berry recipes around here!

Check out how these creative cooks worked some goji berries into their kitchens:

 Desert First: Bay Scallops with Goji Beries and Hazelnuts

 Coconut and Lime: Goji Berry Brownies