Goji berries, sometimes called Wolfberries, are deep red, jelly bean shaped berries. They’re almost always sold in the dried form, as they are very fragile when ripe and must be handled carefully. Considered a “superfruit,” this berry is native to China and has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
This unassuming berry’s attributes include being loaded with vitamin C, low in calorie, fat-free and high in fiber. It’s sky high in antioxidants and beta-carotene, which promotes healthy skin, hair and nails. These chewy little bites are alleged to boost the immune system and brain activity, protect against heart disease and cancer and improve life expectancy. That’s some power, huh?
But what’s most important to us is the Goji flavor and texture, which is unlike almost anything else we’re working with right now. The flavor is sweet and earthy, like a dried tomato, making it a perfect addition to both sweet and savory combinations. There’s also a mineral element to the flavor -- it’s almost like the terroir you experience when tasting a Sauvignon Blanc.
The texture of the dried Goji berry gives it a great chew, like a raisin would, but it’s deeper. We love to chop Goji berries finely and add them to a coconut, dates, dried blueberries, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, roasted nuts and cacao mixture that’s bound with coconut oil. The result is a sweet and chewy bite with soul that’s loaded with antioxidants. We call these health truffles "Power Balls" and we have been serving them up to top executives at lunch meetings across Los Angeles. It's brain and beauty food that has been delighting our clients and their guests.
Rehydrating Goji berries allows their unique flavor to be added to sauces, spreads, baked goods and even pancakes. Combine Goji berries with shallots, white wine and thyme, using olive oil as the emulsifier for a perfectly savory and complex sauce to be served over grilled fresh anchovies or chicken. Make a puree of the rehydrated Goji berries and then mix it up with flavors like soy or miso to create a umami-rich spread. Add honey and water to use as a glaze on roasted vegetables (carrots are our favorites) chicken and even pork. And because these berries are a superfruit, you will ultimately have perfect hair and skin. You Goji!
