Goji berries in tea? We say yes!
Goji berries, often called red diamonds, are among the most highly valued fruits. They work well in all sorts of dishes, desserts and teas. What can you expect when you add goji berries to a tea infusion? What properties are associated with them, and why are they classed as superfoods? Let us find out!
What are goji berries, and what do we know about them?
Goji berries are the fruit of the Chinese wolfberry shrub. The plant comes from Central and East Asia, but it can also be grown in Poland's geographical region, although this is unfortunately not common. Today we tend to associate goji with China, Japan, Mongolia, Korea, Thailand and Taiwan, where the fruits have been known for more than 2,500 years.
The orange-red fruits are small, around 1–2 cm long. They are harvested in summer and often in autumn, then dried. An important subsequent stage is exposure to sunlight, intended to dry the skin while keeping the flesh soft. Although goji berries are usually eaten dried, they can also be eaten raw.
Goji berries: properties worth knowing
Goji berries are a source of valuable antioxidants, which neutralise free radicals associated with the development of cancer. Their action is also important for keeping skin in good condition through anti-ageing effects. The fruits contain vitamins C and E, B vitamins including B1, B2 and B6, and minerals such as iron, potassium, zinc and calcium.
It is worth returning to the antioxidant properties of Chinese wolfberry fruits. These are why goji berries are often called fruits of longevity or youth.
Another notable feature is their high fibre content, which helps regulate bowel function, supports digestion and can therefore be helpful during weight loss. The fruits are also associated with positive effects on eyesight and the functioning of the heart, kidneys, liver and lungs.
How can you enjoy goji berries?
The most common form sold is dried fruit. You can add it to muesli, porridge, smoothies, salads, soups, cakes and desserts. There is nothing to stop you eating it on its own either. Goji berries as a snack — why not?
As the title suggests, goji berries also make an addition to tea. Add a few to your favourite black, green, white or Pu-erh tea; they go especially well with the last of these. You need not stop at goji, either. Try other additions such as lemon, orange, honey or cornflower blossoms.
Thinking of making a drink from goji berries alone? You can do that too. Pour hot water over the fruit and enjoy the resulting infusion. Cheers!
In terms of flavour, goji berries are often compared to raisins, and less often to cranberries. Expect a tangy, slightly astringent taste.
When it comes to noticing the health-related effects associated with eating goji, regularity is important. Try incorporating the berries consistently in whichever form you prefer, and after one or two months assess whether the routine is bringing the results you expected.
Tea additions: what goes best with your brew?
Goji berries are a highly valued ingredient and a worthwhile addition to a morning or afternoon tea. If you enjoy experimenting with new flavours, we also suggest trying tea with quince or marigold!
Read more in Quince: an ideal addition to tea and Marigold tea: reasons to drink it.