An expensive but healthy food

These berries are thought to be one of the one of the healthiest natural foods. There are many "stories" about the amazing benefits of these berries many of which may be true but a few verifiable facts about them (in dried form) follow:

1) High protein (about 12%) and are a complete protein. This is good for anybody but particularly noteworthy to vegans who choose not to get their protein from meats.

2) Decent fiber content (about 10%)

3) 18 (!!) amino acids

4) Like most sweet fruits high in carbs and calories. 100 grams give you about 350-380 calories; roughly 3/4 from carbs and 1/4 from fat.

5) 6 vitamins 8 amino acids 11+ minerals (more in trace amounts)

6) Carotenoids unsaturated fatty acids (this is a good thing) phytosterols (help lower cholesterol) and other healthy (or theoretically healthy but not particularly well researched) phytochemicals.



Enough with the technical jargon. These berries are great in cereal smoothies (once hydrated) and tea. For tea try this:

Put water a small number of berries (6-15ish) and a teabag in your cup microwave for about a minute per teacup (time varies) drop a small amount in your favorite tea along with the teabag and let the berries and tea steep for about 3 minutes.

This adds a subtle character to green tea (plus an unusual tasty snack to do with a few of the sips). The flavor seems to blend well with chai and jasmine too. This may work differently for those who use creamer.



I recommend that you try a bag keeping in mind that you may need to soak the berries in water/tea/whatever in order to make them soft and see what you think. I have found they make a great addition to my usual cereal-only breakfast because they give me a much-needed protein boost.

If you like them quite a lot you may want to take the time to look for a supply in a nearby Asian foods store. I have heard they can be purchased at a lower cost in bulk.

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