How to Rehydrate Goji Berries for Maximum Freshness

Goji berries, often dubbed as a superfood, are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These small, red berries are particularly rich in vitamin C, fibre, and iron, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.

While delicious and nutrient-dense in their dried form, rehydrating goji berries brings out an entirely different taste and texture, making them plump, juicy, and even more enjoyable!

Below are a few quick and simple steps to guide you through a simple process for rehydrating goji berries, both from a taste and nutrition point of view.

Why Rehydrate Goji Berries?

In their dried form, Goji berries are great for long-term storage, but when rehydrated, they regain their original juiciness and burst with flavour. Freshly rehydrated goji berries have a softer texture, making them perfect for adding to smoothies, salads, oatmeal, and even baked goods.

What You'll Need:

• A handful of dried goji berries
• Warm water or freshly brewed herbal tea
• A bowl

Step-by-Step Guide to Rehydrating Goji Berries:

Step 1: Prepare the Goji Berries

Start by placing your dried goji berries into a bowl. If you're planning to use them in a specific recipe, measure out the desired amount.

Step 2: Add Warm Water or Tea

Pour enough warm water to cover the berries. If you want to add an extra layer of flavour, consider using a herbal tea, such as chamomile or green tea. Ensure the tea has steeped for at least 10 minutes before adding it to the berries.

Step 3: Let Them Soak

Allow the berries to soak for 10-15 minutes. During this time, the goji berries absorb the water and plump up, returning to their juicy, freshly-picked state.

Step 4: Drain and Pat Dry

Once the berries have rehydrated, drain the excess water using a colander and gently pat them dry to remove any excess water using a towel or kitchen paper. Your goji berries are now ready to use! Remember, rehydrated goji berries can be stored in the fridge for only 5 days, so use them quickly.

Bonus Tip: Don't Waste the Water!

The water used to rehydrate goji berries contains nutrients, including antioxidants and vitamins, so don't throw it away! Use it to brew a refreshing tea or add it to your smoothies for an extra nutrient boost.

How to Use Rehydrated Goji Berries:

Once rehydrated and your goji berries look similar to when they were first harvested, there are endless ways to enjoy them, inspiring your culinary creativity:

• Smoothies: Add them to your morning smoothie for a pop of colour and flavour.
• Oatmeal: Stir them into your oatmeal for added texture and sweetness.
• Salads: Toss them into salads to balance savoury flavours with a hint of natural sweetness.
• Snacking: Enjoy them on their own for a quick, healthy snack!

Rehydrating goji berries is a quick and easy way to unlock their full flavour and nutritional benefits. Do it once, and you'll be a believer and won't want to stop enjoying this fresh superfood berry all year round!

Explore our blog and watch the video above for more health tips and delicious recipes!