Golden berries belong to the nightshade family and are closely related to the tomatillo. You’ll recognize them by the delicate, slightly sticky paper husks that surround each fruit; these husks should be removed before eating. Native to the Andes in South America, golden berries are now cultivated in temperate regions, with a significant crop grown in Mexico.
Other Names for Golden Berries
These fruits are known by many names, including husk berries, husk cherry, poha berry, Inca blueberries, Peruvian cherries, groundcherries, Aztec berries, Cape gooseberries, harankash and more. Their variety of common names reflects the fruit’s popularity across regions.
What Do Golden Berries Taste Like?
Golden berries have a tropical flavor profile that ranges from tart to sweet. Many people compare their taste to a blend of tomato, mango and pineapple.
When Are Golden Berries Available?
While you can find golden berries year-round in some markets, their peak season is typically from mid-spring through late summer.
How Do You Know When Golden Berries are Ripe?
Ripe golden berries show no green coloring, feel firm with a slight give, and have a rich golden-yellow hue. Each berry is surrounded by a dried paper husk that you should peel away before eating. They’re about the size of small tomatoes.
Where Can You Find Golden Berries?
Look for golden berries at farmers’ markets, specialty produce sections in grocery stores, and from online sellers that carry exotic or seasonal fruit.
How Do You Eat Golden Berries?
Golden berries can be enjoyed fresh or dried. If fresh, remove the husks before eating. They may have a slightly sticky sap on the surface; this is harmless and not unpleasant, but you can rinse the fruit if you prefer.
Use them as a snack on their own, toss them into fruit or green salads, blend them into smoothies, or incorporate them into relishes, chutneys, jams and jellies. They also make a colorful, flavorful addition to granola, yogurt, ice cream or a grazing board.
What Are Golden Berries? Everything you need to know about buying, storing, and eating this delicious, juicy fruit.
Avoid eating unripe golden berries, as they contain solanine, a natural compound that can cause stomach upset if consumed in large amounts.
Are Golden Berries Nutritious?
Golden berries are nutritious: they provide dietary fiber, vitamins A, C and K, niacin, and a range of antioxidants that support overall health.
How Do You Store Golden Berries?
Keep golden berries refrigerated in their husks and in the original packaging when possible. Properly stored, they typically last up to a week.
