Cloudberry: Nature's antioxidant-rich treasure from the north

These small, unassuming, yellow-orange "clouds" have properties many fruits could envy. We are talking about cloudberries. They are believed to be a relic of the Ice Age. Also known as Nordic raspberries, they have been used in natural medicine for years, have great beauty benefits, and taste excellent. What makes them different from the raspberries we know well, and can you buy them?

Cloudberry, also known as "cloudberry" because it looks like little clouds, is a plant from the rose family. It grows mainly in the colder regions of the northern hemisphere, such as Scandinavia, Canada, and Alaska. In Canada, it is rare and strictly protected. However, you can buy its seedlings and grow them in your garden.

Cloudberry is, above all, a wealth of vitamins. It has lots of vitamins A, B, C, and PP and minerals such as potassium, iron, and phosphorus. Additionally, cloudberry is a source of antioxidants, including ellagic acid, which has antioxidant properties and can help protect cells from damage. Therefore, this berry is appreciated as an antidote to the rapid aging of the body. It has rejuvenating solid properties due to its antioxidants. The vitamins boost immunity. Its anti-inflammatory action helps in the fight against chronic diseases.

Scandinavians are big fans of these fruits. Raw, they have a sweet and sour taste, more refreshing than dessert-like. Cloudberries are stored excellently, unlike our raspberries. This is because they contain benzoic acid, which is a natural preservative. After picking, they can last in a cool place for up to 12 weeks. There is plenty of time to enjoy them and to make preserves.

In Scandinavia, cloudberry is called "gold of the north" and is picked by whole families as part of weekend outdoor activities. It is still considered a national treasure in Finland, and this fruit appears on the €2 coin.

Scandinavians are masters at processing these original fruits. They make jams and juices, add them to cakes and other desserts, and even dry them. In Finland, these berries are served warm with local cheese and cream, and in Norway, they make a traditional dessert called "Multekrem." This delicious blend of berries and whipped sweet cream is served with crispy cookies. Cloudberry is known for its famous spirits, liqueurs, and stronger beverages.

In Canada, it won't be easy to try fresh cloudberries. However, preserves are available - jams, jellies, teas, and cloudberry liqueurs. It is worth paying attention to them in stores.