ANOTHER AUSTRALIAN NATIVE SUPERFOOD - THE RIBERRY
Riberry (Syzygium luehmannii) are native to the tropical areas of Queensland and NSW. They are often found in other parts of Australia dropping wastefully to the ground in the suburbs. Its best not to pick them from the ground and wash them thoroughly when picking from trees due to birds and possums roaming around and eating the fruits.
Riberries were and still are used by Indigenous people as food and medicine.
Riberries are a nutrient rich source of folate, calcium and the antioxidant Anthocyanin which can help to prevent well known diseases like Alzheimer's, cardiovascular disease, auto-immune diseases, cancer and diabetes. They also contain zinc, potassium, magnesium, sodium and phosphorus. Including these native foods in your diet can provide you with a source of these important nutrients, as part of a healthy balanced whole-foods diet.
The fruit can be eaten straight from the tree or made into jams, confit, sauces, marinades. I like them added to breakfast bowls, Buddah bowls, raw food desserts, trail mixes and I make a brew to flavour water with ice and chopped fruit.
Use about 5-10 NATIF dried Riberries or Lillipillis per person. Add to sweet and savoury dishes.
Enjoy the Super-fruits of Australia!
