The Jewel Of The North
Chandan Singh
| 11-10-2023
· Food Team
Arctic Golden Fruit, also known as Cloudberries, are wild fruits that grow in the northern regions, particularly in swamps and tundra areas of northern Europe, and Canada.
In general, when the average daily temperature drops below 10°C, most plants cease their growth, and when the temperature reaches -2°C, many plants die within 48 hours.
However, nature always surprises us with its miracles. In the alpine regions near the Arctic Circle, there exists a berry that can bear sweet and sour fruits even at temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees. The locals refer to it as the "Arctic Golden Fruit," and it is none other than the Cloudberry.
Cloudberry fruits are small and round, slightly larger than raspberries. Their colors range from light orange to yellow, sometimes displaying a reddish hue. The fruit's surface is covered with numerous small protrusions, giving it a velvety appearance.
They possess a sweet and sour taste with subtle hints of strawberry and citrus flavors. Cloudberry is an abundant source of vitamin C, with a content three times higher than that of oranges. A 75-gram golden berry can fulfill a person's daily vitamin C requirements.
Due to its remarkably high vitamin C content, Cloudberry has been consumed by Nordic sailors and the Inuit community for centuries to prevent scurvy.
The Vikings, renowned seafarers of the past, often faced the challenge of acquiring adequate vitamin C during their prolonged voyages. Scurvy, a deadly disease, frequently afflicted them.
This is also one of the primary reasons why pirates were often depicted as pale. To combat scurvy, Cloudberry served as their natural source of vitamin C.
Cloudberry seed oil is particularly rich in vitamin E. Among all wild berries, cloudberries contain the highest fiber content. They are also abundant in antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols.
These antioxidants play a vital role in maintaining overall health, strengthening the immune system, and combating damage caused by free radicals.
In Finland, warmed berry bread cheese is a popular delicacy, while cloudberry jam is used to make exquisite ice cream, pancakes, and waffles in Sweden.
In Norway, cloudberry mousse is a cherished ingredient in homemade ice cream desserts and cakes, often accompanied by marzipan. In Canada, cloudberries are also used to make jam.
Due to the short picking season, which typically spans from late summer to early autumn, Arctic golden fruits are considered rare and special.
The natural growth of cloudberries in the wild contributes to their high price, which remains elevated throughout the year, often reaching tens of euros per kilogram, equivalent to over 200 yuan.
Overall, the Arctic Golden Fruit stands out as a unique fruit with a delightful taste and significant nutritional value. It is highly cherished in northern regions and extensively utilized in food preparation and culinary endeavors.