Lingonberries – the new super berry?

Lingonberries – the new super berry?

There’s a new berry on the superfood scene – it’s small, its’ red and it packs an impressive nutrient punch. Lingonberries are set to be big news this year, so bone up on the benefits with our speedy guide.

What are they?
Lingonberries – also called cowberries, rock cranberries and whimberries – are small, red berries from Scandinavia. They are a wild fruit and very popular in Scandinavia, they look a lot like cranberries and can be used and cooked in a similar way. They’re quite a tart fruit and are the perfect jam or jelly-making ingredient – teaming well with gamey meats.

Why the big fuss?
Lingonberries are packed with vitamin C and contain anthocyanin – a potent antioxidant – and have traditionally been used by Scandinavians and Canadians as a cold remedy. But the big news is that they may aid weight loss. A study at Lund University, Sweden, found that eating lingonberries could limit weight gain and help to keep body fat, cholesterol and blood sugar in check. However it’s worth keeping in mind that, as of yet, no human trials have been conducted.

What can you do with them?
Lingonberries can be used in much the same way as cranberries and blueberries. Our favourite option is to use them as a tasty topper for breakfasts such as porridge, chia blends (the more superfoods the better, right?) and yoghurt. In Scandinavia they’re also a popular topping for pancakes – you can use the fresh berries themselves or make them into a jam. Make up some healthy pancakes, then top with a dollop of yoghurt and a dollop of lingonberry jam. Lingonberries can also be used in savoury dishes as a chutney/jam with gamey meats (as suggested above) or mixed into meatball recipes – a traditional Scandinavian option. It’s also possible to buy lingonberry concentrate and juice, but this is pretty hard to come by.