Goji berries are extremely popular in Western countries as they are healthy and actually help prevent serious illnesses as it has an abundance of vitamin C and vitamin A. For this reason, it helps improve immunity and enhances well-being. In addition, it has a distinct flavor that reminds users of sour cherries and cranberries. It is widely used in savory and sweet recipes, but if you cannot find these berries anywhere, we have various substitutes that you can try!
Substitutes For Goji Berries
- Dried Cranberries
The dried cranberries are rich in antioxidants and are loaded with protein and vitamin A. In addition, the dried cranberries have a similar taste as goji berries, and the appearance is similar as well. These cranberries have a red appearance, and since the texture is similar, you can easily add them to the recipe. You can use the 1:1 substitution ratio. In addition, dried cranberries are easier to find in grocery stores.
- Blackberries
Blackberries are similar to goji berries when it comes down to the nutritional profile as it has a higher vitamin C content. In addition, blackberries are rich in fiber and antioxidants. Also, it doesn’t have much protein, and the texture is different from goji berries, which might change your dish’s appearance. You can opt for a 1:1 ratio for substituting these berries. Keep in mind that blackberries are used in their fresh form, which means they will enhance the sweetness and moisture in the recipe.
- Raspberries
Raspberries are loaded with antioxidants and have a higher vitamin C and fiber percentage. Raspberries are red, which means their appearance is similar to goji berries. In addition, these berries are only available in fresh form, so you cannot substitute them for dried goji berries. For this reason, it’s recommended that you adjust the water level in the recipe to ensure fresh raspberries don’t thin the texture. Also, the raspberries are sweeter as compared to goji berries, which means you’ve to adjust the sweetness.
- Mulberry
Mulberry is available in black, white, and red forms. If you are in the US, it will be easier to find red mulberry, which can be used as a substitute for goji berries. These berries have a plump and juicy texture with a sweet and tarty flavor. In simpler words, the sweetness level is extremely balanced in mulberries, which means it won’t alter the recipe’s flavor.
- Boysenberries
Boysenberries are a hybrid between blackberries and raspberries, which results in fat and plump fruit. It has a tartier flavor as compared to goji berries, but you can always add more sugar if you are making desserts. However, it’s not easy to find boysenberries in the grocery stores because of the bleeding and delicate texture, so it’s recommended that you visit the farmer’s market to purchase fresh berries.
- Dewberries
Dewberries are widely confused with blackberries since they have a similar appearance and flavor. For this reason, dewberries can be used to replace goji berries in pies, jam, and jelly. The only downside of using dewberries is that they aren’t easily available in the supermarkets.
- Strawberries
If you want to replicate the tart and sweet flavor notes of goji berries and want something red (the goji berries are red), you can opt for strawberries. Strawberries are the most affordable and easy-to-find berries. It has a delicious flavor but keep in mind that strawberries are juicy, which results in a thin texture in the recipe. Strawberries can replace goji berries in pastries, pie filling, smoothies, and jams. Also, if you are unable to find fresh strawberries, they are also available in frozen form.
- Loganberries
Loganberries are known for their deep red appearance with the size and feel of goji berries. When it comes down to the flavor, these berries have the flavor profile of blackberry and raspberry (it’s a mix). In simpler words, they are delicious with mild sourness. It can be used as a goji berries alternative in muffins and jams.
The Bottom Line
If goji berries aren’t in season or you cannot find them in the market for any reason, you can try the berries mentioned in this article. All of them are easy to find but always add them in moderation!