Berry Good for You

     Though they're being touted as the newest superfruit to hit the market, aronia berries, originally called black chokeberries, have actually been around for a long time.  They're native to North America, but have been grown in Russia and Eastern Europe to make juices and wines since the early 20th Century.  They've recently gained popularity in the U.S., largely thanks to the efforts of Midwestern farmers, especially in Iowa.



          These heavy, dark purple berries, which taste tart and astringent, grow on shrubs that thrive in the climate of the Midwest.  They contain anthocyanins, which give them their deep hue.  They're also antioxidants, which means they protect the body from damage-causing free radicals.  A diet high in antioxidants may also help prevent some cancers and heart disease.

     
    
    
Aronia berries can be purchased frozen, in juices and juice concentrates
--even baby food.


You may also be able to find them fresh in the fall.



This article appeared in the June 2015 issue of Cuisine at home