Small Red Power Berry
Title shot: Illustration Thomé, ca. 1903
This article was first published in the colore, ed. 18 #himbeerrot
The German name for "raspberry" (Himbeere) comes from the Old Norse and Anglo-Saxon word of "hind", meaning a female deer, essentially meaning "berries of the hind". The English etymology differs somewhat, although the plant remains the same.
The raspberry is a species of plant related to roses. The thorned raspberry can grow up to two meters high and blooms between May and August. Summer is raspberry season, when the delicious fruit can be harvested; depending on the variety, they continue to bear fruit right into fall.
Originally the power berry originates from South Eastern Europe where it already served as a source of vitamins to our stone age ancestors. In ancient times, it was not only popular as a quick snack, but also as an effective remedy. Nowadays the raspberry is very common in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Even though raspberries are bursting with sugar, they contain plenty of water and are thus low in calories. Thanks to their high vitamin B and C content, they strengthen our metabolism and help build up connective tissue. The fruit also contains large quantities of phosphor and calcium to foster healthy bones and teeth.
It goes without saying that raspberries unleash their full taste when eaten raw, but will ultimately also go well in cakes, desserts or yogurts. Combine them with fresh salad and a delicious balsamic vinegar dressing to make sure the fruit will also create a special taste experience in your main meal – these small, red power berries are true all-rounders!
By the way: Botanically speaking, the raspberry is not a true berry but actually an aggregate stone fruit. This is because it differs from currants or blueberries, being made up of multiple stone fruits, and it does not have the skin typical of berries that encloses the seeds.
