Should Goji Berries Be Washed Before Soaking?
Among health foods, Goji berries are highly favored for their rich nutritional value and convenient consumption method. However, many people have misconceptions when handling Goji berries, and incorrect washing and cooking methods can lead to the loss of nutrients. This article will use scientific methods to explain the correct handling of Goji berries.
Key Steps in Washing Goji Berries
The Necessity of Double Purification
The surface of Goji berries has wrinkles that can harbor dust, microbes, and agricultural residue. Experimental data shows that the total number of colonies on unwashed Goji berries can reach 1200 CFU/g, which can be reduced by 98% after correct washing. It is recommended to use a two-stage process of pre-washing with warm water and deep purification, which can protect the skin integrity and thoroughly remove impurities.
Scientific Washing Method
1. Salt Purification Method: Add 3% salt to 40°C warm water, soak for 8 minutes to effectively kill bacteria and decompose fat-soluble agricultural residue. 2. Starch Adsorption Method: Add 5g of corn starch to cold water to remove surface impurities through physical adsorption. 3. Running Water Rinse: Finally, rinse with pure water for 20 seconds to remove residual cleaning agents.
Key Parameters for Cooking Goji Berries
Pre-treatment Time Control
Soaking time before cooking should be controlled between 5-8 minutes, and water temperature should not exceed 60°C. Over-soaking can lead to the loss of water-soluble Vitamin B group, and research shows that soaking for more than 15 minutes can cause a 23% loss of betaine content.
Precise Cooking Method
1. Single-time Cooking: Simmer over low heat for 25-30 minutes, maintaining water temperature at 85-90°C. 2. Complementary Cooking: Add to other ingredients in the last 10 minutes of cooking. 3. Re-cooking Technique: Cooked Goji berries can be reused twice, each time adding sufficient water and reducing cooking time by 5 minutes.
Correctly mastering the methods of washing and cooking Goji berries can increase the utilization rate of nutrients by over 40%. It is recommended to consume 15-20g per day, and for people with special constitutions, they can combine Goji berries with ingredients like chrysanthemum to balance the warming properties. Through scientific processing methods, the health benefits of Goji berries can be maximized.