Cape Gooseberry

Cape Gooseberry

The Cape gooseberry grows on an erect, somewhat vining plant approximately one meter tall. It has purplish spreading branches and slightly velvety leaves, similar to those on a tomatillo. The Cape gooseberry is wrapped in a thin, straw-colored, parchment-like husk. Inside, the berries are an orange-yellow hue and have a smooth, almost waxy sheen. Their inner juicy pulp contains numerous very small yellowish seeds which are entirely edible and offer a crunchy texture. The flavor of the Cape gooseberries is very tart, and reminiscent of a cherry tomato crossed with pineapple, mango and Meyer lemon. Cape gooseberries are available year-round, with peak season in the late summer and fall. The Cape gooseberry is also commonly referred to as, Chinese Lantern, Goldenberry, Husk Cherry and Peruvian Ground Cherry. Cape gooseberries are high in vitamins A and C, thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin. The ripe fruits also have a concentration of beta-carotene, calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, bioflavonoids, protein, and fiber.