Ground cherries, or Physalis species, consist of about ninety plants that grow in warm temperate regions of the world. Though some are cultivated, most have escaped cultivation and are now considered weeds by many. The most notable feature of this plant is the paper husk which partly or fully encloses the golden berries—the husk somewhat resembling a Chinese lantern. Being in the nightshade family, ground cherry is closely related to both the tomatillo and the tomato, and similarly straddles the line between a fruit and a vegetable, being somewhat tart. The fruit is somewhat firm like a tomato and similar in texture, tasting something like a strawberry or pineapple due to its acidity. It is important to research which kind you have because not all varieties have edible berries.
Nutritionally, ground cherries are rich in vitamins A, B3, and C and contain iron and calcium. Ground cherries also contain eighteen kinds of amino acids, including all eight essential amino acids. If eaten unripe, ground cherry can cause upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting, so make sure they are ripe. The plants drop the fruits before they are ripe, still inside the husk, so simply put these in a container on your counter until the outer pod changes from a yellow to an orangey color. They will keep for around three months if left in their husks/pods and stored in a mesh bag at about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The berries can be eaten raw or cooked and as a crossover plant it can be cooked as a somewhat sour berry in desserts, such as tarts, or to make tangy sauces and salsas. Ground cherries also make wonderful pies and preserves and can be used in any recipe that calls for tomatoes.
Ground cherries are not only edible, but have medicinal uses as well. For instance, ground cherries are rich in cryptoxanthin, which is converted into vitamin-A by the body; furthermore, it is an antioxidant that can aid in the prevention of free radical damage and stimulate the repair of oxidative damage to one’s DNA. The dried fruit can be used as a diuretic, antiseptic, sedative, and liver corrective. Ground cherries also contain physalins, which have been shown to have antibacterial activities in the body. A decoction of ground cherry can be effective in the treatment of abscesses, fevers, coughs, sore throats, and other cold-related symptoms.
So remember, try and eat one wild food every day! If you have any questions, comments, or ideas on wild food plant articles or recipes please e-mail [email protected].