Are you trying to figure out exactly what are kiwi berries? Is it a kiwi? Is it a berry? Are you confused yet?

Kiwi berry is a miniature, smooth-skinned cousin of the kiwi that’s been gaining popularity. This delightful little fruit is a concentrated package of flavor and nutrition, perfect for a quick, healthy snack. If you haven’t tried them yet, you’re missing out on one of nature’s cutest and tastiest treats!

What Are Kiwi Berries?

Let us explain…

Kiwi berries are bite-sized fruits that look like a fusion of a grape and a tiny, smooth-skinned kiwifruit. They are also often referred to as hardy kiwis. Unlike the large, brown, fuzzy kiwifruit you find year-round, kiwi berries have thin, smooth, edible green skin. And they are about the size of a large grape.

Once you slice one open, the resemblance is clear. It has the same bright green flesh, tiny black seeds, and star-like pattern. Their flavor is similar to a regular kiwi, but often sweeter, tangier, and much juicier.

Native to regions in East Asia like China, Korea, and Russian Siberia, they are a surprisingly hardy perennial vine that can survive much colder temperatures than regular kiwifruit. This makes them suitable for growing in colder climates, including parts of the United States and Europe. They are also a nutritional powerhouse, rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, fiber, and antioxidants.

Related: How to Peel a Kiwi

How Do You Eat Kiwi Berries?

The best part about kiwi berries is their simplicity! Forget the peeler—since the skin is smooth and edible, preparation is minimal.

1. Wash Them: Give them a quick rinse under cold water.
2. Pop and Go: Simply pop the entire berry into your mouth and enjoy the burst of sweet-tart flavor. They’re an ideal fuss-free snack.

A word on ripeness: Kiwi berries are often picked firm and will ripen off the vine at room temperature. They are ready to eat when the skin turns a deeper, dark green, may start to wrinkle slightly, and gently yields to a light touch—similar to checking a peach or avocado for ripeness. The softer they are, the sweeter and less acidic they will taste.

How To Store Kiwi Berries

Kiwi berries are delicate and have a short shelf life compared to many other fruits. Proper storage is key to enjoying them at their peak.

Ripening: If your kiwi berries are still hard, leave them at room temperature in a bowl or a paper bag (to speed up the process) for a day or two until they soften slightly.

Refrigeration: Once they are ripe and soft to the touch, transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the coldest part of your refrigerator. They will keep for about one to two weeks, but it’s best to enjoy them within a week for the freshest flavor.

Freezing: For longer storage, kiwi berries freeze beautifully! Wash and dry them, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen kiwi berries are excellent for smoothies or baked goods.

More Ways to Enjoy Kiwi Berries

While simply eating them straight out of the container is undeniably the best way to enjoy their intense flavor, their small size and sweet-tart profile make them incredibly versatile in the kitchen.

Breakfast Boost: Slice them in half and toss them into your morning oatmeal, yogurt parfait, or on top of pancakes and waffles.

Refreshing Beverages: Muddle them into cocktails, use them as a vibrant garnish for lemonade or iced tea, or blend a handful into your favorite smoothie for a vitamin C kick.

Salads and Sides: Their tangy flavor works wonderfully in savory dishes. Try adding whole or halved kiwi berries to any salad, a gourmet cheese and charcuterie board, or even a fresh fruit salsa.

Desserts: Use them as a topping for tarts, pavlovas, brownies or ice cream. You can also make a bright, flavorful kiwi berry jam or preserve.

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