Kousa Dogwood berries

As the Portland Fruit Tree Project continues to explore and celebrate the diverse bounty of urban harvesting, it's time to shine a spotlight on a lesser-known treasure: Kousa dogwood berries. Often admired for their ornamental beauty, these small, spiky fruits are more than just a pretty face—they’re also a delicious and versatile ingredient.

What Are Kousa Dogwood Berries?

Kousa dogwood berries come from the Kousa dogwood tree, native to East Asia but commonly found in the Pacific Northwest. The berries are unique in appearance, with a rough, red exterior that resembles a miniature lychee. Inside, they boast a soft, custard-like flesh with a flavor that is sweet and mildly tropical, often compared to a mix of mango and melon.

How to Harvest and Prepare Kousa Dogwood Berries

Harvesting Kousa dogwood berries is simple—they're ripe when they turn a vibrant red and fall easily into your hand. The best time to collect them is in late summer to early fall.

To prepare the berries, remove the outer skin, which is edible but can be a bit tough and gritty. The inner flesh can be scooped out with a spoon or simply eaten as is. The seeds, though edible, are typically discarded due to their texture.

While these berries can be eaten fresh, their true potential shines when incorporated into recipes.

Chef’s Tip: Kousa Dogwood Berry Sauce

Chef Cameron Dunlap of the Portland restaurant Morchella is a fan of using Kousa dogwood berries in sauces. He recommends simmering the berries with a bit of sugar and a splash of lemon juice to create a vibrant, tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory dishes.

Here's a simple recipe to try at home:

Kousa Dogwood Berry Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Kousa dogwood berries, peeled and deseeded

• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the Kousa dogwood berries, sugar, lemon juice, and water.

2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

3. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the berries break down and the mixture thickens into a sauce-like consistency.

4. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.

5. Remove from heat and let cool. The sauce can be served warm or chilled.

This sauce is incredibly versatile…. Drizzle it over pancakes or waffles, swirl it into yogurt, or use it as a topping for ice cream. For a savory twist, try serving it alongside grilled meats, or use it as a glaze for roasted vegetables. The natural sweetness and slight tartness of the berries create a beautifully balanced flavor that enhances a wide range of dishes.

A New Favorite in Your Kitchen

Whether you're an adventurous cook or simply curious about new flavors, Kousa dogwood berries are worth exploring. Their unique taste and culinary flexibility make them an exciting addition to your kitchen repertoire. Happy cooking!

Do you have extra and need help?

1. Talk to your neighbors! It’s a great way to meet them and you can share your abundance hyper locally!

2. Donate it through Portland Fruit Tree Project’s Fruit Fridge! Harvest and drop off at your convenience and we’ll get it all used up!

3. Can’t harvest it? Register for us to come harvest for you!
   
   

Looking to add berries or other plants to your landscape?

Heads up from our friends and sponsors, Portland Nursery! Great sale coming up from Aug. 29-9/18!

• All Trees 25% off – includes Fruit trees, Japanese Maples, Native trees, and anything stocked in the Tree section. Does not include conifers

• Small Fruits 25% off – includes anything stocked in the Small Fruit section – doesn’t include native fruits

Take the next step with Portland Fruit Tree Project!

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