Ugni

Ugni molinae

Ugni, scientifically known as Ugni molinae, is a small, evergreen shrub native to the Valdivian forests of Chile and Argentina. This delightful fruit, also known as Chilean guava or murtilla, captivates with its aromatic, sweet-tart flavor and juicy, tender flesh. The Ugni fruit is small, round, and ranges in color from deep purple to dark blue when ripe. Its unique taste, reminiscent of a blend between guava and blueberry, makes it a prized ingredient in various culinary applications. Ugni fruits are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, offering a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. The Ugni plant itself is an attractive addition to gardens, boasting glossy green leaves and delicate white flowers that precede the fruit. This versatile fruit can be enjoyed fresh, used in desserts, jams, or even infused in beverages for a burst of flavor and health benefits.

Calories

Fiber

67%

Vitamin C

Photo Gallery

Explore Ugni in stunning detail

Ugni - Main View

Nutrition Facts

Calories

per 100g

Carbs

12g

per 100g

Protein

per 100g

Fiber

per 100g

Sugar

per 100g

Fat

0.5g

per 100g

💊Vitamins

Per 100g

Vitamin C

67% DV

40mg

Boosts immune function and acts as a powerful antioxidant.

Vitamin A

1% DV

50IU

Supports vision health and immune function.

⚡Minerals

Per 100g

Potassium

4% DV

150mg

Helps maintain normal blood pressure and heart function.

🛡️Antioxidants

AnthocyaninsQuercetinKaempferolMyricetinEllagic acid

🌿Phytonutrients

FlavonoidsTanninsPhenolic acidsLignans

📊Glycemic Index

Per Serving

Nutrition breakdown for one serving

📏

Serving Size

100g

Calories

50kcal

Breakdown

Carbs

12g

Fiber

12% DV

Sugar

Protein

Fat

0.5g

Vitamin C

💊

40mg

67% DV

Potassium

⚡

150mg

4% DV

Health Benefits

Rich in antioxidants, Ugni helps combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

High in Vitamin C, Ugni supports immune function and skin health.

The fiber content in Ugni aids in digestive health and helps maintain a healthy gut.

Ugni's low glycemic index makes it a suitable fruit for blood sugar management.

The presence of anthocyanins in Ugni may have anti-inflammatory effects, benefiting overall health.

Ugni's potassium content helps maintain normal blood pressure and heart function.

Regular consumption of Ugni may improve cognitive function due to its neuroprotective properties.

Ugni's flavonoids contribute to cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function.

The fruit's ellagic acid content may have cancer-preventive properties.

Ugni's phenolic acids support liver health and detoxification processes.

The lignans in Ugni may help balance hormones and support reproductive health.

Ugni's unique combination of nutrients makes it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

Origin & Distribution

Native Region

Valdivian forests of Chile and Argentina

Global Presence

Chile

Argentina

New Zealand

Australia

United Kingdom

United States

Canada

France

Top Producers

ChileArgentinaNew ZealandAustralia

Historical Background

Ugni molinae, or murtilla, has been cherished by indigenous cultures in Chile and Argentina for centuries. The Mapuche people used it in traditional medicine and as a food source. European settlers brought it to other parts of the world, where it has gained popularity for its unique flavor and health benefits. Today, Ugni is cultivated in various temperate regions and is celebrated for its gastronomic and medicinal properties.

Peak Season

Best Time to Enjoy

Year-round in native regions, seasonal in other areas

2 Varieties Available

Explore Varieties

Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications

Standard Ugni

Chile and Argentina

Color

Deep purple to dark blue

Taste Profile

Sweet-tart

Best For

Fresh eating, desserts, jams

White Ugni

Selective breeding in New Zealand

Color

White to light purple

Taste Profile

Mildly sweet

Best For

Fresh eating, unique culinary applications

Storage & Selection Guide

Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer

How to Choose the Perfect Fruit

Select Ugni fruits that are firm yet slightly yielding to the touch.

Choose fruits with a deep, uniform color, indicating ripeness.

Avoid fruits with visible mold, bruises, or soft spots.

Smell the fruit; a sweet, aromatic scent indicates ripeness.

Opt for organically grown Ugni to minimize pesticide exposure.

Proper Storage Methods

Store Ugni fruits in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.

Place the fruits in a perforated plastic bag to maintain humidity.

Keep Ugni away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas to prevent premature ripening.

Consume Ugni within a week for the best flavor and nutritional value.

Check fruits regularly for any signs of spoilage.

Shelf Life Guide

Room Temperature

2-3 days

Refrigerated

Up to 1 week

Average Shelf Life

7 days

Freezing Instructions

Preserve freshness for months

2-3 months

Wash and dry Ugni fruits thoroughly before freezing.

Spread the fruits in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.

Transfer frozen Ugni to airtight containers or freezer bags.

Label and date the containers for easy identification.

Frozen Ugni can be stored for up to 6 months.

Pro Tip

Label frozen items with the date to track freshness. Most fruits maintain quality for 2-3 months when properly frozen. For best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Culinary Journey

Discover delicious possibilities

Common Uses

Enjoy fresh as a snack or in fruit salads.

Use in desserts like tarts, pies, and sorbets.

Make jams, jellies, and preserves.

Incorporate into smoothies and fruit bowls.

Use as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes.

Infuse in syrups for drizzling over desserts.

Add to savory dishes for a sweet-tart contrast.

Use in baking for muffins, cakes, and bread.

Create Ugni-infused vinegar for salad dressings.

Experiment with Ugni in savory sauces and marinades.

Perfect Pairings

Ugni pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses like goat cheese or brie, enhancing the fruit's sweetness.

Combine Ugni with nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy, satisfying snack.

The fruit's tartness complements rich, fatty fish like salmon or trout.

Ugni's unique flavor shines when paired with spicy foods, balancing heat with sweetness.

Use Ugni in cocktails to add a fruity, exotic twist.

Pair Ugni with dark chocolate for a decadent dessert experience.

The fruit's acidity brightens up creamy desserts like panna cotta or custard.

Ugni's natural sweetness enhances the flavor of roasted meats, especially game meats.

Combine Ugni with herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing summer salad.

Popular Recipes

Ugni and Goat Cheese Tart

Murtilla Jam

Ugni Smoothie Bowl

Chilean Guava Sorbet

Ugni-Infused Syrup

Ugni and Almond Salad

Ugni Chocolate Mousse

Ugni and Basil Summer Salad

Ugni and Dark Chocolate Bark

Ugni and Spicy Shrimp Stir-Fry

Refreshing Beverages

Ugni Smoothie

Ugni Iced Tea

Ugni Mocktail

Ugni and Ginger Beer

Ugni-Infused Water

Safety Information

Allergy Information:

Ugni fruit is generally safe for consumption, but individuals with berry allergies should exercise caution.

Pesticide Concerns:

Choose organically grown Ugni to minimize pesticide exposure.

Who Should Avoid:

• Individuals with berry allergies

Possible Side Effects:

•Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort due to high fiber content.

Preparation Safety:

• Wash Ugni thoroughly before consumption to remove any potential contaminants.

Fun Facts

Surprising trivia you'll love!

Ugni fruit is also known as 'superfruit' due to its high antioxidant content.

The Mapuche people of Chile used Ugni in traditional medicine for its healing properties.

Ugni plants are attractive garden additions, boasting glossy green leaves and delicate white flowers.

Ugni fruit is sometimes called 'the blueberry of the south' due to its similar appearance and taste.

Ugni is used in New Zealand to make a unique type of wine called 'Murtilla wine'.

The fruit's scientific name, Ugni molinae, honors the French botanist Claudio Gay Molina, who first described the plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ugni fruit?

General

Ugni, also known as Chilean guava or murtilla, is a small, round fruit native to the Valdivian forests of Chile and Argentina. It has a sweet-tart flavor and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

How do you eat Ugni fruit?

Preparation

Ugni fruit can be eaten fresh as a snack, added to fruit salads, used in desserts, made into jams and preserves, or incorporated into smoothies and beverages.

What are the health benefits of Ugni fruit?

Health

Ugni fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It supports immune function, aids in digestive health, helps manage blood sugar levels, and may have anti-inflammatory and cancer-preventive properties.

How do you store Ugni fruit?

Storage

Store Ugni fruit in the refrigerator in a perforated plastic bag to maintain humidity. Consume within a week for the best flavor and nutritional value.

Can Ugni fruit be frozen?

Storage

Yes, Ugni fruit can be frozen. Wash and dry the fruits, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen Ugni can be stored for up to 6 months.

What does Ugni fruit taste like?

General

Ugni fruit has a unique sweet-tart flavor, reminiscent of a blend between guava and blueberry. The taste is aromatic and juicy, making it a delightful addition to various culinary applications.