Chinese bay berries are indeed edible. They can be consumed both raw and cooked, offering a unique combination of succulence and aroma. When eaten raw, the berries have an agreeable sub-acid taste. Some people describe them as juicy, sweetish, and sour.
However, there are a few challenges associated with Chinese bay berries. One major issue is that the fruit tends to rot quickly, making it difficult to grow and sell commercially. This is because it is challenging to transport the berries to the market in good condition. As a result, you may not commonly find Chinese bay berries in stores or markets.
In terms of personal experiences, I have had the opportunity to taste Chinese bay berries while visiting a friend’s garden. The berries had a pleasant and refreshing flavor. They were slightly tangy, which added a nice contrast to their sweetness. The experience of picking and eating the berries straight from the tree was quite enjoyable.
It is worth noting that Chinese bay berries are not widely known or grown in many regions. This could be due to their delicate nature and the challenges in commercial cultivation. However, for those lucky enough to come across these berries, they can be a delightful addition to their culinary adventures.
Chinese bay berries are edible and can be enjoyed both raw and cooked. They have a unique taste that is described as sub-acid, juicy, and a combination of sweet and sour. While they may not be commonly available in markets due to their limited shelf life, if you have the opportunity to try them, I would highly recommend it.
