A true vitamin bomb in garnet red

Lingonberries prefer sunny locations on high Alpine heathlands and dwarf shrub heaths. Therefore the Ötztal Alps make an ideal habitat between 1400 to 1500 meters altitude and the treeline which can be found above 2000 m in some areas of the Ötztal Valley.

Annemarie Ennemoser is heading for these mountain areas in late summer and early autumn: “I start to pick berries in the central valley around September. In October, I also visit the very high Alpine areas in the surroundings of Sölden and within the upper Ötztal.”

Benzoic, ascorbic and salicylic acid lend mountain cranberries this very special aroma which also preserve juices and jam without adding any chemical substances.

Ascorbic acid is said to have antioxidant effects. In addition to vitamin C the berries also contain vitamin A, B1, B2 and B3 as well as potassium, calcium and magnesium.

Not without reason abbess Hildegard von Bingen, the originator of herbal medicine, recommended healing lingonberries already in the 12th century. Also in Ötztal the magic berries rank among the traditional home remedies for urinary tract infections, fever and colds – still today!

“Lingonberry juice or lingonberry water are considered the healthiest drinks ever,” Annemarie Ennemoser explains. The classic ingredients from Ötztal are 2 tablespoons of lingonberry jam mixed with a glass of water. Annemarie’s modern version also includes homemade cranberry syrup from the juice extractor. “This is the best remedy for sore throats. Ask my family!”

Be it juice or jam – delicious lingonberries are not only an essential part of Ötztal’s medicine chest but also a fine culinary treat. Annemarie combines cranberry jam with whipping cream and yogurt. A perfect dip for Viennese schnitzel, venison roast or pan-fried Tirolean “Ziachkiachln” (similar to donuts). A tasty base for Swiss roles or pancakes.

By law berries and mushrooms belong to the owner of the forest. If it’s not explicitly forbidden you are allowed to pick berries for your own use. It is not allowed to organize berry picking events or take part in such events.

Isolde von Mersi comes from South Tyrol's Pustertal valley and lives in Vienna now. As a popular reporter and book writer for Austrian and German magazines and publishing houses, she explores a huge variety of cultural, culinary and naturalistic treasures of the Alpine countries and its people.

She has been feeling at home in Ötztal for many years already as she contributes to the ÖTZTAL MAGAZINE on a regular basis. And she has found many friends in the valley.