IMAGE- Mirra Whale
Welcome to the sun-drenched days of summer, where Sydney’s streets come alive with the vibrant hues of Riberry-laden Small Leaved Lilli Pilli trees. These urban guardians, adorned with luscious red berries, herald the festive season and offer a treasure trove of culinary and cultural heritage waiting to be rediscovered. At Trolley’d, we’ve embraced the Riberry as the unsung hero of summer, celebrating its tart and spicy allure through our bespoke creations. Join us as we take flight into the world of Riberries—an Australian native with a history as rich as its flavour.
The Botanical Marvel: Riberry Basics
Known scientifically as Syzygium luehmannii, Riberries belong to the Myrtaceae family. Native to the subtropical rainforests of eastern Australia, these evergreen trees thrive in the coastal belts of Queensland and New South Wales. Commonly referred to as Lilly Pilly or Clove Lilli Pilly, these vibrant fruits are more than just ornamental. For centuries, Riberries have held a significant place in the diet and medicine of Australia’s First Nations peoples, revered for their restorative properties and vibrant taste.
Riberries are a testament to nature’s artistry. Their tartness, reminiscent of cranberries, is elevated by spicy undertones of cloves and cinnamon. This unique flavour profile stems from aromatic isolates like myrcene, pinene, limonene, and phellandrene, making them a sensory delight.
Traditional and Modern Uses: Riberries Through the Ages
For thousands of years, Riberries have been a staple in the diets of Indigenous Australians, consumed fresh or cooked into jams and preserves. Beyond their culinary appeal, Riberries were valued for their medicinal properties, aiding in digestive health and providing a natural source of vitamin C.
Today, Riberries are making a glamorous comeback, finding their way into high-end restaurants, artisanal syrups, and yes, Trolley’d’s signature cocktails. Their rich phytochemical composition, including anthocyanins and folate, underscores their status as a superfood, celebrated for both health and flavour.
Foraged and Fabulous: The Trolley’d Riberry Mission
At Trolley’d, we view foraging as both an art and a commitment to sustainability. With gloves on and baskets ready, our team combs Sydney’s streets and gardens, ensuring no Riberry goes to waste. These foraged treasures are the lifeblood of our seasonal offerings—from handcrafted syrups to Riberry-infused gin, each sip tells a story of flavour, sustainability, and connection to the land.
Signature Creations
- Riberry & Calendula Infused Gin: A spirit infused with Riberries’ tartness and spice, and combined with the magical powers of Calendula, a gin as unique as the land it celebrates.
- Riberry Syrup: Perfect for cocktails, mocktails, or a drizzle over desserts, our syrup is a versatile gem.
- Riberry Cocktails: Imagine sipping a vibrant Riberry, Rhubarb & Strawberry Gum Daisy or a Riberry & Finger Lime Negroni, each drink a burst of summer.
- Riberry, Lemon Myrtle & Mandarin Kombucha: A great ferment that helps support your gut microbiome.
At-Home Mixology
Unleash your inner mixologist with our Riberry cocktail kits. Complete with Trolley’d’s handcrafted syrups and mixology tips, these kits transform any gathering into a first-class experience.
The Nutritional Powerhouse
Don’t let their small size fool you; Riberries pack a nutritional punch. Loaded with vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, these berries are a boon for both health and indulgence. Their vibrant red hue signals high anthocyanin content, known for its antioxidant properties that support heart health and combat inflammation.
Honouring Cultural Heritage
We at Trolley’d honour the enduring relationship between Australia’s First Nations peoples and Riberries. Their deep connection to this land and its native flora inspires our commitment to sustainable practices and storytelling. By incorporating Riberries into our creations, we pay tribute to the cultural legacy of these remarkable fruits.
Sustainability in Every Sip
Trolley’d’s mission is to demonstrate that indulgence can be sustainable. From upcycled airplane trolleys to locally foraged ingredients, every element of our service is designed with the planet in mind. By embracing the Riberry, we not only celebrate a native treasure but also reduce food waste and promote biodiversity in urban spaces.
