Virtual China: Ningxia and Trying Ningxia Red

 

Once absorbed by Gansu...now back to being autonomous...Ningxia (Nin-shah) is the tiniest Province in China.

To be honest...it is such a small sliver...I nearly overlooked it.

If it had not been for learning about one of its exports.

Ningxia Red.

A health drink which has reached most of the world.

Essential oil of Wolf-Berry (...which is the Chinese version of India's Goji Berries)

Combined with citrus fruits,vitamins and minerals.

Of course, I had to try it.

I bought 2 of the 2 ounce packets.  Two ounces being the recommended serving...and I wanted to try it both chilled and un-chilled. 

They sell it in 750ml bottles...but it seemed excessive and is quite expensive.

At room temperature it was almost undrinkable.

It smelled good...but the color was almost like old blood and the consistency was that of tomato juice...bleah.

Chilled...it has the same wonderful fruity smell...the color was STILL horrible and muddy...the consistency was the same...but cold it was easier to swallow. 

So there is that.

You can find it on eBay if you want to sample it yourself.

A powerful anti-oxidant it detoxifies the liver and kidneys.

Repairs skin.

Boosts the immune system.

Negative side effects include allergies and stomach/GI discomfort.

Back to the Province.

The name means "Peaceful Xia"

Aside from Ningxia Red the area is also known for its wine-making.

 The area was conquered by Genghis Khan  in the early 13th Century and remained fairly stable...farmers and livestock and grazing land. Mainly goats and sheep.

And growing wolf-berries.

Next time we will explore Heilongjiang.

Until then...