What Is Black Mulberry?
Black mulberry (Morus nigra) is the dark purple-black fruit of a tree in the mulberry family. Compared with white mulberry (Morus alba), it is larger, juicier, intensely sweet, and slightly tart.
Black mulberry grows in almost every region of Türkiye, especially along garden edges and in rural areas. It ripens in June–July and has a short harvest season.
Black Mulberry Nutrition Facts
One hundred grams of raw mulberries contains approximately 43 kcal of energy, 9.8 g of carbohydrates, 1.7 g of fiber, and a notable amount of vitamin C (36.4 mg). It is also relatively rich in iron. These are general mulberry values that do not distinguish among species.
What Are the Benefits of Black Mulberry?
With its vitamin C and fiber content, black mulberry can be considered part of a balanced diet. Research continues on antioxidant compounds associated with its dark color; these studies have not yet become definitive health recommendations.
This is general information; black mulberry is a food and does not replace medical treatment.
How to Choose Black Mulberries
Choose fresh black mulberries that are dark purple-black, shiny, and plump.
- Reddish or red berries are not fully ripe yet and are more tart.
- Avoid crushed berries with leaking juice; they spoil quickly.
- Berries that still have their stems attached are generally picked fresher.
How to Store Black Mulberries
Black mulberries are very delicate and stay fresh for only 1–2 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, dry them or simmer them to make pekmez; they can also be kept in the freezer for a few months.
Using Black Mulberries in the Kitchen
Black mulberries are most often eaten fresh; they are also dried, made into pekmez, and used to make jam. In some regions they are added to fruit drinks and syrup-soaked desserts.
How to Make Black Mulberry Pekmez
Gently crush washed black mulberries and strain to separate the juice; simmer the dark juice over low heat, skimming the foam, until it thickens. Eat the pekmez on its own or mixed with tahini.
How to Dry Black Mulberries
Spread ripe black mulberries on a clean cloth and dry them in the sun for a few days; they curl and shrivel until they resemble raisins. Dried black mulberries are eaten as a snack or used in desserts.
What Recipes Use Black Mulberries?
Black mulberry pekmez, dried black mulberries, black mulberry jam, and black mulberry desserts are among the best-known uses; in some regions they are also eaten with ayran or yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between black and white mulberries?
Black mulberries (Morus nigra) are darker, juicier, intensely sweet, and slightly tart; white mulberries (Morus alba) are lighter in color and predominantly sweet, with very little tartness.
How do you remove black mulberry stains?
Black mulberry stains can be stubborn on fabric. Treat a fresh stain right away with cold water and wash with a stain remover; dried stains are harder to remove.
How long do black mulberries last?
Fresh black mulberries stay fresh for only 1–2 days in the refrigerator, so they should be eaten or processed quickly.
Can you eat black mulberry seeds?
Yes. The small seeds are eaten along with the fruit; there is no need to remove them.
Where do black mulberries grow?
This hardy tree grows widely across almost every region of Türkiye, especially along garden and vineyard edges.