Black Mulberry

What Is Black Mulberry?

Black mulberry (Morus nigra) is the dark purple-black fruit of a tree of the mulberry family. Compared to white mulberry (Morus alba), it is larger, juicier, more intensely sweet and mildly sour.

Growing in nearly every region of Turkey, especially along garden edges and in rural areas, black mulberry ripens in June-July and has a short harvest season.

Nutritional Values of Black Mulberry

100 grams of raw mulberry contains approximately 43 kcal of energy, 9.8 g of carbohydrate, 1.7 g of fiber and a notable amount of vitamin C (36.4 mg). It is also relatively rich in iron. These values are general mulberry data without distinction by 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 is ongoing into the antioxidant compounds responsible for its dark color; these studies have not yet translated into a definitive health recommendation.

This information is general; black mulberry is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Black Mulberry?

When choosing fresh black mulberry, dark purple-black, glossy and plump berries are preferred.

• Reddish berries are not yet fully ripe and are more sour.
• Crushed berries leaking juice spoil quickly and should be avoided when buying.
• Mulberries still attached to their stem have generally been picked more recently.

How to Store Black Mulberry?

Black mulberry is a very delicate fruit and stays fresh in the refrigerator for only 1-2 days. For long-term storage it is dried or boiled and turned into molasses; it can also be kept in the freezer for a few months.

Using Black Mulberry in the Kitchen

Black mulberry is mostly eaten fresh; it is also dried, processed into molasses and used to make jam. In some regions it is also added to syrup and syrup-based desserts.

How to Make Black Mulberry Molasses?

Washed black mulberries are lightly crushed and strained to separate the juice; the resulting dark liquid is simmered over low heat, skimming off the foam, until it thickens. This molasses is consumed on its own or mixed with tahini.

How to Make Dried Black Mulberry?

Ripe black mulberries are spread on a clean cloth and dried in the sun for a few days; they shrivel and take on a raisin-like appearance. Dried black mulberry is used as a snack or in desserts.

Which Recipes Use Black Mulberry?

Black mulberry molasses, dried black mulberry, black mulberry jam and desserts made with black mulberry are the best-known uses; in some regions it is also consumed with ayran or yogurt.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between black mulberry and white mulberry?

Black mulberry (Morus nigra) is darker in color, juicier, more intensely sweet and mildly sour; white mulberry (Morus alba) is lighter in color and predominantly sweet, with very low sourness.

How is black mulberry stain removed?

Black mulberry stains can be stubborn on fabric; it is recommended to treat a fresh stain immediately with cold water and wash with a stain remover, as dried stains are harder to remove.

How long does black mulberry keep?

Fresh black mulberry only stays fresh in the refrigerator for 1-2 days; for this reason it needs to be consumed or processed quickly.

Is the seed of black mulberry eaten?

Yes, the small seeds of black mulberry are eaten together with the fruit; there is also no need to remove them.

Where does black mulberry grow?

It is a hardy tree that grows widely in nearly every region of Turkey, especially along garden and vineyard edges.