Enjoy the goodness of sweet and tangy mulberry preserves with this easy homemade recipe. Made with plump and juicy mulberries, this preserves recipe will be a delightful addition to your breakfast or dessert spread. It is perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, or even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can savor the natural flavors of mulberries all year round.
Ingredients
- 8 cups fresh mulberries, washed and stems removed
- 6 cups granulated sugar
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 pinch salt
Directions
- In a large pot, combine the mulberries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt.
- Stir the mixture well and let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reaches the desired consistency.
- To test the consistency, place a small amount of the preserves on a chilled plate. If it thickens and wrinkles when pushed with a spoon, it is done.
- Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and let it cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Carefully ladle the hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace to allow for expansion during storage.
- Wipe the rims of the jars clean to ensure a proper seal.
- Place the lids on the jars and tighten them securely.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sterilization and sealing.
- Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely.
- Check the lids for a proper seal by pressing down on the center. If the lid does not pop back, it is sealed.
- Store the mulberry preserves in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
- Once opened, refrigerate the preserves and consume within a month.
Interesting Facts
Mulberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins C and K.
Mulberry trees are native to North America and are commonly found in the wild.
Mulberries come in different colors, including red, black, and white.
Mulberry preserves can be used in various desserts, such as pies, tarts, and cakes.