Mulberry Honey

Why people make this honey

When fresh mulberries come back into the markets — a basketful for a few dollars — Nourilo likes to turn them into a homemade mulberry honey. The flavor is mild and sweet, it suits young and old alike, and it can be taken over the long term without the worry of side effects. In traditional food therapy mulberries are associated with nourishing the liver and kidney, calming wind, replenishing fluids, and building blood and a healthy complexion. When they’re in season, it’s worth buying some to steep in wine or make into this honey, ready to take whenever you like.

Method

1. Rinse the fresh mulberries, mash them, and press out the juice (blend or juice, then sieve out the hard little seeds).
2. Pour the juice into a clay pot and bring to a boil.
3. Let it cool a little, then stir in the honey until evenly blended.
4. Take twice a day, 1 tablespoon each time, stirred into warm water.

Nourilo’s Tips

Choose mulberries that are dark purple-black and fully ripe — pale red, underripe ones contain hydrocyanic acid and should not be eaten. The honey can be adjusted to your own taste without harm. Store in the fridge, where it keeps for several months (Nourilo has kept his up to a year). The leftover mulberry pulp can be steeped for tea and then eaten.