Beverage
Russian Mors with Mixed Berries (Berry Infusion)
Original name: Mors with Mixed Berries
About this dish
Mors is a classic Russian berry drink that has cooled summer tables for centuries. This version uses a mixture of lingonberries, cranberries, and blackcurrants, simmered briefly then steeped to capture their bright, tart essence.
Sweetened lightly and served chilled, it's a refreshing, probiotic-friendly alternative to juice—and a wonderful way to use frozen berries year-round.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
mixed berries
fruit500 g
Imperial measurement: 4 cups
water
liquid1.5 L
Imperial measurement: 6 cups
honey
other3-4 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
fresh mint leaves
herb6 leaves
lemon juice
fruit1 tablespoon
Method
Prepare the berries
5 minsIf using fresh berries, rinse them under cold water. If frozen, keep them frozen; no need to thaw.
Simmer the berries
10 minsIn a large saucepan, combine the berries and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
Mash the berries
2 minsUse a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently crush the berries in the saucepan. This helps release their juice and color.
Steep the mixture
30 minsRemove the saucepan from heat, cover, and let the mixture steep for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to fully infuse.
Strain the liquid
5 minsPlace a fine-mesh strainer over a large bowl or pitcher. Pour the berry mixture through the strainer, pressing on the solids with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the pulp.
Sweeten and cool
10 minsWhile the liquid is still warm, stir in honey to taste. Add lemon juice if using, for extra brightness. Let the mors cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until thoroughly chilled.
Serve
2 minsServe the mors over ice, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Large bowl or pitcher
- Potato masher or spoon
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition facts
Tips
- Adjust the honey according to the sweetness of your berries, some batches are tarter than others.
- For a deeper flavor, let the berries steep longer—up to an hour—before straining., You can use any combination of berries, traditional Russian mors often includes lingonberries, cranberries, or blackcurrants.
- This drink is best enjoyed cold, but it also works as a warm winter mocktail if you skip the chilling step.
Serving suggestions
- Serve chilled in tall glasses with ice cubes. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a few whole berries. Pairs well with light pastries or as a refreshing accompaniment to savory dishes.
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Recipe by
Anya Ivanov
Specialises in Russian cuisineAnya makes pelmeni in batches of 500. She says freezing them is the only way to survive winter.
Describe yourself in three words: Stoic, efficient, freezer queen.