We love fruit here at Gobelo Farm and we try to make the most of every one of them, finding as many creative ideas as we can to enjoy, prepare and even preserve them for when they are out of season. There are weeks when you will find us busy picking the gooseberries, days when there’s plenty of tomatoes or granadilla and then there is mulberry season. One of our favourites. The trees suddenly become full of tiny green fruit and before long, there are handfuls of dark berries ready to be picked. It never lasts for very long, which only makes us appreciate it even more.
Fresh mulberries are wonderful straight from the tree, but they also don't keep for very long. That means we are usually looking for simple ways to make the most of the harvest while it is here. One of our favourites has become this easy breakfast compote. It comes together in just a few minutes and is a lovely way to start the day.
Here is what you will need:
2 cups fresh mulberries
2 tablespoons honey (or sugar if preferred)
Juice of half a lemon
A few sprigs of fresh thyme
1/4 cup of water
Method:
-Place the mulberries, honey, lemon juice and water into a small saucepan.
-Cook gently over medium heat, stirring every now and then as the berries begin to soften and release their juices.
-Add the thyme and continue simmering for another five to eight minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Some berries can be left whole while others naturally break down.
-Remove the thyme sprigs and allow the compote to cool for a few minutes before serving.

This compote is delicious spooned over yoghurt, porridge or pancakes. It also works beautifully on warm toast or scones, and if there happens to be any left over, it keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days. Even though we do prefer ours straight from the tree, there are other ways mulberry breakfast compote can be preserved for longer. Depending on how long you want to keep it, you can safely store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, freeze it in airtight containers for up to a year, or use a hot water bath to can it for long-term pantry storage.
We enjoy this recipe because it is delicious, easy, goes with many of our breakfast meals, and it is mulberry! Our favourite fruit. What’s currently in season where you are and what’s your favourite compote recipe?
Until next time,
the Gobelo Team