Mors (drink)

Traditional Russian non-alcoholic fruit drink

Mors (Russian: морс ) is a traditional non-alcoholic fruit drink originating from Russia and other Slavic countries. It is typically made from berries, such as cranberries, lingonberries, or blackcurrants, mixed with water and sweetened with sugar or honey. Mors is known for its refreshing taste and is often consumed chilled.

Preparation

Error creating thumbnail:

Mors served in a glass

The preparation of mors involves several steps to extract the juice from the berries and create a flavorful drink. The basic process includes:

1. Berry Selection: Commonly used berries include cranberries, lingonberries, and blackcurrants. These berries are chosen for their tartness and high vitamin content.
2. Juice Extraction: The berries are washed and then crushed to extract their juice. This can be done using a juicer or by manually mashing the berries.
3. Boiling: The extracted juice is mixed with water and brought to a boil. This step helps to sterilize the drink and enhance the flavor.
4. Sweetening: Sugar or honey is added to the boiling mixture to balance the tartness of the berries. The amount of sweetener can be adjusted according to taste.
5. Cooling: After boiling, the mixture is allowed to cool. It is then strained to remove any solid berry remnants, resulting in a clear, refreshing drink.

Cultural Significance

Mors has a long history in Russian and Slavic cultures, where it is often served during meals or as a refreshing beverage on hot days. It is also a popular drink during the winter months due to its high vitamin C content, which is believed to help prevent colds and boost the immune system.

In addition to its health benefits, mors is appreciated for its natural flavors and is often made at home using family recipes passed down through generations. It is also available commercially in bottles and cartons.

Variations

While the traditional mors is made from berries, variations exist that incorporate other fruits such as apples, cherries, or plums. These variations may also include spices like cinnamon or cloves to add warmth and complexity to the flavor.

Consumption

Mors is typically served chilled, making it a popular choice during the summer months. It can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to meals. In some regions, it is also used as a mixer in alcoholic beverages, adding a fruity and refreshing twist to cocktails.

Related pages

• Kvass
• Kompot
• Russian cuisine
• Non-alcoholic beverage