Rowan Berries

Rowan berries are small, bright red fruits of the rowan tree (Sorbus aucuparia) that ripen in autumn. When raw, they have a distinctly bitter and astringent taste, so they are most often processed by cooking or fermentation. After the first frost, much of the bitterness disappears. In the kitchen, they are used to make jams, jellies, compotes, liqueurs, juices, and vinegar. They make an excellent accompaniment to game and dark meats. Rich in vitamin C, carotenoids, and antioxidants, they also offer notable health benefits. Rowan berries can be found growing freely in nature and their harvest is traditionally associated with the autumn season.