Aronia berries and elderberries are often mentioned together. Both are small, dark purple berries that grow in clusters, both are tart, and both have a long tradition in European kitchens. But they come from very different plants, and there is one important difference in how you prepare them.
At a glance
| Aronia berries | Elderberries | |
|---|---|---|
| Botanical name | Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry) | Sambucus nigra (European elder), Sambucus canadensis (American elder) |
| Plant family | Rose family, like apples and cherries | Elder family (Viburnaceae, formerly Adoxaceae) |
| Berry size | Like a small blueberry | Very small, in large flat clusters |
| Taste | Tart, dry and astringent | Fruity, slightly earthy, less astringent |
| Eat raw? | Yes, although most people find them too tart | No, always cook first |
| Typical uses | Juice, powder, dried berries, jam | Syrup, juice, jam, tea, soups |
The most important difference: elderberries must be cooked
Raw elderberries, as well as the leaves, stems and unripe berries, contain compounds that can cause nausea and stomach upset. That is why elderberries are always cooked, usually by simmering for at least 15 to 20 minutes, before they are eaten or drunk. Commercial elderberry juice is heat-treated for the same reason. Aronia berries do not need cooking; they are simply very tart when raw.
Taste
Aronia is bold and dry, with a flavour between blackcurrant and unsweetened cranberry. Elderberries taste rounder and more fruity once cooked, with a hint of earthiness, which is why they are so popular in syrups and jams. The two work well together: elderberry softens aronia's dryness, and aronia gives elderberry recipes more depth and colour.
In the kitchen
- Syrup: simmer dried elderberries with water, cinnamon, cloves and ginger, strain and sweeten with honey. Add a splash of aronia juice at the end for extra colour and tartness.
- Jam: cook elderberries and aronia berries half and half with apple and sugar.
- Drinks: both juices make a good spritzer with sparkling water and lemon.
- Baking: dried aronia berries can go straight into muffins; dried elderberries should be cooked first, for example into a compote.
Frequently asked questions
Is aronia the same as elderberry?
No. They are unrelated plants. Aronia belongs to the rose family; elderberry belongs to the elder family.
Can I eat elderberries raw like aronia?
No. Always cook elderberries before eating them. Aronia berries can be eaten raw, although most people prefer them processed.
Can I use aronia and elderberry together?
Yes, they work well together in syrups, jams and drinks. Just make sure the elderberries are cooked.
Where can I buy them in Canada?
We ship organic aronia products and dried elderberries across Canada. See all aronia products.
More about aronia: our complete guide to aronia berries.
