Sloes are the fruit of the blackthorn bush, and have a similar taste to damsons. They can be used to make sloe gin, as well as being used in jams, pies and crumbles.
Sloe gin is made by steeping the fruit in gin for several months. This produces a ruby-red liqueur which is sweet and tart. Sloe jam can be made by cooking the fruit with sugar until it forms a thick syrup. This can then be spread on toast or used in baking.
Pies and crumbles made with sloes are usually served with custard or cream. The sharp flavour of the fruit goes well with rich, creamy desserts. Sloes can also be added to red wine to create a fruity, winter-warming drink.