Dried Currants

What are dried currants?

In the United States, black currants (Ribes nigrum) have a rich and varied history. These purple-black berries have been a favorite food in Europe for ages, but they were forbidden in the United States until very recently. They've recently staged a revival. Northern Europe and northern Asia, where temperatures are typically milder, are the natural habitats of black currants. We know they were in use via the written word back in the 1500s. They were originally common in the United States, but the introduction of a fungus that destroyed white pine trees led to their prohibition in the early 20th century. Many states maintained their bans on selling the fruit for quite some time, and to this day, it is still a rarity in the United States. Some people claim you have to develop a taste for black currants because of their intense flavor. They are often sour, but when mature, they have a sweet taste. They are packed with healthy nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

How do I use dried currants?

Dried currants are wonderful mixed into scone batter or used as a decorative element for gingerbread cookies. Dried currants give texture and a touch of sweetness to savory dishes like rice pilaf and stuffing for chicken, turkey, or game hens.

Dried currants have the following benefits:

The vitamin C in currants helps the immune system work properly. In addition, they include iron, which assists in warding off anemia; calcium, which promotes robust bone health; and phosphorus, which helps muscles contract.

◉ Immune Health: The black currant is rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants. These antioxidants, like the anthocyanins in black currants, help your body fight against infections and viruses. The harm that free radicals inflict on your cells may be slowed or even prevented with the aid of antioxidants.

◉ Reduced Inflammation: Gamma-linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid, is abundant in black currants. Inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, may see reduced inflammation and improved symptoms with the use of this chemical. Some research has also linked gamma-linoleic acid to reduced arthritis-related joint pain and stiffness.

◉ Eye Health: Black currants, which are high in the antioxidant anthocyanin, may be useful in preventing and treating glaucoma, a major cause of blindness. The antioxidant boosts ocular circulation, which may reduce glaucoma's development. Antioxidants such as vitamin C's linoleic acid, gamma-linoleic acid, and others may alleviate dry eye and ocular tiredness.

◉ Digestive Health: Both soluble and insoluble fiber are present in black currants, making them an excellent choice for promoting digestive health. Soluble fiber slows digestion, allowing for more nutritional absorption in the stomach, whereas insoluble fiber helps keep things moving along in the digestive tract. Keeping your colon healthy and free of cancer-causing polyps is another benefit.  

Where to buy dried currants:

Buy Dried Currants from the health food store in the USA, Alive Herbals

Dried Currant Information (at a Glance):