Red Currant

• Making homemade red currant jelly and jam: Red currants are ideal for making preserves due to their high pectin content, which helps the jelly and jam set properly. The natural tartness of the red currants balances the sweetness of the sugar, resulting in a flavorful and vibrant spread for toast or pastries.
• Preparing red currant sauce for meat dishes: The tartness of red currants makes them a perfect complement to rich meats such as duck, venison, or pork. Red currant sauce adds a bright, fruity element that cuts through the richness of the meat, providing a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Baking red currant pies, tarts, and crumbles: Red currants can be incorporated into pies, tarts, and crumbles for a burst of tartness. Their vibrant color and unique flavor adds complexity and appeal to these classic desserts. Combine them with other fruits for a more balanced flavor.
• Using red currants in summer salads: Add a refreshing twist to summer salads by incorporating fresh red currants. Their tart flavor and juicy texture brighten up green salads, fruit salads, or grain salads. They pair well with ingredients like goat cheese, walnuts, and leafy greens.
• Creating red currant juice and cordials: Red currants can be juiced to create refreshing beverages. You can sweeten the juice to make a cordial or combine it with other fruit juices for a more complex flavor profile. The tartness of the red currants adds a zing to homemade drinks.
• Garnishing desserts and pastries with fresh red currants: The vibrant red color and delicate flavor of red currants make them an excellent garnish for desserts and pastries. Use them to decorate cakes, cheesecakes, mousses, and other sweet treats, adding a touch of elegance and a burst of fresh flavor.

• Rich in antioxidants that help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
• High in vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
• Good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity.
• Contains vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health.
• Low in calories, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet.
• May contribute to heart health by helping to regulate blood pressure.

Red currants are best stored in the refrigerator. Gently remove any damaged berries, then place the unwashed currants in a shallow container lined with paper towels. Cover loosely and store in the crisper drawer. This will help keep them fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, red currants can be frozen. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Frozen currants can last for up to a year.