Currants are small black seedless tasty and nutritious grapes grown in Greece, principally in the Peloponnese peninsula and on the lonian islands of Zante and Cephalonia . The name is probably a corruption of ‘Raisin de Corinthe’ and Corinth has, for centuries, been a port of origin of this special type of dried fruit.
Where do currants come from?
Today, Greece is the largest producer of currants . California, Australia, and South Africa also produce currants. When dried for a few weeks, these tiny grapes get even smaller, and they pack a sweet and tangy flavor. Currants are the smallest dried grape, smaller than both raisins and sultanas.
Why is black currant illegal in the US?
The growing and importation of currants were banned in New York and other parts of the United States for more than half a century because they were thought to help spread a fungus that threatened the timber industry .
What’s the difference between a raisin and a currant?
Raisins, sultanas and currants are different types of dried grapes that are rich in fiber, potassium and antioxidants. Raisins are made from a range of grape varieties. ... Currants are made from small grape varieties. They are dried naturally and are the smallest and darkest of the three.
Where did red currants originate?
The red currant is original from western Europe . During the Middle Ages, red currants were highly valued by doctors, but it was not until the XVth century that its systematic culture began. They were used to flavour and to colour soft wines. During the XVIIIth century it was already eaten as dessert fruit.
Are currants good for you?
Black currants are high in antioxidants , including vitamin C. Along with the anthocyanins in black currants, these antioxidants can help to give your immune system a boost, allowing your body to fight infection and viruses more effectively. Black currants are rich in an omega-6 fatty acid called gamma-linoleic acid.
What are currants called in the US?
The grapes were originally cultivated in the south of Greece and more specifically, the island of Zante, hence the name Zante currant , used in the United States. The name currant comes from the ancient city of Corinth. Other names for currants are Zante currants, Corinth raisins, or Corinthian raisins.
What fruits are banned in the US?
- West Indian Locust Fruits. These fruits are native to the Caribbean, as well as South and Central America. ...
- Mirabelle Plums. You know how real champagne is only brewed in France’s Champagne region? ...
- Certain Tomatoes. ...
- Fresh Ackee Fruits. ...
- Honorable Mention: Purple Mangosteen.
Why are gooseberries illegal?
Why were gooseberries illegal? Gooseberries were once banned in the U.S. because they contributed to a tree-killing disease called “white pine blister rust” that was decimating these trees. It had a huge impact on white pine lumber-reliant economies like Maine.
What are black currants called in America?
In the U.S. we still use the separated name “Black Currant” as well as Red Currant or White Currant and often, just Currant which causes some confusion with the misnamed raisins. Zante currants have become part of the English vernacular and have come to be accepted to identify the Greek raisins.
Can you eat currants raw?
Currants are related to gooseberries and come in a mix of colors. While they are sour, they tend to be less sour than gooseberries so they can be eaten raw: sprinkle them on your morning yogurt or just eat them by the handful. ... But they do get deliciously sweet and juicy when cooked, too.
What are currants used for?
Fresh currants can be used like blueberries, and somewhat like blackberries or raspberries, in tarts and pies , and other desserts, such as sorbets and puddings. Use them fresh in fruit salads, particularly berry mixes, or to garnish desserts with their pretty color.
What does Munakka called in English?
Munakka is known as the “ Tree of Life ” because of its regenerative ability. It has a sweet taste and is generally used as a dry fruit, mostly for medicinal purposes.
Are there poisonous currants?
Ingestion of even a small amount of grapes or raisins (including Zante currants ) can result in severe, acute kidney failure. Although the mechanism of action is not clearly understood as to how these foods are poisonous, ingestion can result in anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially acute renal failure.
Can I eat red currants?
These shiny red berries are traditionally made into redcurrant jelly. ... These shiny little berries grow low on bushes, hanging from the branches like rows of miniature gems. Their flavour is a little tart but they’re still sweet enough to be eaten raw , so long as they’re sprinkled with plenty of sugar.
Are currants poisonous?
Hazards. Just like grapes and raisins, currants are toxic to dogs and potentially cats as well. Consuming even small amounts of currants can cause serious damage, so it’s important to keep them well out of reach of your pets.
