Fruit|Berry | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free High Fiber

Currant

Ribes spp. Allergen-Free
currant

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Grossulariaceae
  • Primary Cuisine European
  • Seasonality Summer (June-August)
  • Source Ribes spp. berries

The Forktionary Angle

"Zante currants are actually tiny dried grapes, not true currants!"

Definition

Small, tart berries, typically red, black, or white, grown on shrubs, enjoyed fresh, dried, or in preserves and baked goods.

Sensory Profile

TasteTart, Tangy, Sweet (when ripe or dried), Fruity
TextureJuicy, Small seeds, Slightly chewy (dried)
AromaFruity, Earthy (blackcurrant)
AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Common Uses

Jams, baked goods, sauces, salads

Shelf Life (Dried)

6-12 months in pantry

Vitamin Content

High in Vitamin C (especially black currants)

Nutrition Facts

Per 80g (1/2 cup fresh)
Calories56 kcal
Total Fat0.2g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein1.4g
Total Carbohydrate14g
Dietary Fiber4.3g
Total Sugars7.4g
Calcium33mg
Iron1mg
Potassium275mg

Chef’s Secret

Blackcurrants are exceptionally high in pectin, making them ideal for setting jams and jellies without added thickeners.

Substitutions

Best Match

Dried Cranberries

1:1

For dried currants, similar tartness and sweetness, good in baking.

Dried Cherries

1:1

Sweeter, but similar size and chewiness, suitable for baking or trail mix.

Raspberries

1:1

For fresh currants, similar tartness and small seeds, good for desserts and jams.

Raisins

1:1

For dried currants, much sweeter, lacks the characteristic tartness, but provides bulk.

Buying Guide

Look for plump, firm, brightly colored berries. For dried, ensure they are not too sticky or clumpy.

Flavor Pairings

Apples pears chocolate game meats cheese yogurt oats.

Recipes Using Currant

European Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient Time To Make

Add A Little Interest With Persian Couscous

Quick, vibrant, and flavorful! This Persian couscous recipe is a weeknight dinner hero. Perfect for busy cooks, this colorful dish boasts delightful textures and is ready in under 20 minutes. Serve it as a vibrant side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course. Inspired by Alison & Simon Holst's easy vegetarian cookbook, this recipe is a family favorite – even picky eaters will love it!

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Taste Mood Holiday Event Preparation Course

Alexander's Orzo And Wild Rice Salad

A vibrant and flavorful orzo and wild rice salad, perfect as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish. This recipe boasts a zesty lemon-herb dressing that complements the nutty wild rice and tender orzo. Easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors, it's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Asian 60 Minutes Or Less Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient

Amazing Turkish Confetti Rice

Experience a taste of Izmir with this vibrant Turkish Confetti Rice! A recipe passed down from a family cook in Turkey, this dish is unbelievably delicious and visually stunning. The perfect side for any occasion, its bursts of color and incredible flavor will leave you wanting more. Prepare to be amazed!

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Condiments Etc Easy Healthy 2 Sauces

Apple Chutney From The Duck Soup Inn

Capture the magic of the San Juan Islands with this exceptional Apple Chutney recipe, straight from the renowned Duck Soup Inn! Sweet, tangy, and subtly spiced, this chutney is the perfect complement to ham, cheese boards, or roasted meats. Imagine the rich flavors of perfectly ripe apples simmered to a luscious, syrupy perfection – a taste of island charm you'll crave again and again.

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Puddings And Mousses Time To Make Main Ingredient 4 Hours Or Less

Apple Gingerbread Bread Pudding

Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert! This Apple Gingerbread Bread Pudding is a decadent masterpiece, bursting with warm spices and the sweetness of apples. Perfect for cozy nights in, holidays, or impressing your guests. Get ready for a taste of pure heaven!

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Apples Quick Breads 15 Minutes Or Less Breads

Apple Scones

Indulge in the warm, comforting aroma and delightful taste of homemade Apple Scones! This easy recipe yields perfectly golden-brown scones, bursting with juicy apple chunks and a hint of cinnamon. A perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, these scones are incredibly flaky and tender, best served warm with butter and marmalade. Elevate your baking game with this simple yet satisfying recipe!

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Dinner Party Main Ingredient Time To Make Puddings And Mousses

Apricot Bread Pudding

Elevate your taste buds with this irresistible Apricot Bread Pudding! Sun-dried apricots and a warm whisper of cardamom transform a classic comfort food into a truly special dessert. Perfectly moist and studded with sweet-tart apricots, this bread pudding is the ultimate cozy treat for any occasion. Get the recipe now!

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Occasion Cuisine 4 Hours Or Less Preparation

Authentic Irish Soda Bread Bread Machine

Bake the most incredible, authentic Irish soda bread in your bread machine this St. Patrick's Day! This recipe, adapted from "Rustic European Bread," delivers a deliciously crumbly loaf with a subtly sweet flavor. Impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Perfect for celebrations or a simple, satisfying treat.

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Number Of Servings Kid Friendly Beginner Cook Dietary

Autumn Oatmeal Muffins

Warm up your autumn mornings with these irresistible Oatmeal Muffins! This easy recipe makes a big batch of delicious, healthy muffins bursting with fall flavors. Imagine the cozy aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen as these perfectly golden-brown treats bake to perfection. They're the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack. Get ready for a taste of autumn!

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Healthy 2 Dietary Low Saturated Fat Healthy

Baked Apples In Maple Syrup

Indulge in the comforting sweetness of baked apples, infused with the rich warmth of maple syrup and a hint of spice. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy fall evening or a delightful holiday treat. The apples become tender and juicy, creating a delicious dessert that's both simple and elegant.

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Low Protein Fall Healthy Preparation

Baked Butternut Squash With Apples And Maple Syrup

Embrace the flavors of fall with this irresistible Baked Butternut Squash recipe! Inspired by a classic Bon Appétit dish, this recipe features tender butternut squash, crisp apples, and a luscious maple syrup glaze. Perfect for a cozy autumn dinner or Thanksgiving side dish. Easy to follow instructions and stunning results!

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60 Minutes Or Less Dietary Low Carb Chicken Breasts

Balsamic Chicken And Peppers

This Balsamic Chicken and Peppers recipe is a flavor explosion! Tender chicken breasts are coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust and pan-seared to perfection. Sweet bell peppers, tangy balsamic vinegar, and crunchy almonds create a vibrant sauce that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. Served with a side of saffron basmati rice pilaf and green beans (as suggested!), this dish is a delicious and satisfying weeknight meal your whole family will love. Easy to follow instructions and impressive results make this recipe a must-try!

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Snacks Easy Vegan 15 Minutes Or Less

Banana Bomb

Fuel your morning with this explosive Banana Bomb Smoothie! This high-calorie, delicious blend is packed with potassium and natural sweetness, perfect for a quick and energizing breakfast. Get ready for a taste bud adventure!

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Breads Course Nuts Dietary

Banana Coconut Bread

Indulge in the tropical paradise of our Banana Coconut Bread! This moist and delicious loaf cake is bursting with the sweetness of ripe bananas and the creamy richness of coconut. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a taste of the islands!

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To Go Inexpensive Beginner Cook Easy

Bannock

Discover the secrets of authentic Bannock, a quick and easy Native American fry bread recipe! This recipe, adapted from a classic magazine article, shares a delightful historical anecdote: 'Rich Indians add raisins to their bannock,' offering a delicious twist. Learn to make this simple yet flavorful bread in just 15 minutes – a true taste of tradition!

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Preparation Low Calorie Vegetables Low Saturated Fat

Basil Cucumber Salad

This vibrant Indonesian salad is quick, easy, and incredibly refreshing! Made with crisp cucumbers, fragrant basil, and a zesty vinegar dressing, it's the perfect side dish for any meal. Prepare it in minutes and let it marinate for a burst of flavor that complements everything from grilled meats to noodle dishes. Get ready for a taste of Indonesia!

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Occasion Taste Mood Occasion Dietary

Basmati Rice Pilaf

Experience the aromatic delight of this exquisite Basmati Rice Pilaf! This recipe, perfected over countless batches, delivers a fragrant and flavorful rice dish bursting with the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of currants, and a subtle hint of spice. Easy to follow instructions guide you to a perfectly tender rice pilaf that's ideal as a side dish for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Elevate your meal with this unforgettable rice pilaf recipe.

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Equipment Vegan Number Of Servings Low Cholesterol

Vegan Crannberry Currant Oatmeal Cookies

Indulge in these delicious and healthy Vegan Cranberry Currant Oatmeal Cookies! Adapted from a Vegan Planet recipe, these chewy cookies are surprisingly good for you and surprisingly easy to make. Bursting with tart cranberries and sweet currants, they're the perfect guilt-free treat for any occasion. A perfect vegan dessert that's both satisfying and wholesome.

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