Red Currant

What Are Red Currants?

Red currants (Ribes rubrum) are a summer fruit with small, bright red, translucent berries that grow in clusters. They are not related to grapes; the berries are about the size of peas.

Because of their distinctly tart flavor, they are more often eaten cooked with sugar than raw. They are widely used in jelly and dessert garnishes in European cooking.

Red Currant Nutrition Facts

Red currants are a low-to-moderate-calorie fruit rich in fiber and vitamin C; 100 g contains about 56 kcal and 4.3 g of fiber.

What Are the Benefits of Red Currants?

Red currants are fruits high in vitamin C and fiber and can be part of a balanced diet.

This is general information; red currants are a food and are not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Red Currants

Fresh red currants should be bright red and plump, with intact clusters.

• The berries should be shiny and firm; wrinkled berries indicate staleness.
• The cluster stems should be fresh green.
• Remove any crushed or leaking berries.

How to Store Red Currants

Red currants stay fresh for 3–4 days in the refrigerator when kept in their clusters in a covered container. They can also be frozen; frozen currants can be used directly in jelly and jam.

How to Use Red Currants in the Kitchen

Red currants are well suited to jelly and jam because of their high pectin content; they are also used decoratively in desserts.

How to Make Red Currant Jelly

Briefly boil the berries in water and strain them. Add sugar to the resulting juice and cook until it reaches a jelly consistency; extra pectin is usually unnecessary.

What Recipes Use Red Currants?

Red currant jelly, red currants for cake decoration, sauces (especially with game), and fruit desserts are among the favorite uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are red currants good for?

Red currants are rich in vitamin C and fiber and can be part of a balanced diet. They are a food and are not claimed to cure any disease.

Can you eat red currants raw?

Yes, but because they are distinctly tart, they are usually eaten with sugar or other fruit; eating them plain may not suit everyone’s taste.

Are red currants and gooseberries the same?

No, they are different species. Both belong to the genus Ribes, but gooseberries are larger and have fuzzy, rough skins, while red currants are small and smooth.

How do you remove red currants from their stems?

Slide the tines of a fork along the cluster stem to separate the berries one at a time.

Can red currants be frozen?

Yes. Berries removed from their clusters can be stored in the freezer for months; use them directly from frozen in jelly and sauces.