Region of Origin
Commodity:
Currant Red
Description & Origin
Currants are a part of the genus Ribes (along with gooseberries) and are thought to have originated in central and eastern Europe and Asia. Food historians believe that by the middle of the 14th century, currants were a huge part of English cuisine, which eventually led to their spread to Germany and France. English settlers are thought to have introduced currants to the colonies in the 1690s, but...
Other Names
Johannisbeere (German), Groseille (French), Ribes (Swedish, Danish, Italian)
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Currants are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Currants are often used in jams and jellies. They are extremely popular in Great Britain and the rest of Europe and are used in many applications, mainly juices.
Flavor Pairings
Yogurt, Peppers, Carrots, Pasta, Chicken, Kale, Veal, Strawberries, Melon, Almonds, Cream, Pears
How to Store & Use in the Kitchen
Unwashed currants should be stored in the refrigerator loosely wrapped between layers of towels. They should be removed from their stems prior to use (unless processing in a juicer). To make removal easier, freeze currants first. They can be used frozen as they would be fresh.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
Currants can be used across menu parts - from cocktails, to shrubs, to baked goods, to sauces. Extra fruit can be frozen for later use with little damage to taste or quality.
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
32-49°F
RECOMMENDED TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
32-39°F (Cold Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING INJURY:
No
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
90-95%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
No
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
No
RIPENS AFTER HARVEST:
No - fruit does not ripen after harvest.
PROFESSIONAL RIPENING RECOMMENDED:
Not necessary.
Quality Assessment
Currants should be attached to their stems, firm, translucent, shiny, and vivid in color.
Important Handling Notes
Handle carefully – these berries can be bruised or damaged in transit! Do not keep near fruits or vegetables that have a strong scent, as they may become tainted with other smells.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, currants may last up to 1-2 weeks.
