Black currants

How to select

Choose round, firm currants. Look for dry berries with no juice stains.

How to prepare

Rinse berries under running water in a colander. Pat dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.

How to store

• Throw away any bad berries. 
• Store currants in their original container or a pan lined with paper towels. 
• Wrap the container in plastic wrap. 
• Store in the refrigerator for pne week. 
• Only wash right before using. 
• Freeze unwashed currants on a cookie sheet, then place in a plastic bag and use within 10-12 months.

Peak season

Summer

Ways to use

• Make homemade black currant jam. 
• Use black currants in your favorite muffin or pie recipe. 
• Make fresh-squeezed black currant juice. 
• Make black currant sauce to top pork or duck.

Fun facts

• Black currants used to be illegal in the United States because they killed white pine trees. 
• Black currants originated in Northern Europe and Northern Asia. 
• While black currants are a popular fruit in Europe, they are uncommon in the United States. 
• The flavor of black currants has been described as an "acquired taste."

Nutrition info and facts

Black currants have one of the highest antioxidant contents among fruit. Health benefits of black currants include the promotion of eye, immune, and digestive health. The manganese content of black currants can help control blood sugars.

1/4 cup black currants = 18 calories, 4 g carbohydrate, 2 g fiber, 0 g sugar

Learn more

Growing currants and gooseberries in the home garden (UMN Extension)