Dried Greek black currants are a type of dried fruit made from the berries of the black currant plant (Ribes nigrum). Black currants are native to Europe and are cultivated in various countries, including Greece.

History of Greek Black Currant

The Greek Black Currant is among the historical products in Greece. It has been cultivated in very specific Greek lands since the 15th century BC. There are references to it in Hippocrates, Homer, Aristotle, and other ancient Greek. In ancient times it was considered a cure for most ailments and was of great value. In fact, in ancient Rome, two jars of Greek Black Currant were equivalent to a slave and Caesar considered it a delicacy. They accompanied the wine at banquets and were used in foods and sweets.

Greek black currants that have been dried have a sweet, tangy flavour with a hint of tartness. They resemble raisins or dried cranberries in size, dark colour, and chewy texture.

Health Benefits

Black currants aid in the treatment and prevention of diseases like cancer, hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol. This Greek “superfood” is advantageous for everyone, including diabetics and people trying to lose weight. Black currant is a top-tier superfood since several human clinical research have demonstrated its health benefits.v

• Potassium and magnesium to help reduce fluid retention;
• Iron to help treat iron-deficiency anemia;
• Antioxidant Vitamin C to aid in the absorption of iron and repairing properties for aging skin as it enhances collagen and elastin production;
• Vitamins B1, B2, B6;
• Probiotic properties to help bowel function;
• Contains antimicrobial, antibacterial, and vasodilatory activity;
• Helps to lower blood pressure, especially for those with Type 2 diabetes because it does not disturb their blood sugar levels;
• Helps reduce liver fat accumulation in patients with fatty liver;
• Maintains its properties even at high temperatures! So, currants can be used in cakes and bread while still maintaining its beneficial properties. Naturally sweetened, black currants can also replace sugar when baking.
• Black currants have more dietary fiber than most fruits! This way, they help with constipation and bowel function.

Uses

Greek black currants that have been dried can be utilized in a number of dishes or eaten as a snack on their own. They are frequently utilized in baking, including muffins, bread, cookies, and cakes. For an explosion of flavour and texture, they can also be added to salads, cereal, yoghurt, trail mixes, and granola.