Blackcurrant Recipes
This collection of blackcurrant recipes is the perfect way to find lots of delicious recipes to make with this versatile fruit. Blackcurrants have a wonderful fresh and sharp flavour that you can turn into great jam, ice cream, cakes and desserts.
Why should I make recipes with blackcurrants?
Blackcurrants are a lesser known soft fruit that I’d really like more people to discover because they have a rich and delicious flavour. If you haven’t tried them then I urge you to look out for these little berries that are packed with vitamin C.
If you grow your own blackcurrants then you’ll know how delicious they are. Most years they grow really well so you will probably have more than you know what to do with and will be looking for new recipe ideas.
What are blackcurrants?
Blackcurrants are small tart berries that grow on a woody shrub. They are easy to grow in the garden and will even grow well in containers. Blackcurrants ripen in mid-summer and are ready to pick when they turn from dark red to black.
Where can I buy blackcurrants?
Blackcurrants are not as easily available as many other summer soft fruits. Most of the commercial blackcurrant crop in the UK goes into making blackcurrant cordial or other blackcurrant products. Some supermarkets do stock blackcurrants during the summer. Also, look out for blackcurrants at Farmer’s Markets or ask an independent Greengrocer to source some for you.
Can I grow my own blackcurrants?
You can grow your own blackcurrants in your garden, they are a really easy fruit to grow. Read my Step-by-Step Guide: How to Grow Blackcurrants for all the information you need to successfully grow your own blackcurrants in the garden or in a container.
Are blackcurrants banned in the USA?
There isn’t a single answer to this question. However, in 1911 all varieties of Ribes including blackcurrants and gooseberries were made illegal to grow in the US because they were carriers of white pine blister rust an infection that could damage white pine trees.
Because of the federal ban currants and gooseberries weren’t grown at all in the US until the ban was lifted in 1966. So now the regulations vary from state to state.
Can I freeze blackcurrants?
Yes, they freeze really well and it’s a good idea to freeze them when you can get them. Lay them in a single layer on a tray and freeze until solid, and then store in a freezerproof container.
How long can I keep frozen blackcrurants?
If properly frozen and well stored, you can keep frozen blackcurrants for up to 12 months. I have kept them for up to two years and they have been fine once cooked.
What blackcurrant recipes can I make?
There are many different ways to include blackcurrants in your recipes. I’ve included links below to the recipes that I have developed but any recipe that uses a tart fruit such as apples, plums or rhubarb can be adapated to include blackcurrants. Here are some blackcurrant recipes that I have developed:
