Red currant

Red currant is a small, glossy berry from the shrub Ribes rubrum, cultivated throughout Europe. The berries have a distinctly tart to mildly sweet flavour and are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants and pectin. In the kitchen they are used to make jams, jellies, compotes and juices, as well as a decoration for desserts and cakes. They also work well in fruit salads, sauces for game or roasted meats. Fresh berries can be frozen and used year-round. Their high pectin content ensures natural setting of jams without the need for added gelling agents.