What is the Difference Between Raisins and Currants?

Raisins, sultanas, and currants are all types of dried grapes, but they have different characteristics in terms of color, size, taste, and where they are grown. Here are the main differences between raisins and currants:

• Origin: Raisins and sultanas are dried white grapes, typically from varieties of vine-grown white grapes. Currants, on the other hand, are fresh bush-grown berries that are more tart than sweet. True currants are not usually eaten dried.
• Color: Raisins are dark, dried fruits, while currants can be red, white, or black, depending on the variety.
• Size: Raisins are typically larger than currants.
• Taste: Raisins and sultanas are soft, sweet, and juicy, whereas currants have an intense, sweet, and tangy taste.
• Nutrition: Raisins, sultanas, and currants are all highly nutritious due to the drying process, which reduces the water content and leaves a small, nutrient-dense dried fruit.

In the United States, the term "currant" might refer to Zante currants, which are actually dried grapes of the small, sweet, seedless grape cultivar Black Corinth. These are not to be confused with the true currants, which are grape-like berries that grow on bushes and are not usually eaten dried.

Comparative Table: Raisins vs Currants

Here is a table comparing the differences between raisins and currants:

In summary, raisins are sweet dried fruits made from grape varieties, while currants are fresh bush-grown berries with a tart flavor. Currants can be red, white, or black, and are typically smaller and darker than raisins. Raisins are versatile ingredients in both sweet and savory dishes, while currants are excellent in sauces, jams, jellies, and desserts.