The difference between raisins, sultanas, and currants

When it comes to dried fruit, raisins are king. Although humble in appearance, they are found in a variety of savory and sweet recipes in almost every food culture in the world. Have you ever wondered about the difference between raisins and sultanas (aka golden raisins)? And did you know there is another dried grape product that goes by another name? Head over to The Kitchn to learn the details.

Even I – someone who is averse to almost everything raisin – found the article informative. For instance, I did not know that sultanas are able to absorb liquid more readily than regular raisins, nor did I understand exactly how the two products were different from one another.

I was also surprised to learn that Zante currants are not currants at all but another (smaller) dried grape, generally imported from Greece. Zante currants are only called currants in the US – and truth be told if you see any dried fruits labeled currants here in the States, they are quite likely imposters! The confusion is the result of a misguided ban on importing currants in the early 20th century, plus a touch of bad translation.

If, unlike me, you are team raisin, check out the EYB Library to find hundreds of ways to use these flavor-packed morsels. You’ll find over 5,500 online recipes featuring raisins, of which 3,700 recipes feature sultanas/golden raisins. The Library also contains 650 online recipes using dried currants.

Photo of Golden raisins in Chardonnay syrup over baked Brie from All Things Lead to the Kitchen by Heather Schmitt-González