As summer approaches, the sweet aroma of red currants fills the air. These tiny, juicy fruits are a staple of European cuisine and are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your dishes. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory meal, red currants can do it all. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious red currant recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household.
From classic desserts like jam and tart to innovative cocktails and sauces, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering recipes. We’ll start with some sweet treats, including a vanilla-infused jam and white chocolate muffins, before moving on to savory dishes like glazed pork chops and duck breast. And don’t forget the salads – our red currant and goat cheese salad is a summer staple!
So grab your apron and get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 delicious red currant recipes!
Red Currant and Vanilla Jam
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of red currants with the warmth of vanilla, creating a deliciously unique jam perfect for toast, yogurt, or using as a topping for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red currants
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the red currants and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the red currants, sugar, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Let the jam cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Currant Tart with Almond Crust
This recipe combines the sweetness of almonds with the tanginess of red currants, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the filling:
– 1 cup fresh red currants
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together red currants, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Pour mixture over the crust.
5. Drizzle heavy cream over the filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Red Currant Sorbet with Mint
This refreshing sorbet is perfect for warm weather, combining the sweetness of red currants with the cooling touch of mint. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and healthy dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen red currants
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the red currants and remove any stems or leaves. If using frozen, thaw first.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the red currants with the sugar until smooth.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine the strained mixture, water, mint leaves, and lemon juice. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required (uses an ice cream maker)
Red Currant Glazed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops game with this sweet and tangy red currant glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of juicy pork, crispy caramelized glaze, and pop of fresh flavors will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1 cup red currants
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree red currants, honey, apple cider vinegar, and garlic until smooth.
3. Brush both sides of pork chops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or pan-fry pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush glaze all over pork chops.
6. Finish cooking in the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Let rest before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Currant and Goat Cheese Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors, with the crunch of fresh greens. It’s an ideal side dish for warm-weather gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup red currants, washed and stemmed
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens.
2. Arrange red currants on top of the greens.
3. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the currants.
4. Add chopped nuts and toss gently to combine.
5. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Red Currant Compote with Yogurt
This refreshing compote is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer, combining sweet and tangy red currants with creamy yogurt. Serve as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh red currants
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt (any type you prefer)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the red currants and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the currants, honey, lemon juice, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the currants have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Stir in the yogurt until well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Red Currant and White Chocolate Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of white chocolate with the tanginess of red currants, creating a unique and delicious treat. Perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh or frozen red currants
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and milk.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in white chocolate chips and red currants.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow muffins to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Red Currant BBQ Sauce for Ribs
This unique BBQ sauce combines the natural sweetness of red currants with a tangy twist, perfectly balancing flavors to elevate your ribs to new heights. This sweet and sticky glaze is perfect for slathering on pork ribs before grilling or baking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red currant jam
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine red currant jam, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: None needed! This sauce is ready to use immediately.
Tips:
Use this sauce as a glaze during the last 10 minutes of grilling or baking pork ribs. You can also brush it on during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra sweet and sticky finish.
Red Currant and Lemon Loaf Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of red currants with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a springtime treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup red currants, fresh or frozen
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in yogurt, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Gently fold in red currants.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Let cool on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Currant Jelly with Thyme
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of red currants with the earthy flavor of thyme to create a unique and delicious jelly perfect for toast, scones, or as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red currants, fresh or frozen
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon thyme leaves
– 1 lemon, juiced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the currants and remove any stems or leaves. If using frozen, thaw first.
2. Combine the currants, sugar, water, and honey in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the thyme leaves and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened into a jelly-like consistency.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice (if using). Let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Red Currant and Raspberry Smoothie
Beat the heat with this refreshing blend of sweet and tart flavors. This smoothie is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a light dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red currants
– 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine red currants, raspberries, and banana.
2. Add honey and blend until smooth.
3. Add yogurt and milk; blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Red Currant and Brie Crostini
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet elegant appetizer featuring the sweetness of red currants and creaminess of brie cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz brie cheese, softened
– 1 cup fresh or frozen red currants
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until toasted and lightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, mix red currants with honey in a small bowl.
5. Spread softened brie cheese on toasted baguette slices.
6. Top each crostini with a spoonful of red currant mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Currant and Gin Cocktail
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweet-tart flavor of red currants with the crispness of gin, perfect for warm weather sipping. With a splash of lemon and a hint of sweetness, this drink is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup red currant puree or jam
– Splash of lemon juice
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and red currant puree.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Squeeze a splash of lemon juice on top.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Red Currant and Apple Crumble
This crumble combines the sweetness of apples with the tanginess of red currants, topped with a crunchy oat and butter mixture. Perfect for a cozy evening dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh red currants, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples and red currants.
3. Add sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg; mix until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats and brown sugar.
5. Add butter and mix until crumbly.
6. Pour apple mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish and top with oat mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Currant Glazed Duck Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory red currant glazed duck breast recipe, perfect for special occasions or a romantic evening. This dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and tender texture.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts
– 1 cup red currants
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree red currants, honey, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Brush the glaze all over the duck breasts, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the duck breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the duck reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the duck rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Currant and Coconut Panna Cotta
This unique dessert combines the sweetness of coconut with the tanginess of red currants, creating a refreshing and flavorful panna cotta perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup red currant preserves
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in shredded coconut, red currant preserves, and vanilla extract. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into a large bowl and refrigerate until chilled, at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Pour the panna cotta into individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for an additional 2 hours to set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Chilling Time: At least 4 hours or overnight
Red Currant and Hazelnut Biscotti
These crunchy Italian cookies are infused with the sweetness of red currants and the earthiness of hazelnuts, making them a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup red currant jam
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– Freshly grated nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until smooth. Add red currant jam and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Fold in hazelnuts.
5. Shape into a log and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing into 1-inch thick slices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Currant and Basil Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads and sandwiches with this refreshing vinaigrette, featuring the sweet-tart flavor of red currants and the brightness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red currants, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine red currants, olive oil, vinegar, basil, and Dijon mustard.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Strain vinaigrette through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove seeds and solids.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Currant and Dark Chocolate Truffles
A sweet and tangy combination of fresh red currants and rich dark chocolate, these truffles are perfect for a special occasion or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup fresh red currants, rinsed and drained
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and warm.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Stir in dark chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
4. Fold in fresh red currants and salt.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll between your hands to form truffles.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None
Red Currant and Orange Marmalade
This marmalade combines the tartness of red currants with the brightness of orange zest, creating a sweet and tangy preserve perfect for toast, yogurt, or as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen red currants
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 lemon, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Rinse the currants and remove any stems or leaves. If using frozen currants, defrost first.
2. In a large pot, combine the sugar, orange juice, water, and orange zest. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Add the currants and lemon slices to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the marmalade has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy flavor of summer with these 20 delicious red currant recipes! From classic jam and tart to unique sorbet and BBQ sauce, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing red currants with goat cheese and mint for a refreshing salad, or use them as a topping for pork chops or duck breast. You can also add them to your favorite smoothie or cocktail. For a sweet treat, try making muffins, cookies, or panna cotta. With these recipes, you’ll be enjoying the best of summer all year round!
