Zante currant

Zante currants, also known as Corinth raisins or simply currants outside the U.S., are dried berries from the Black Corinth grape. Despite their name, they are not related to black, red, or white currants. The name "currant" derives from the Anglo-French term "raisins de Corinthe" and the Greek island of Zakynthos, which was once a major producer.

Currants boast a long history, reaching back to ancient times. Pliny the Elder made mention of them in 75 AD. During the 14th century, Venetian merchants traded these dried grapes with Greek producers, introducing them to the English market as "Reysyns de Corauntz."

In the 17th century, the center of trade shifted to the Ionian islands, particularly Zakynthos, leading to the term "Zante currant." The cultivation of these grapes began in the U.S. in the mid-19th century, with commercial farming becoming established by the early 20th century. Today, Greece remains the leading producer of currants, followed by California, South Africa, and Australia.

Black Corinth grapes are tiny, seedless, and nearly round, with a thin skin. When dried, they darken to a deep brown or black color. Growing these grapes is challenging due to their susceptibility to diseases such as powdery mildew. In the kitchen, dried currants are a staple in British cuisine, featured in classics like fruitcake, mince pies, and Christmas pudding.

Despite their name, Zante currants are not a significant source of vitamin C. They are prized for their intense flavor and small size. However, it is crucial to note that, like other grapes and raisins, Zante currants can be toxic to dogs, potentially causing kidney failure even in small amounts.