9 Ways to Use Blackcurrants

I love blackcurrants. I only know this because we have a couple bushes that were planted around the yard a number of years ago. Every summer I can happily stuff my face with these rich, tart berries by the handful. Thankfully, they’re also ridiculously healthy.

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Still, I have never done anything with blackcurrants besides, well, stand outside and eat them. In North America these types of berries are not commonly used, although there are no reasons why they shouldn’t be. I’ve decided this is the year to make something of our blackcurrants. Here are some ideas that I’ve found, both the typical and the unexpected. All I know is that every single one looks delicious.

Ways to Use Blackcurrants

1. Blackcurrant ice cream

Here is a simple, four-ingredient recipe for no-churn blackcurrant ice cream. Heavy cream, Greek yogurt, and granulated sugar are the only additional ingredients that are required for a tasty treat. Were you hoping for something a little fancier? This recipe requires an ice cream maker and a bit of commitment, but it looks downright delicious.

2. Blackcurrant cordial

Even if you haven’t had (or don’t like) blackcurrants, you likely have enjoyed Ribena at one point or another. Maybe it’s because I’m half British, but this brand-name drink is a favourite of mine. I like this recipe for blackcurrant syrup (cordial) because the only ingredients besides blackcurrants are water, lemon juice, and sugar. If you just want to view the recipe than scroll to the bottom of the post. This is on the top of my list for this season.

3. Blackcurrant compote

I hardly think you need a recipe for a compote, but here is a gorgeous breakfast bowl. The included blackcurrant compote adds only a little water and some maple syrup for a bit of sweetness. You can also do an unsweetened currant reduction that goes brilliantly with meats.

4. Blackcurrant jam

Well, duh. What would this list be without blackcurrant jam? It is basically a compote, actually. However, this recipe uses lemon juice as well. Here is another version that includes butter and can be preserved in the freezer or devoured right away.

If you’re new to canning, be sure to check out Canning for Beginners: What to Know to Get Started

5. Blackcurrants in baking

I can’t narrow this recommendation down to one recipe. If you can use berries in any baking item it can be made with blackcurrants as well. Brownies? Muffins? Pavlova? Your imagination is the only limitation.

6. Black Mead

So, melomel is apparently a name for a mead that is made using honey and fruit. Did you know this? If you’re interested check out this helpful post. There is information on lots of different kinds of melomels, including currant. I’d also like to read this book on Making Mead.

7. Blackcurrant tea

Tea and currents… Sounds like a good mix to me. This article tells how to use dried currants in tea, but also mentions how to use the blackcurrant leaves for the same application. There is also a lot of information about some of the health benefits of these berries.

8. Blackcurrant Curd

Who doesn’t like a good fruit curd? Don’t count me among their ranks! I simply love it. Usually I stick with a lemon curd, but why not add the depth of blackcurrant flavor? This delightful recipe includes corn flour, which helps keep the mixture from splitting.

9. Beetroot and Blackcurrant Energy Bars

I came across this recipe while perusing Pinterest (find my boards here). Breakfast-type bars are a favourite of mine, and the colour on these is just so pretty. I also love that the recipe includes beets. I’m intrigued to try it out and see how it all comes together.

So, however you feel about blackcurrants straight of the bush, there are no excuses not to try a delectable new recipe of method of preparation. These ways to use blackcurrants are a fantastic place to start. Which do you think you’ll try first?