What are the Different Kinds of Raisins?

Grapes have been grown and harvested as long ago as 2000 BC. It has been speculated that raisins were an accidental discovery resulting from grapes drying on the vine. Regardless of how their was discovered, their popularity has continued throughout the years. Today, there are several raisin varieties available. All are nutritionally beneficial, but some subtle differences make the varieties unique.

Good and Good For You

People enjoy California raisins so much that they are the most popular dried fruit in the United States. The climate in one specific region of California is ideal for growing and drying grapes. Black raisins are the most popular type of dried grape. They have a wonderfully sweet flavor, a slightly chewy texture, and are a highly nutritious food.

In the U.S., sultana raisins are called golden raisins. Thompson Seedless grapes are treated with sulfur dioxide that enables them to retain their light color during the drying process. Sultana raisins are small, sweet, and juicy. They have a slightly higher nutritional value than other varieties.

Colorful Raisins

Red raisins or flame raisins are dried flame seedless red grapes. They are plump, juicy, and larger than other types of dried grapes. Eating the red variety can help lower the risk of diabetes and promote teeth and eye health.

Green raisins are dried green, seedless grapes. Their flavor profile is a mix of sweetness and tanginess with an underlying hint of fruity flavor. It is often the green raisin that is used in Indian dishes and curries. It is also used in jams and jellies and baked desserts.

Sweet Treats

A raisin is a tasty, healthy treat on its own. However, it can be elevated from simply tasty to a superbly delicious treat when it receives a covering of chocolate or yogurt. Chocolate raisins and dark chocolate raisins are excellent mood-lifting treats. You get all the nutritional benefits of California raisins and the palatable pleasure of chocolate. Yogurt raisins can make snack time seem more indulgent and snack mixes more luxurious.