What Do Black Currants Taste Like?

Black currants are small, dark, and glossy berries. Have you ever wondered why they have such a distinctive flavor?

You’re met with a unique blend of sweet and tart flavors when you bite into a black currant. It’s a bit like a dance of tastes on your tongue, starting with a slight sweetness that quickly gives way to a more robust tartness. The earthy undertones add depth to the overall flavor.

In the following guide, we’ll look closer at the taste of black currants. We’ll discuss what influences their flavor, their use in various dishes, and much more.

How Do Black Currants Taste?

Sweet and Tart

The first thing you’ll notice when you taste a black currant is the balance between sweetness and tartness. The sweetness isn’t overpowering and provides a nice counterpoint to the tartness. Conversely, the tartness is more pronounced, giving the black currants a refreshing quality.

Earthy Undertones

Beneath the initial sweet-tart taste, you’ll detect earthy undertones. This earthiness gives the black currants a depth of flavor that’s truly unique. It’s a robust and full-bodied taste, adding a complex layer to the overall flavor profile.

A Hint of Bitterness

Some people also notice a hint of bitterness in black currants. This bitterness is usually more noticeable in the aftertaste and adds another dimension to the flavor experience. This slight bitterness sets black currants apart from other berries and gives them their distinctive taste.

Juiciness

Black currants are incredibly juicy. When you bite into one, it bursts with flavor. This juiciness enhances the overall taste experience, making each bite a delightful flavor explosion.

Aroma

Their aroma also influences the taste of black currants. They have a distinctive, fruity aroma that’s quite strong and adds to the overall sensory experience. When you’re eating black currants, you’re not just tasting them; you’re also smelling them, and this aroma plays a big part in how we perceive their flavor.

Evaluating the Taste of Black Currants

When it comes to whether black currants taste good, you’ll need to consider the following.

• Tartness: The tartness of black currants can be surprising, especially if you’re expecting a sweet berry. While refreshing to some, this tartness might be a bit too much for others. Black currants might not be your favorite if you’re not a fan of tart flavors.
• Earthy Flavor: The earthy undertones of black currants are another aspect that could sway your opinion. Some people love this depth of flavor, while others might find it a bit overpowering.
• Bitter Aftertaste: The slight bitterness detected in the aftertaste of black currants is another factor to consider. While it adds complexity to the flavor profile, it might not be to everyone’s liking.
• Fresh vs. Frozen: Black currants can be enjoyed both fresh and frozen. However, the taste can vary slightly. Fresh black currants tend to have a more vibrant flavor, while frozen ones might lose some tartness.

What Do Black Currants Look Like?

Black currants are small, round berries that are, as their name suggests, a deep, dark black or sometimes a dark purple color. They’re about the size of a pea and have a glossy, almost shiny surface that makes them stand out among other fruits.

When you’re buying black currants at the grocery store, you’ll typically find them in clusters on a stem, similar to grapes. Each currant is distinct and separate, but they grow together in a bunch.

When choosing black currants, look for berries that are firm and plump. They should have a vibrant, dark color without any signs of shriveling or discoloration. Check for any signs of mold or damage, as these will affect the taste and quality of the berries.

Do Black Currants Have Seeds?

Yes, black currants do have seeds. In fact, each little berry contains multiple tiny seeds. These seeds are edible and usually consumed along with the fruit’s flesh.

The seeds of black currants are quite small and not particularly noticeable when you’re eating the fruit. They don’t have a strong flavor of their own, but they do contribute to the overall texture of the fruit.

When you bite into a black currant, the seeds add a slight crunch to contrast with the juiciness of the berry.

While the seeds are edible, it’s worth noting that they can sometimes add a hint of bitterness to the taste of the black currant. However, this bitterness is usually very subtle and is often overshadowed by the fruit’s stronger sweet and tart flavors.

So, when you’re enjoying black currants, there’s no need to worry about the seeds. They’re a natural part of the fruit and perfectly safe to eat.

How To Make Black Currants Taste Good

While black currants have a unique flavor that some people love, others might find them a bit too tart or earthy. If you’re in the latter group, don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to make black currants taste even better. Here are a few suggestions:

• Sweeten Them Up: One of the simplest ways to enhance the taste of black currants is to add a bit of sweetness. You can sprinkle them with sugar or drizzle them with honey. This can help balance out the tartness and bring out the fruit’s natural sweetness.
• Cook Them Down: Cooking black currants can help mellow their flavor. You can simmer with a bit of sugar to make a delicious compote or jam.
• Pair with Creamy Foods: The tartness of black currants pairs well with creamy foods. Add them to a bowl of creamy yogurt or mix them into a smoothie with banana and milk.
• Use in Baking: Black currants can be a great addition to baked goods. They can add flavor to muffins, scones, or pies. Just remember to balance their tartness with enough sweetness in your recipe.
• Make a Sauce: Black currant sauce can be a delicious accompaniment to meats, especially game meats like venison. The robust flavor of the currants can stand up to these strong-flavored meats.

With a bit of creativity, you can turn black currants into a tasty treat that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy.

Fruits That Taste Similar To Black Currants

Here’s a look at some fruits that have a taste somewhat akin to black currants:

• Red Currants: As a close relative, red currants share a similar flavor profile with black currants. They are also tart, but their tartness is often described as more refreshing and less earthy compared to black currants.
• Blackberries: Blackberries have a sweet-tart flavor that can be reminiscent of black currants. However, they lack the earthy undertones and the slight bitterness that you can find in black currants.
• Cranberries: Cranberries, especially when cooked and sweetened, can have a tartness similar to black currants. They too have a bit of an earthy flavor, although it’s not as pronounced as in black currants.
• Gooseberries: Gooseberries, particularly the darker varieties, can have a flavor similar to black currants. And some varieties have a slightly musky flavor that can be reminiscent of the earthiness in black currants.
• Elderberries: Elderberries, when fully ripe, can have a complex flavor that’s somewhat similar to black currants. They’re sweet and tart, with a bit of an earthy undertone.

Black Currants Recipes And Side Dishes

Black currants can be used in various recipes, from sweet to savory. Their unique flavor can add a burst of tartness and depth to many dishes. Here are some popular ways to use black currants in recipes and as side dishes.

Black Currants In Recipes

• Black Currant Jam: This is a classic way to use black currants. The tartness of the black currants is balanced with sugar, resulting in a sweet and tangy jam that’s perfect on toast or used in baking.
• Black Currant Pie: Similar to a blueberry pie, a black currant pie uses the tartness of the black currants to balance the sweetness of the pie filling. It’s a delicious twist on a classic dessert.
• Black Currant Sorbet: The tart flavor of black currants makes for a refreshing sorbet. It’s a great palate cleanser or a light dessert for a hot day.
• Black Currant Sauce for Meat: A savory black currant sauce can be a great accompaniment to meats, especially game meats like venison or duck. The tartness of the black currants can cut through the richness of the meat.

Side Dishes

• Black Currant Salad: Add black currants to a salad for a burst of tartness. They pair well with mixed greens, goat cheese, and a sweet vinaigrette.
• Black Currant Chutney: A black currant chutney can be a great side dish for grilled meats or cheeses. It’s a mix of sweet, tart, and savory flavors.
• Black Currant Compote for Cheese: A sweet and tart black currant compote can be a great accompaniment to a cheese board. It pairs particularly well with creamy cheeses like brie.
• Roasted Vegetables with Black Currants: Add a handful of black currants to your roasted vegetables for a burst of tartness. They pair well with root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes.

Black Currants FAQs