Can you freeze blackcurrants?

samh_2

Hi,

We've just harvested our blackcurrant crop and have tons! Even after distributing them to all our family and friends I still have a lot that I'd like to keep for jam-making, fruit salads etc. later in the year. Is it possible to freeze them whole, and if so should I just put them in a container or do I need to do something else to them?

Thanks for your help"
Sam

thriftlady_2

Blackcurrants freeze really well for later use in jam,or cooked puds.

If you want them to be free-flowing like a bag of frozen peas, then spread them out on a baking tray and freeze till hard,then bag up and pop back in the freezer.If you don't mind them in a big lump, then just put in bags or tubs and freeze.You don't need to cook them first.

If you like, you can cook them with sugar and sieve them to make a thick blackcurrant sauce for use in desserts like ice cream or to add to plain yogurt.You can then freeze the sauce.

samh_2

Thanks Thriftlady - the sauce is a great idea! I've just made some blackcurrant ice-cream (waiting to see how that turns out!) and am about to start some jam, followed by blackcurrant smoothies. This is our first crop so I'd be really grateful for any ideas on how to use them, particularly after they've been frozen as I think my lot will revolt if they get blackcurrants for every meal!!

Thanks
Sam

thriftlady_2

I think you've covered most of my ideas:)

Ermmm......blackcurrant crumble,pie,trifle,pavlova,cake (cream mixed with currants and used to fill a sponge), muffins,cordial (HM Ribena), or best of all add a spoonful of the blackcurrant sauce to a glass of white wine and have a HM kir - champagne for kir royale,this would probably be good with lemonade too;) HTH