Raisins

Key facts Used raw or in cooking, raisins are produced in many parts of the world, including Europe, the Middle East, India and China. High in some antioxidants they lack the vitamin C content of fresh grapes but contain fructose, a naturally occuring sugar.

All year round

Raisin is quite a broad, generic term for a dried white grape. In the past most raisins would contain a few seeds because seedless grapes were uncommon. Now, raisins are usually seedless.

A delicious exception are Muscatel grape raisins, which are large and light, with some of the scented character of the fresh fruit and a tiny seed or two. Lexia raisins are an extra-large Muscatel raisin.

Related Recipes

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 Serves 12

Chocolate-crunch Torte with Pistachios and Sour Cherries

A winner for busy cooks - Delia describes this gorgeous, no-cook torte as the easiest chocolate recipe ever invented. So what are you waiting for?

 

 

 Makes 24

Raisin and Spice Crunchies

An easy and quick way to fill the biscuit tin...but they won't last long! If you haven't got this combination of fruit and nuts simply make up your own variations.

 

 

 Serves 4

Baked Apple Meringues with Orange-soaked Raisins

Who says dieters have to miss out? This wonderful low-fat dessert will please dieters and non-dieters alike and is a good way to achieve one of your five-a-day in the process!

 

 

 Serves 6

Caribbean Banana and Raisin Strudel

Rum-soaked fruit and bananas are combined in filo pastry for this wonderful strudel, which looks hugely impressive when served. Add some vanilla ice cream for a dessert to die for!

 

 

 Serves 6

Bread and Butter Pudding with Whisky-soaked Raisins

For any special occasion, give this traditional classic pud a luxurious twist with the addition of whisky-soaked raisins.