Raisin

Introduction

Raisins are easy to pack, easy to eat and almost never go bad. Raisins could be considered one of the world’s first snack foods. Indeed historians tell us that people picked grapes more than 3,000 years ago and spread them out in the sun to dry, a process that is still prevalent to this day.

What are Raisins?

Raisins are sun dried or oven dried dehydrated grapes. Raisins are of the size of small pebbles, raisins have wrinkled skins surrounding chewy flesh that tastes like a burst of sugary sweetness. While the colors of raisins vary, they are generally a deep brown color, most of the times with hints of a purple hue. These rich color and robust flavor make raisins perfect for baking or eating. Owing to these characteristics raisins are more than often called nature’s candy.
The most popular types of raisins are Sultana, Malaga, Monukka, Zante Currant, Muscat and Thompson seedless.
Sun drying generally occurs in the vineyards in September: clusters of grapes are spread in an even layer on paper trays that lie on the ground in the rows between the vines.

During this period, raisin farmers are at the mercy of Mother Nature. If it rains, the entire crop can be lost to mold. If the sun shines, the grapes gradually wither and dehydrate over a period of about three weeks. The fruit’s natural sugars become concentrated and the grapes turn brown and meaty as they dry in the heat and sun. Despite the marvels of modern technology, no one has yet to find a better method than sun drying.

Etymological Background

The word ‘Raisins’ originated during the Middle English Period which was derivided from the old French ‘raisin’ meaning grape which in turn was a development on the Latin racemus meaning a bunch of grapes. The origin of the Latin word is unclear.

Historical Background

The practice of drying grapes into raisins has been known since the ancient times. Raisins are known to have been produced in Persia and Egypt as early as 2,000 BC, with one of their earliest mentions being in the Old Testament.

Archaeological evidence from the prehistoric times prove this assumption correct that they were not only consumed but also used for decorations as murals in the Mediterranean region of Europe. They were highly prized by the ancient Romans, who adorned their places of worships with them and used them as barter currency and as prizes for the winners of sporting events. In addition, raisins were an integral item on the menus at Bacchanalian feasts. From ancient Rome, the practice of drying grapes into raisins subsequently spread throughout the world.

At present the largest commercial producers of raisins are California, Australia, Turkey, Greece, Iran and Chile.

Selection and Storage of Raisins

Preferably one should buy raisins that sold in bulk or in transparent containers so that one can judge their quality, checking to see that they are moist and undamaged. One should go for soft, plump looking raisins. Usually an unopened package of raisins has several months of shelf life and the best part is that they will keep indefinitely in the refrigerator or freezer.

Once raisins are opened one must store them in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. Air in the container can rob the raisins of moisture, and can lead to prompt sugar crystallization on the fruit’s surface. If your raisins dry out, revitalize them by steaming them over boiling water for a few minutes.

The Nutritional Value Of Raisins

Raisins are the best source of quick energy, as they contain 70 percent pure fructose, which gets digested by the body easily and gives instant energy.
The Nutritional Value Of Raisins
Raisins are dried grapes and they are a good source of:

fibre,
potassium,
iron,
calcium,
and some B vitamins.

Other Health Benefits

fat free,
cholesterol free,
rich source of antioxidants,
low in sodium,
contain natural sugar (fructose), and
no preservatives are used to keep them fresh.

Other Benefits

Having antioxidant properties, raisins help keep the blood clean and flowing, by getting rid of al the impurities
Raisins are believed to be good for bone density and have been associated with lower risk of osteoporosis in women
The phytonutrients and olenolic acid present in raisins makes them beneficial for the health of teeth and gums
Raisins are good for eyes and have been found to be helpful in prevention of macular degeneration
Being high in calories, but not fats, raisins are a very good source of energy, especially for children and athlete
Raisins are a good source of fiber and can help cure constipation. For the purpose, boil raisins in a saucepan of water, strain the liquid and drink it
Studies claim that raisins contain additional nutritive compounds that can protect against heart disease and colon cancer.

Some Quick Serving Tips

Raisins are a great addition to homemade granola or can be sprinkled over any breakfast cereal, hot or cold
Raisins go well in most baked goods. Add them to bread, muffins and cookies
Add raisins, almonds, peppers and onions to brown rice to make a tasty side dish
Raisins’ sweetness and texture make them a great addition to poultry stuffing
Mix raisins with your favorite nuts for a high-energy, protein and fiber-packed homemade snack or trail mix.