Black Raisins are also known as dried black grapes. Black raisins make an ideal low calorie snack. This kind is prepared by drying the fruit in full sun and results in a dark colour.
The versatile black raisin is as easy to use as natural raisins. Sweet, tasty and delicious, raisins are a great snack just as they are or can add flavour to almost any favourite recipe.
Try mixing these delicious sun-dried nuggets with nuts and other dried fruits for a naturally good trail mix.
It's easy to add raisins to salads. Liberally sprinkle raisins over your next green salad to add a new texture and taste appeal or toss sliced apples, walnuts and raisins together for a classic salad.
Raisins are also a natural addition to your baked favourites. Add a touch of sunshine to breads, muffins, cookies, cakes, pies, tarts and puddings.
Well over 100 processed food items contain raisins - from granola bars - to yogurt - even tortillas!
Manufacturers like raisins because they can utilize them in many products naturally - without the use of preservatives - due to the high moisture levels and preservatives found naturally in raisins. Manufacturers also use raisins in place of sugar since they have their own natural sugar. So, next time you're in the grocery store, check your favourite products for raisins - and you'll probably find them on the ingredient label!
The health and nutritional benefits of sun-dried raisins range from the classic nutrients - such as natural sugars and potassium - to newly discovered antioxidant factors.
The natural sugars of raisins are a great source of energy and come packaged together with fibre and other nutrients.
Since raisins are high in potassium and low in sodium this makes them an ideal part of a heart healthy diet.