While strawberries and raspberries often steal the limelight, the humble blackcurrant deserves its moment to shine. From its deep, tangy flavour to its impressive nutritional benefits, the blackcurrant is truly a national treasure.
A Brief History of the Blackcurrant in Britain
Blackcurrants have long been part of British gardens and countryside hedgerows. During the Second World War, when citrus fruits were hard to import, the UK government promoted blackcurrants as a rich source of vitamin C.
Many of us will fondly remember the sweet, rich taste of blackcurrant cordial, particularly the iconic Ribena, launched in 1938 and fortified with vitamin C. And still going strong nearly 90 years later!
Today, the UK produces around 90% of the world’s blackcurrant crop, most of it still destined for juice and cordial, though awareness of its culinary versatility is growing.
Why Celebrate Blackcurrants?
1. Nutritional Powerhouse
Blackcurrants are packed with vitamin C, more than three times the amount found in oranges, and are also rich in antioxidants, fibre, and anthocyanins, which give them their deep purple hue. These compounds support immune health, heart function, and may even help fight inflammation.
2. A Taste Like No Other
With their tart, tangy flavour and dark richness, blackcurrants are unique among berries. They lend themselves beautifully to jams, sauces, desserts, and even savoury dishes.
3. A True British Crop
Over 3,500 acres of UK farmland are dedicated to growing blackcurrants. The berries thrive in Britain’s cooler climate, and growers have worked closely with scientists to develop hardy, flavourful varieties.
How to Celebrate National Blackcurrant Day
Cook with blackcurrants: Bake a blackcurrant crumble, add them to a pavlova, or simmer them into a tangy sauce for pork or lamb.
Sip the flavour: Enjoy a glass of traditional blackcurrant cordial, or mix up a blackcurrant gin cocktail.
Visit a pick-your-own farm: July is the peak season for fresh blackcurrants, perfect for a summer’s day out.
Support local producers: Look for artisan jams, juices, and preserves that use British-grown blackcurrants.
Get the kids involved: Make homemade blackcurrant lollies or add them to yoghurt for a healthy treat.
Blackcurrants in Popular Culture
Blackcurrants have long been a staple of British food culture. While Ribena is perhaps the most famous blackcurrant product, you’ll also find the flavour in everything from fruit gums to herbal teas.
Interestingly, blackcurrants were banned in the United States for decades due to concerns they helped spread a tree disease affecting the timber industry. Though the ban has now been lifted in many states, they remain far less common across the pond, making them all the more uniquely British.
A Berry to Be Proud Of
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to this deeply British berry, National Blackcurrant Day is the perfect time to rediscover its charms. Tangy, nutritious, and steeped in history, the blackcurrant is more than worthy of celebration.
So why not pick up a punnet, pour a cordial, or pop a blackcurrant sweet, and raise a toast to one of the UK's finest fruits?
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