Golden raisins, a nature’s candy, have become a culinary sensation, attracting attention for their unique flavor and versatility. These amber-hued delights are more than just a tasty treat – they bring many health benefits.
Let’s start our journey together in knowing more about golden rains; let’s begin with it’s benefits:
1. The Health Benefits:
Golden raisins are a powerhouse of nutrients. Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and natural sugars, they provide a quick energy boost. They are also rich in iron, aiding blood circulation and preventing anemia. Incorporating golden raisins into your diet can promote overall well-being.
2. Taste and Appearance:
Known for their sweet and slightly tangy flavor, golden raisins add sweetness to both sweet and savory dishes. Originating from Persian and Mediterranean cuisines, these raisins are often found in Middle Eastern and Indian recipes. Their golden color and plump texture make them visually appealing, enhancing the aesthetic of any dish.
3. Versatile Culinary Uses:
The versatility of golden raisins extends beyond snacking. Add them to salads for a sweet contrast, mix them into your morning oatmeal, or incorporate them into couscous or rice dishes for a delightful twist. They also complement the flavors in poultry and lamb dishes, bringing a subtle sweetness to savory meals.
After we discover the hidden gem in each golden raisin, it’s time to know the tasty recipes to use in them for a healthy twist:
Five Delectable Recipes with Golden Raisins:**
Moroccan Chicken Tagine:
Quick tips for this recipe:
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 50 mins
- Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
- Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
Moroccan Spice Mix:
- ¼ cup ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons ground turmeric
- 2 tablespoons ground coriander
- 2 tablespoons ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons crushed dried mint
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
Tagine:
- ½ cup chopped dried apricots
- ¼ cup raisins
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- ¼ cup olive oil, or as needed
- ½ small onion, minced
- 2 teaspoons chopped garlic
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
Directions:
- Make the spice mix: Mix cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, coriander, ginger, mint, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Measure out 1/2 cup spice mix and set the remaining mix aside for another use.
- Make the tagine: Bring a small pot of water to a boil.
- Add apricots and raisins and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Drain, reserving 1/2 cup cooking water.
- Place chicken and 1/2 cup reserved spice mix into a bowl; toss until thoroughly coated.
- Pour enough olive oil into a large skillet or Dutch oven to coat the bottom; turn the heat medium.
- Cook chicken in the hot skillet until golden brown, and it releases easily from the skillet, 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Add onion and garlic; cook and stir until fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add apricots, raisins, and reserved 1/2 cup cooking water; stir in chicken broth and honey.
- Cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook until chicken is very tender, 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Serve chicken garnished with cilantro and almonds.
Apple Crumble with Golden Raisins
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chilled butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 ½ cups diced peeled Granny Smith apple
- 1 tablespoon golden raisins
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Cooking spray
Directions:
- Step 1
Preheat oven to 375°. - Step 2
Combine flour, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a medium bowl. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or 2 knives until the mixture resembles a coarse meal. - Step 3
Combine 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, apple, and the next 4 ingredients (apple through cinnamon), tossing well. Divide apple mixture evenly between 2 (6-ounce) ramekins coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle evenly with flour mixture. Bake at 375° for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Curried Quinoa Salad:
- 1 cup Quinoa
- 2 cups Water (err on the side of less than 2 cups, not more
- ½ cup Carrots (finely diced)
- ¼ cup Red Onion (finely chopped)
- ½ cup Flat-Leaf Parsley (minced)
- ½ cup Raisins
- ¼ cup Almonds (sliced)
- 2 Scallions (thinly sliced, white and green parts)
- ¼ cup Plain Yogurt
- ¼ cup Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon White Wine Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Curry Powder
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Turmeric
- ½ teaspoons Kosher Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (spooned & leveled)
- ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon Baking Soda
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- add cups of Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
- ½ cup Dark Brown Sugar (or packed light)
- ¼ cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 Large Egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup Raisins
Directions:
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°.
- Step 2: Combine flour, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a medium bowl. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or 2 knives until the mixture resembles a coarse meal.
- Step 3: Combine 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, apple, and the following 4 ingredients (apple through cinnamon), tossing well.
- Divide apple mixture evenly between 2 (6-ounce) ramekins coated with cooking spray.
- Sprinkle evenly with flour mixture. Bake at 375° for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Golden raisins are a versatile delight, enhancing sweet and savory dishes. Elevate your culinary creations with these golden gems. Abu Auf’s website offers premium golden raisins for those craving the golden touch. Order now and savor the sweetness in your unique way!