Currants are seriously underrated! Thanks to modern varieties that are much sweeter and less tart than the old-school types, these berries are making a huge comeback in all sorts of recipes. One of my favorite ways to keep that summer flavor going all year long is by freezing them. It’s super easy, and they stay perfect for future treats.
Harvesting Your Berries the Right Way
Believe it or not, the secret to great frozen currants starts with how you pick them. You want to make sure they’re at peak ripeness and, more importantly, that they stay intact. This is key if you want beautiful, whole berries later on. Freezing is definitely one of the best ways to keep your harvest fresh for months.
Wait for a sunny day to head out to the garden. Instead of picking individual berries off the bush, use garden snips to cut the entire cluster (or “strig”). This keeps the delicate skins from tearing. You’ll sort through them later, but for now, keeping them on the stem is the best way to prevent bruising.
Cleaning Your Currants
Berries usually have a little bit of dust or garden debris on them, but don’t worry—it’s an easy fix. Just hold the entire cluster under a gentle stream of lukewarm water.
After rinsing, lay the clusters out on a towel to dry. Once they’re completely dry, you can gently strip the berries from the stems and sort through them. Toss out any that look a little mushy or aren’t quite ripe yet.
How to Freeze Like a Pro
To get that perfect “individual berry” freeze (so they don’t turn into one giant ice block), line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If you’re working with a tiny freezer, a large plate works too! Spread the berries out in a single layer so they aren’t touching. By the way, if you’re not in the mood to freeze, you can also dry them in the oven. Just follow the same layout, but pop them in the oven at 120°F (50°C) with the door propped slightly open.
For freezing, let them sit in the freezer for at least 24 hours until they’re rock solid. Then, quickly transfer them into freezer-safe containers or bags. Work fast so they don’t start to thaw! I actually like to use a spoon or wear gloves so the heat from my hands doesn’t melt them. Pop the container back in the freezer, and you’ve got a space-saving stash of summer fruit.
Using Your Frozen Berries
There are so many fun ways to use frozen currants. You can gently warm them up to spoon over ice cream or yogurt, or turn them into a lightning-fast sorbet. Just toss the frozen berries into a blender and pulse 2 or 3 times—just enough to break them down without melting them. Serve it immediately for a super refreshing summer snack.
Another pro tip? Use the frozen berries as “mini ice cubes” in your drinks. They look absolutely stunning in a glass of sparkling water or a cocktail, and as they melt, they release a subtle, fruity flavor. Enjoy!
