Raisins

Packing Raisins
Raisins are packed in 1.33-ounce boxes or 15-ounce cartons. One pound of raisins yields 12.6 1/4-cup servings of dry fruit and 21.4 1/4-cup servings of cooked fruit.

Storing Raisins
Store opened raisins in the refrigerator. After opening, fold down the poly bag liner to help retain moisture. Opened packages of raisins should be used within 6 months.

Uses and Tips for Raisins

  • Raisins are ready to eat or may be added to sandwich fillings, rice dishes, stuffing, salads, hot or cold cereals, puddings, and baked items.
  • Raisins may be combined with peanuts, sunflower seeds, or granola to make a trail mix.
  • Raisins keep cookies and cakes moist. Chopped raisins impart a full flavor to baked goods. Add whole, sliced, or chopped raisins to muffins, breads, cookies, and other desserts.
  • Toss in fresh vegetable salads or pasta salads.

Nutrition Information for Raisins
Raisins are low in fat and sodium, but high in carbohydrates for a quick pick- me-up snack.

1/4 cup of dried uncooked raisins provides 1 serving from the fruit group of the Food Guide Pyramid.

Preparing and Cooking Raisins

  • For easier chopping of raisins, use an oiled knife or blade.
  • Raisins can be used dry. When the recipe calls for plumped raisins, cover the amount of raisins needed with very hop tap water and soak 2 to 5 minutes.
  • Flavor and nutrients are lost with longer soaking. Drain well before using.
  • Raisins freeze well and thaw quickly.

Thirteen Facts About Raisins

  1. Raisins are cholesterol-free
  2. Raisins are low in sodium
  3. Raisins are fat-free
  4. Raisins are a rich source of antioxidants
  5. Four pounds of fresh grapes produce one pound of raisins
  6. Raisin juice is a pure extract of raisins
  7. Raisin juice is a natural substitute for preservatives
  8. Raisins sweeten and color natural baking goods
  9. Raisin juice can be used as a sugar substitute
  10. Raisin paste is used in fillings for fine confections
  11. Raisin paste inhibits molds
  12. Raisin paste also extends shelf-life
  13. Raisins in all forms enhances flavor

Fun Raisin Trivia

Lorraine Collett Petersen – raisins. After being spotted drying her hair, Petersen was asked to be the subject of a painting. In the pose, she held a tray of grapes and wore her mother's bonnet. The northern Californian company that commissioned the painting was Sun-Maid. And Petersen's pose has been the basis of the enduring Sun-Maid Girl image since 1915.

Printable Recipe

Broccoli-Raisin Salad

See also:
Honey-Raisin Refrigerator Muffins
Cinnamon-Raisin Oatmeal
Post Raisin Bran Cereal Bars
Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits
Low Calorie Cinnamon Raisin Waffles
Wheat Free Kamut-Raisin Muffins
Gluten Free Carrot-Raisin Muffins

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