Raisins

 

Raisins bring back childhood memories for me.  My Mom used them a lot, from snacks to baking and even in salads and savoury dishes.  I especially remember her carrot coleslaw, topped with raisins, probably to trick us kids into eating more vegetables.  These sweet little gems are delicious and flavourful, providing natural sweetness along with vitamins, minerals and fiber.  They are a concentrated energy source of primarily sugar, so keeping portions modest is advisable.

For raisin inspiration check out these ideas.  I’ve teamed up with some terrific ladies to bring you some new ideas and remind you of some old favourites too.  I have updated my Mom’s coleslaw by adding super healthy kale, complete with kale massage to sweeten and tenderize it in my Kale Slaw with Apples, Carrots and Raisins.  For a super healthy whole grain salad try this Indian Style Lemony Quinoa and Chickpea Salad from The Tiffin Box where raisins add sweetness to compliment the light curry flavours.  It’s a delicious salad, I added 2 grated carrots, double the raisins and also chopped pecans.  Make Ahead Breakfast Cookies from Kitchen Frau and Raisin Bran Muffins from Within the Kitchen are perfect to have on hand for a grab and go breakfast or snack.  The cookies are substantial, filled with seeds, whole grain flours, and dried fruit including raisins to provide energy and sweetness. I made both of these recipes with less sugar than called for with perfect results. I also reduced the dried fruit in the Breakfast Cookies to 1 cup of each.

Recipes that work for breakfast, snacks or dessert are total wins for busy schedules.  Swirls and Spice created this terrific Carrot Spice Granola, where the cardamom adds a sophisticated flavour. It would make a wonderful Mother’s Day gift. Creamy and delicious, the Brown Rice Pudding from Our Fresh Kitchen is so comforting!  I subbed the rice with barley, which works equally well.

What are your favourite recipes with raisins?