Golden Raisins

Raisins are dried ripe grapes and have the same benefits as fresh grapes. They are classified based on type of the grapes, the drying method, and the authorized additives used, and they have different names. Raisins can be dried using conventional and industrial methods. In the conventional method, grapes are placed in a big tray and are dried in sunlight or shade naturally. In the industrial method, drying is done using sulfur vapor or immersion in Aqua Regia, or some other methods. Raisins originated in the Middle East.

Like other dried fruits they can be stored easily and you can use them all year round. They are very sweet and contain a high amount of natural sugar and energy. They can be used as a healthy snack or can be added to different cakes, sweets, and main dishes. They also can be used as a salad topping, mixed into oatmeal, in yogurt, and in granola or cereal. You can eat them with your tea instead of sugar. They contain fiber, iron, calcium, vitamins, and antioxidants.

We can call Raisins healthy innocent snakes of our childhood. But golden raisins are far superior to their brown Sultana counterparts. They are fruitier and taste better. While regular brown raisins can be dry, grainy, and overly sweet, golden raisins have a more natural flavor and are soft.

Golden raisins and regular raisins are not, as we had assumed, made from different types of grapes. Almost all golden and brown raisins are made from green Thompson Seedless grapes. The difference in color between golden raisins and regular raisins comes from the way they are dried.

To make Sultana Raisins grapes are usually laid on paper and sun-dried for about three weeks, which causes browning. The browning reaction is accelerated by higher temperatures. So, the higher the temperature, the browner the raisins.

Unlike brown Sultana Raisins, Golden Raisins are not dried in the sun. In conventional methods, the grapes are laid in shade (instead of sunlight). In the industrial method, they are produced in large dehydrators at controlled temperatures, with controlled humidity levels. The result is a much fruitier, lighter flavor. The extra plumpness and juiciness of golden raisins likely come from this temperature and humidity control as well. Golden raisins are moderately healthier, too.