Raisin or dried grapes is one of the most common dried fruits around the world.
Despite its general publication, as a simple and multi -use component in the kitchen, the demand for purchase is doubled in the month of Ramadan, as it enters into the preparation of various varieties of Ramadan sweets and determination dishes, such as rice with its various recipes and chicken.
The origin of raisins
The history of the raisins dates back to about 2000 BC in ancient Egypt and the country of Persia, and it is referred to as a first time by chance when it was dried up on the chrome trees.
In the period between 900 and 120 BC, the Armenians and the ancient Phoenicians began to develop grape cultivation, where the Armenians established their vineyards around Persia (Iran, Turkey and Iraq), as these areas did not enjoy the ideal climate for grape cultivation and drying it only naturally, but was also close to Rome and Greece as the first commercial markets of raisins, as the Phoenicians began to establish vineyards in Greece and South Spain.
With its spread, raisins became one of the favorite foods in the peoples of the Mediterranean, and it was very popular in the ancient Greeks of its natural sweetness and nutritional value, and it was used in large quantities in ancient Rome to cook sauces and ovens and even in filling meat.
He played a role in the Roman religious and cultural practices, and was presented as lanes for the gods and decorating places of worship, and was awarded as prizes in sports events, and was used in barter, and the ancient doctors described him to treat many diseases, from breakfast poisoning to aging diseases.
Despite the popularity of raisins in many European countries, it did not reach northern Europe until the eleventh century, and with the improvement of trade and transportation methods during the Crusades, England got acquainted with the new spices transferred from the east, along with dried fruits and raisins that have become a common component in many of their recipes, whether salty or sweet.
In the late nineteenth century AD, grape cultivation began to spread abundantly in the US state of California, and the raisins industry began to flourish in the region until California today became one of the largest raisins producers in the world alongside Türkiye and Iran.
Food benefits of raisins
Not only is raisins that are delicious, but it is also nutritious, as it contains a high percentage of natural sugars, which makes it a wonderful energy reinforced, and according to a systematic review published by the American Library of Medicine in 2020, adding half a cup of raisins to the daily diet may be beneficial to public health, as raisins contain basic minerals such as iron, magnesium and calcium, as it helps to control the blood sugar level Long, blood pressure is reduced, and the study also indicated that antioxidants in raisins may help enhance cardiovascular function. These are some of its other benefits:
Raisins are a great source of fiber, as half a cup of raisins give you 3.3 grams of fiber, or up to 24 percent of your daily needs, and the fibers improve the digestion and enhance the feeling of satiety for a longer period.
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Antioxidant properties
Raisins contain a high percentage of antioxidants such as phenols and polyphenols that fight free radicals that harm the body and may lead to chronic diseases such as cancer, and also reduce inflammation and enhance brain function.
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Oral and dental health
A study published by (Nutrition) magazine indicated that raisins contain vegetable chemicals that can enhance teeth and gums by fighting bacteria in the mouth and leading to tooth decay.
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Rich in potassium
More potassium can be obtained in your diet by eating raisins, and according to American Institutes, potassium is an electrolyte that plays an important role in the muscle contracting, its simplification, the organization of the heartbeat and the fluid balance inside the body.
Raisin in the diet
Raisin enhances the taste of many dishes, as it gives natural sweetness to baked goods such as biscuits and cakes, and is used in filling and decorating sweets, and you can eat a single meal alone or added to yogurt or can be mixed with nuts and seeds to enhance energy during the day.
You can also sprinkle it to the salads to add a touch of sweetness or mix it with morning oatmeal, or add it to the juices as a natural place instead of refined sugar, as it adds a unique touch to salty dishes, such as biryani rice, couscous, meat soup and sauces.
Preparing raisins at home
Grapes usually dry under direct sunlight, but this process may take several days, so you can use the oven instead by washing the grapes well and getting rid of any stems in it and then put it on a baking tray lined with butter paper, leave it in the oven for 4 to 6 hours at a temperature of 225 degrees Fahrenheit, until it turns brown and dries, and leaves the raisins until it cools completely and then store Weeks.
Storing raisins
It is usually recommended to keep raisins in a tightly closed jar and put it in a cool, dry place, and it can be stored in the refrigerator to prolong its validity and keep it soft and delicious for a longer period.
It may be noted that the sugar is crystallized inside the raisins while storing it for a long time, which makes it seem rough, but this change does not mean that it is not used, as the sugar granules can be dissolved by soaking it in hot water.
Possible damage to raisins
Some types of raisins are treated with sulfur to maintain its color and prolong its validity, and sulfur can cause allergic reactions in some people.
During the drying process, raisins may also affect some rot, which means that it may not be appropriate for people with mold allergy, and diabetics should consult a doctor before including raisins in their diet.
(Tagstotranslate) Lifestyle (T) Ramadan 2025