FRESNO — “The story of California Raisins can be traced to the late 1800s when growers in the San Joaquin Valley began experimenting with drying grapes as a way to preserve their harvest. The first commercially successful raisin production was established in Fresno in 1873, and by the turn of the century, California was the largest producer of raisins in the world. Throughout the 20th century, California Raisins became an iconic symbol of the state’s agricultural heritage. In the 1980s, the California Raisins even became the stars of a popular animated television series, further cementing their place in American culture.”
The Friends of the Fresno Fair – Armenian Exhibit adds, “Some of the first Armenian raisin farmers in Fresno County include the Seropian Brothers, Stepan Shahamirian, and Melkon Markarian. Before the advent of commercial packing houses, farmers did their own basic packing and would ship their product by mule or train. Most of the raisins at that time were made from Muscat grapes. It was in the early 1920s that several Armenian-owned packing houses were established, including Lion Packing Company in Fresno (still operating today as Lion Raisins), Tusan Packing in Sanger, Enoch Packing in Del Rey, and Del Rey Packing (still being operated today by the Chooljian family). Armenian packers currently control over half the raisins produced in the United States.”
The California Raisins website states, “History indicates that raisins were discovered for the first time by accident when they were found in the dried form on vines as early as 2000 BC. Wall paintings from ancient times show that dried fruits were consumed and used as decorations in the Mediterranean regions of Europe. Historians tell us the ancient Phoenicians and Armenians took the first steps in perfecting viticulture, the process of grape growing and selection. The Phoenicians and Armenians then began to trade raisins with the Greeks and the Romans who consumed them in large quantities. As the popularity of the raisins grew, so did their value. They were given as prizes in sporting events, used as barter to trade, and used as a cure for what ails you.”
“California Raisins are 100% fruit and this fruit has many benefits that help to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Raisins are enjoyed worldwide and are a staple ingredient in many cuisines. They are not only used in sweet dishes like desserts and baked goods but also find their way into savory recipes, adding a unique depth of flavor. The history and origins of raisins have shaped their significance in culinary traditions, making them a versatile and beloved ingredient in cooking, like in this California Raisin and Pumpkin Spice Bread. And don’t forget the icing.”
Ingredients:
3 cups pastry flour