Agrest (Grossularia)
Gooseberries are one of the most popular berries. The Great Universal Encyclopedia states, that the number of gooseberry bushes in Poland amounted to a year 1960 about 4 million. Gooseberries are easy to grow, it withstands Polish winters perfectly and is therefore widely cultivated. In the wild, it grows almost all over Europe, but the first ennobled, large-fruited varieties were obtained only in the 16th century.
Gooseberries contain a lot of vitamin C., carotene and some vitamin B1. The rich mineral composition draws attention to the significant content of magnesium, which is valuable for the body (greater in ripe fruit) and potassium. However, the presence of oxalic acid makes it, that people suffering from kidney stones should refrain from eating gooseberries.
Gooseberries are used to make very tasty and refreshing compotes as well (from not completely ripe berries) jams, preserves and jellies (green gooseberries contain a lot of pectin). Lovers of home-made cakes highly appreciate the shortcrust pastry and shortbread cookies layered with gooseberry jam (or jam). Also gooseberry wine has many fans and is one of the most popular, next to the currant, home wines.