I was baking a batch of my grandmother’s famous currant scones for the family when I discovered that we didn’t have any more currants.
And I just couldn’t afford to go without it.
My scones would be nothing without the tart, juicy flavor of currants. And I couldn’t go to the store, so I had to get creative.
I remembered reading about substitutes for currants, so I decided to give it a try. But I failed on my first attempt. It took me a number of tries to finally taste success.
My biggest worry was that the scones wouldn’t taste the same. But with each try, I got better at telling what substitute worked in what recipe and what ratio was needed.
Soon, the substitutes made the scones even better than the original.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, RELAX!
There are plenty of substitutes for currants that will work just as well. Here is a list of my favorite substitutes:
Substitutes For Currants
- Raisins
- Dried Cherries
- Dried Dates
- Cranberries
- Dried Prunes
- Jujube
- Dried Apricots
- Dried Blueberries
- Gooseberries
- Dried Plums
- Kumquat
Raisins
Raisins may be little more than dried grapes that don’t taste like grapes. Originally from Persia, these wrinkly fruits have been enjoyed for centuries. And can be used as a substitute for currants in many recipes.
Why? They’re an easy way to add sweetness (and fiber) to recipes. They come in several varieties, including seedless, golden, and black. You can use any type of raisin as a replacement for currants, though black raisins may be the closest match in terms of color.
Raisins are a great replacement for currants in baked goods and savory dishes. You can add them to a variety of recipes, including cakes, cookies, pies, bread, and salads.
They bring a sweet and fruity flavor to meaty dishes like a rack of lamb or pork tenderloin. Raisins are also a good source of fiber, iron, and antioxidants.
They are actually the most popular currant substitutes. When substituting raisins for currants, use a 1:1 ratio.
Dried Cherries
These originate from Turkey and are made by drying sweet cherry varieties in the sun or in an oven.
They have a high sugar content and are often used as a natural sweetener in recipes. Dried cherries are a healthy way to add sweetness to your dish.
You can substitute them for currants in baked goods, cereals, jams, jellies, and preserves. They can also be used as a topping for yogurt, homemade granola, oatmeal, or ice cream.
When substituting dried cherries for currants, use a 1:1 ratio.
You might want to try this alternative because they are a good source of fiber and antioxidants. They have also been shown to improve digestion and reduce inflammation. Dried cherries can be found in the dried fruit section of most grocery stores.
Dried Dates
Dried dates are native to Morocco and can be used as a replacement because they have a similar sweetness and a chewy texture.
They are a great substitution in recipes that call for currants because of their nutrient-rich properties.
Dried dates not only provide sweetness to recipes but they are also fat-free and contain no cholesterol.
They are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help regulate digestion, and they also contain vitamins and minerals such as potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium.
Because of their high nutritional value, they make an excellent substitute for currants in recipes.
You can use them in baking – their velvety chocolate and rich caramel flavor go well with cinnamon or vanilla – as a topping on cereal or oatmeal, in jams, sweet sauces, and syrups, or even as a healthy snack.
Dates have a long shelf life and can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to six months. When substituting dried dates for currants, use a 1:1 ratio.
Cranberries
Cranberries are a tart and tangy fruit that can add a unique flavor to any dish. Though they are commonly associated with holiday recipes, i.e., Thanksgiving, cranberries can be used as a substitute for currants in a variety of both sweet and savory dishes.
Did you know that cranberries are native to North America, and were first used by Native Americans as both a food and medicine? Little wonder, they are the healthiest substitute for currants.
They have numerous health benefits, including being high in antioxidants and Vitamin C. Cranberries can also help to prevent urinary tract infections.
When using them as substitutes for currants, keep in mind that the finished product will be slightly more tart than if you had used currants. So, it is important to cook the cranberries first in order to soften their tart flavor.
However, this substitution can add an extra dimension of flavor to your dish. Cranberries can be added to pies, cakes, muffins, sauces, jams, and even savory dishes such as stuffing or pork roast.
Dried Prunes
Dried prunes are a great substitute for currants. For one, they have a similar origin. Both fruits come from the plum tree, and they’re both dried before they’re used in cooking.
They also offer some health benefits, for example, prunes are a good source of fiber, and potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Additionally, prunes have a low glycemic index, meaning they won’t cause spikes in your blood sugar levels.
Dried prunes can be easily added to baked goods and other recipes that call for currants. You can also use them in broths, soups, jam, jelly, pudding, muffins, and so on.
When substituting dried prunes for currants, it is important to use the right ratio. For every cup of currants called for in a recipe, use 1/2 cup of dry-packed pitted prunes.
Jujube
Jujube, also known as Chinese date, is a fruit that originally came from Asia.
It has a lot of health benefits such as being high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Jujube can also help boost your immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties.
You may use it in pies, jams, sauces, and other desserts. It can also be added to savory dishes like stews and soups. And can be used for stuffing or gravy.
Jujube is juicier and has a higher sugar content than currants, making it a perfect substitution in pies and other desserts. It can be eaten in so many different ways – fresh, dried, or canned.
It is a good source of vitamins C and A, as well as iron and potassium.
Dried Apricots
Dried apricots are a great substitute for currants! I started using this substitute when I lived in California and couldn’t find fresh currants (they’re not native to the state).
I found them a perfect alternative because they have a similar texture and sweetness. You can use them in any recipe that calls for currants, and they’re especially good in baked goods.
They are also a healthy choice because they’re high in fiber and antioxidants.
Dried apricots, which originated from the Armeniaca Vulgaris tree and are native to Asia Minor, have a divinely sweet taste with a hint of tartness.
They are perfect for adding flavor to baked goods, trail mix, and granola. Dried apricots are a good source of fiber, potassium, and iron.
If you want to add extra sweetness to your dish, soak the dried apricots in boiling water for 10 minutes before adding them to the recipe.
Blueberries
Blueberries are not only a delicious fruit, but they are also a versatile ingredient.
Originally native to North America, blueberries can be used in sweet and savory dishes alike. They can be added to cereal or oatmeal for a pop of sweetness and acidity, or substituted for currants in baking.
The color works perfectly as a black currant substitute. They can also be used as a healthy replacement for sugary syrups when making pancakes or waffles.
When substituting blueberries for currants, use a 1:1 ratio. Just remember that because blueberries are larger than currants, you may need to use fewer of them to achieve the desired flavor.
Blueberries are not only a delicious and versatile fruit, but they also offer some impressive health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. In addition, blueberries are a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
So next time you’re looking for a healthy way to add sweetness to your diet, reach for some blueberries. You’ll be glad you did!
Gooseberries
Gooseberries are a tart and tangy fruit that can be used as a substitute for currants in many recipes.
Though they are not as widely known as their red or black counterparts, gooseberries have been grown in Europe for centuries.
In addition to being a delicious ingredient in pies and jams, they are also rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
You can substitute gooseberries for currants in savory dishes, casseroles, and pies. When added to desserts, they bring a lemony flavor. If you are using them to make jam or pudding, you might want to add a little sugar.
They can also be used as a replacement for raisins in cakes and cookies. For best results, use gooseberries that are plump and slightly soft to the touch. They have this zesty flavor that you’d like.
As with any fruit, gooseberries can go bad if they are not stored properly. Be sure to keep them refrigerated and use them within a few days of purchase.
Dried Plums
Dried plums, also known as prunes, are a type of dried fruit that has been around for centuries. Originally from Europe, prunes were traditionally used in baking and cooking.
And they have long been used as a substitute for currants. The origin of this practice is unknown, but it is likely that the similarities in appearance and taste between the two fruits made dried plums an ideal replacement.
They can be used as a substitute for currants in many recipes, including pies, cakes, and jams. The ratio of dried plum to currant will vary depending on the recipe.
Dried plums are larger than currants, so you may need to use fewer of them. They are also sweeter than currants, so you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in your recipe.
Dried plums are a good source of fiber, minerals, and vitamins A and C. In addition, they contain phenolic acids, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Finally, they are widely accessible, and an excellent low-carb substitute for currants.
Kumquat
Kumquats are a type of citrus fruit that is often used as substitutes for currants. They are native to Southeast Asia and have been used in Asian cuisine for centuries.
Kumquats are also a popular ingredient in marmalades, jams, and jellies. The reason they make such good substitutes for currants is that they have a similar tartness and sweetness.
The skin is sweet when ripe, and the fruit is easy to grow in garden pots and is a great substitute in recipes that call for sweetness and tanginess.
When paired with honey, mint, or chocolate, the taste is heavenly! You can add them to fruit salad or serve them with cheese. But remember to add a little more sugar to balance out the tartiness.
Kumquats can be substituted for currants in any recipe. Also, they are a good source of vitamin C and fiber. They also contain potassium, calcium, and iron. They’ll provide you with multiple health benefits including improving digestion, boosting immunity, and preventing cancer.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
What do dried currants taste like?
Dried currants have a sweet and tart flavor. They taste like a cross between a raisin and a grape.
Can I use frozen currants instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen currants instead of fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw them before using them.
Do currants have to be cooked?
No, currants do not have to be cooked. However, they can be added to pies and jams for a more intense flavor. Cooking them will also make them softer and easier to eat.
What is the difference between black currants and red currants?
The main difference between black currants and red currants is the color. Black currants are black, while red currants are red. Both types of currants have a tart and sweet flavor.
Are kumquats and mandarins the same?
No, kumquats and mandarins are not the same. Kumquats are a type of citrus fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. Mandarins are a type of citrus fruit that is native to China. Both fruits have a sweet and tart flavor, but kumquats are slightly more tart than mandarins.
Do currants have seeds?
Yes, currants have seeds. Each currant contains about five seeds. Currant seeds are edible, but they can be a bit bitter.
What is the difference between currants and raisins?
The main difference between currants and raisins is that currants are fresh grapes that have been dried, while raisins are made from dried grapes. Currants have a tart and sweet flavor, while raisins are mostly sweet.
How do I store currants?
Currants can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them for up to six months.
Are dried currants nutritious?
Yes, dried currants are a good source of vitamins C and K. They also contain fiber, potassium, and manganese. Currants have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
What is a substitute for currant jelly?
A substitute for currant jelly is any type of fruit jelly. Cherry, grape, or raspberry jelly are all good substitutes.
What can I substitute for currants in baking?
The best substitutes for currants in baking are raisins, dried cranberries, or dates.