Native to Europe, currants are either black or red berries commonly known for their use in jellies and jams. Currant jelly is deliciously sweet and tart and found in a range of cuisines. It's less common in the United States, but several substitutes can fill in.
Baking and Recipes
For baking recipes that call for currant jelly, substitute Concord grape jelly or apple jelly. A dash of lemon juice adds a little tartness. You can also substitute seedless raspberry jelly or cranberry sauce. For black currant jelly, use seedless blackberry jelly.
Currants With Lamb
In traditional British cuisine, currant jelly is often served with lamb dishes. Sub in pomegranate molasses when glazing the meat and offer cranberry sauce as a condiment.
References
Writer Bio
Lori A. Selke has been a professional writer and editor for more than 15 years, touching on topics ranging from LGBT issues to sexuality and sexual health, parenting, alternative health, travel, and food and cooking. Her work has appeared in Curve Magazine, Girlfriends, Libido, The Children's Advocate, Decider.com, The SF Weekly, EthicalFoods.com and GoMag.com.