Combine yeast with water in a mixing bowl. Combine the rest of the ingredients except the currants & flour. Mix well. Add 1 1/2 c flour & mix. Stir in currants. Mix in the remaining 2 c of flour. Remove from bowl & knead, adding more flour as necessary. Knead for a few minutes until the dough is pliable. Return to mixing bowl, cover with a damp cloth & set aside until it has doubled.

Punch dough down, turn out onto a floured board, cover & let rest for 10 minutes. Divide the dough into 18 pieces. Roll into a ball & place on a greased baking sheet 1 1/2 inches apart. Flatten slightly. If you wish, using a sharp knife, cut out a cross in the top of each bun. Cover with a damp cloth & let rise till doubled.

Heat oven to 375F. Lightly brush the top of each bun with vegetable oil & bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden. Cool on wire racks.