Agar jelly is a plant-based gelatin made from seaweed. It's known as agar-agar in its raw form and, in culinary contexts, is often simply called agar. This versatile ingredient acts as a stabilizing and thickening agent in various recipes.
Understanding Agar Jelly
Source of Agar
- Seaweed: Agar is extracted from seaweed, making it a vegan alternative to animal-based gelatin.
- Forms: It's available in several forms, including flakes, powder, bars, and strands.
Culinary Uses
- Stabilizer: Agar helps stabilize and maintain the structure of foods.
- Thickener: It can thicken liquids to create gels, puddings, and other desserts.
Key Differences from Gelatin
| Feature | Agar | Gelatin |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Seaweed | Animal collagen |
| Vegetarian | Yes | No |
| Texture | Firmer | More wobbly |
Practical Tips for Use
- Activation: To activate agar, it typically needs to be heated in a liquid.
- Dosage: Follow recipe instructions carefully, as agar's gelling strength differs from gelatin.
- Versatility: Use it in both sweet and savory dishes.
In short, agar jelly is a vegan and versatile plant-based gelling agent.
