Coconut Agar Agar Jelly Recipe

Gather ’round, foodies, because I’m about to spill the coconutty tea on how to whip up a simple yet fabulous coconut agar agar jelly that will have you feeling like a dessert wizard in the kitchen!

I love experimenting with simple yet delightful desserts, and this Coconut Agar Agar Jelly is a personal favorite. The combination of creamy coconut milk intensified with a hint of pandan or vanilla offers an indulgent treat.

With its low-calorie agar agar base, it’s both a refreshing and guilt-free choice.

Coconut Agar Agar Jelly Recipe Ingredients

• Agar agar powder: A vegan gelatin substitute rich in fiber, used for gelling and setting desserts.
• Coconut milk: Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor, contains healthy fats and nutrients.
• Granulated sugar: Main sweetener, provides easily digestible carbohydrates for energy.
• Pandan juice or vanilla extract: Optional flavor enhancers, pandan offers unique aroma while vanilla adds sweetness.

Coconut Agar Agar Jelly Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 packet (about 7g) agar agar powder
• 400ml coconut milk
• 200ml water
• 100g granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1 tablespoon pandan juice or vanilla extract for flavor

How to Make this Coconut Agar Agar Jelly Recipe

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the agar agar powder with the water. Stir well to dissolve the powder completely.

2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring continuously to prevent any clumps.

3. Once the agar agar has dissolved, add the granulated sugar and salt. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

4. Reduce the heat to low and add the coconut milk to the saucepan, stirring to combine. Heat until the mixture is just about to boil.

5. If using pandan juice or vanilla extract for extra flavor, add it to the mixture and stir well.

6. Once the mixture is well combined, remove it from the heat.

7. Pour the mixture into a mold or shallow dish for setting.

8. Allow the jelly to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours or until fully set.

9. Once set, gently remove the jelly from the mold by running a knife around the edges.

10. Slice and serve the coconut agar agar jelly chilled. Enjoy!

Coconut Agar Agar Jelly Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Medium saucepan
2. Stirring spoon or spatula
3. Measuring spoons
4. Measuring cup
5. Knife
6. Mold or shallow dish for setting
7. Refrigerator

FAQ

• What is agar agar, and where can I find it? Agar agar is a plant-based gelatin substitute derived from seaweed. It is available in most health food stores, Asian markets, or online.
• Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk? Yes, you can substitute regular milk, but the flavor and richness of the jelly will differ from the original coconut version.
• How long does it take for the jelly to set? It typically takes about 1 to 2 hours for the jelly to fully set at room temperature. Chilling it in the refrigerator can speed up the process.
• Can I adjust the sweetness of the jelly? Absolutely! Feel free to add more or less sugar based on your preference.
• What can I use instead of pandan juice? You can substitute pandan juice with vanilla extract or leave it out altogether if you prefer a simpler coconut flavor.
• How should I store the coconut agar agar jelly? Store the jelly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to 4 days.
• Is this recipe vegan? Yes, as long as you use coconut milk and do not add any non-vegan toppings or flavorings, this recipe is suitable for a vegan diet.

Coconut Agar Agar Jelly Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Agar agar powder: Can be substituted with gelatin, though the texture may vary slightly. Use 1 tablespoon of gelatin powder for equivalent setting.
• Coconut milk: Substitute with almond milk or any other plant-based milk for a lighter flavor. Use the same quantity.
• Granulated sugar: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup as a natural alternative. Note that it might slightly change the color and taste of the jelly.
• Optional pandan juice or vanilla extract: Use almond extract or rose water for a different flavor profile in similar quantities.

Pro Tips

1. Dissolve Agar Agar Properly When mixing the agar agar powder with water, ensure it’s thoroughly dissolved before heating. Stir continuously to avoid clumps, which can affect the texture of the jelly.

2. Maintain Consistent Heat When bringing the mixture to a simmer, maintain a medium heat to dissolve the agar properly without boiling too rapidly, as this can affect the setting process.

3. Flavor Enhancement If using pandan juice or vanilla extract, consider adding a small amount first and tasting the mixture. Adjust according to preference to achieve the desired flavor intensity.

4. Mold Tips Lightly oil the mold or dish before pouring in the mixture. This can make it easier to release the jelly once set, ensuring smooth and intact pieces.

5. Texture Variation For a more interesting texture, try layering flavors. Pour half of the mixture without the flavoring into the mold and allow it to set partially. Then add the flavored half on top. This creates a two-toned jelly with visual and taste contrast.