Plant-based diets are well-served by vegan jelly, a delicious and adaptable dessert. Vegan jellies, unlike traditional jellies which use animal products, use plant-based gelling agents, providing a cruelty-free and healthier option. Vegan jelly is perfect whether you’re throwing a birthday bash, want a healthier treat, or are craving a childhood favorite. We’ll learn to make this delicious treat with easy ingredients and see how it benefits vegans.
Ingredients
To make your own vegan jelly, here are the basic ingredients:
- Water or alternatives like apple juice or coconut water.
- A plant-based gelling agent such as agar agar powder, derived from red algae or red seaweed. (use ½ teaspoon agar agar for every 1 cup of liquid)
- Fresh fruits, including berries or fruit chunks, for added natural sweetness and texture.
- Raw sugar or vegan-friendly sweetener like maple syrup.
- Optional: citric acid or ascorbic acid for a tangy touch, especially if using citrus fruit.
refer to recipe card for details.
Step by step instructions
- Combine water with agar agar powder in a pan. (do not add agar powder to hot water as it will coagulate straight away)
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the agar powder fully.Add your sweetener, such as sugar or maple syrup, and cook until combined.
3. Meanwhile arrange fresh fruits in small cups.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly to room temperature before pouring it over your arranged fresh fruit in a small cups.
Allow the jelly to set in the refrigerator until firm. Use a blunt knife to run around the edges and take the set mould out. Serve chilled for the best experience.
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Vegan jelly recipe
Equipment
- saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon agar agar powder
- 2 cups water
- 2-3 tablespoon sugar
- fresh cut fruits and berries
Instructions
Prepare the Agar & sugar mixture
- In a pan, combine water and agar-agar powder.
- Begin heating the pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once the water starts warming up, add the sugar.
- Stir and cook until the agar-agar powder and sugar dissolve completely.
Cool the Mixture
- Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly (but not set).
Arrange the Fruits,Pour & set
- Place your choice of fresh fruits into a bowl or mold.
- Pour the agar mixture evenly over the fruits.
- Allow it to cool to room temperature and set completely.
Serve
- Chill the jelly in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours.
- Serve cold and enjoy your refreshing vegan jelly!
Variations & Substitutions
- Fun Shapes: Pour the mixture into silicone molds to create shapes reminiscent of gummy bears or Hartley’s jelly cubes.
- Sweet Spreads: Experiment with making vegan jam or grape jelly for a spreadable version.
- Swap added sugars with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
- Use canned or frozen whole fruit if fresh options aren’t available.
FAQ
Traditional gelling agents, such as gelatin (derived from animal bones), are unsuitable for vegan products. Use plant-based options such as agar agar or red seaweed instead.
Refrigerate your jelly in an airtight container. For optimal freshness, consume within 3-5 days.
Yes! Sweeten your jelly naturally using stevia or the sweetness of real fruit.
The jelly should feel firm and retain its shape when touched.
Conclusion
Making vegan jelly is a fun, rewarding way to enjoy a classic dessert while being vegan. This jelly, made with simple ingredients and boasting endless flavor possibilities and health benefits, is sure to become a kitchen staple. This recipe provides delicious, guilt-free treats, whether for birthdays or exploring vegan options. It’s adaptable to any preference, so it’s a versatile addition to your plant-based diet.
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