How To Make Kanten Jelly

User Reviews

5

24 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    5 mins

  • Additional Time

    30 mins

  • Total Time

    40 mins

  • Servings

    6

  • Calories

    16 kcal

  • Course

    Dessert

  • Cuisine

    Japanese

How To Make Kanten Jelly

Kanten Jelly is a gelatinous dessert made using agar powder, water, and sugar, set in a square pan for easy cutting into cubes. This Japanese-style jelly relies on agar, a plant-based gelatin substitute, which requires boiling to activate its setting properties. The result is a firm, slightly springy jelly that holds its shape well and can be flavored by adjusting the sugar quantity.

Description

How To Make Kanten Jelly involves combining agar powder with water and bringing the mixture to a hard boil to ensure the agar dissolves completely. After boiling, sugar is added and the mixture simmers briefly to incorporate sweetness. The hot liquid is then poured into an 8- x 8-inch baking dish, where it cools and solidifies in the refrigerator. Once set, the jelly is cut into small, uniform cubes roughly half an inch in size, making it convenient as a refreshing dessert or snack.

This jelly's texture is firm and clean, with a mild sweetness that can be tailored by adjusting the sugar amount. Unlike gelatin-based jellies, kanten jelly is firmer and does not become sticky when held at room temperature, making it suitable for various fruit or tea pairings.

Storing the kanten jelly in an airtight container in the refrigerator ensures freshness for up to three days. The recipe notes explain using powdered agar is easiest, with alternative forms like sticks requiring soaking and preparation steps. Substitutions for gelatin or agar are also provided with equivalent measurements for those adapting the recipe.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 tsp agar powder see Notes, aka kanten
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 Tbsp sugar (or more, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Gather all the ingredients. You will need an 8- x 8-inch (20- x 20-cm) baking dish, which is a perfect size to cut kanten jelly into nice cubes.
  2. Add 2 cups water and 2 tsp kanten (agar) powder in a small saucepan.
  3. Whisk the mixture together and bring it to a hard boil on medium-high heat, being careful not to let the liquid boil over.
  4. After the mixture has boiled and the kanten powder is dissolved, add 2 Tbsp sugar and cook on low heat for 2 minutes. Tip: If you add sugar before boiling, the kanten powder may not dissolve.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the stove and pour the mixture into an 8- x 8-inch (20 x 20-cm) baking dish. Allow it to cool and let the kanten set in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
  6. Cut into ½-inch (1.5-cm) cubes. Kanten Jelly is ready to serve.

To Store

  1. Keep the jelly in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Use powdered agar (kanten) for easiest measurement and best dissolution in boiling water.
  • If using kanten sticks, soak pieces in water for 30 minutes to help dissolve before boiling.
  • Adding sugar after boiling improves agar dissolution and jelly texture.
  • Kanten jelly can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Substitute gelatin or agar using provided measurement equivalences if needed.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 16kcal (1%) Carbohydrates 4g (1%) Protein 1g (2%) Sodium 1mg (0%) Potassium 1mg (0%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 4g (8%) Calcium 11mg (1%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 16 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 16kcal 1%
Carbohydrates 4g 1%
Protein 1g 2%
Sodium 1mg 0%
Potassium 1mg 0%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 4g 8%
Calcium 11mg 1%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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