Agar Agar
A plant-based alternative to gelatin, Agar Agar is a Modernist ingredient made from seaweed that has extremely powerful gelling properties, even at room temperature. This vegan substance is tasteless, odorless and sets more firmly than gelatin. Great to keep when you don’t have time for a 4-hour reduction.
- Desserts
A plant-based alternative to gelatin, Agar Agar is a Modernist ingredient made from seaweed that has extremely powerful gelling properties, even at room temperature. This vegan substance is tasteless, odorless and sets more firmly than gelatin. Great to keep when you don’t have time for a 4-hour reduction.
- Desserts
Getting ingredients to gel just got easier.
Pro Tip
When you need that extra bit of stiffness in a dessert, spin a touch of Agar Agar into it for the sturdiness you need without altering the flavor.
Key Takeaways
- Powerful Gelling Agent – Agar Agar is a plant-based gelatin substitute derived from specific types of red algae, such as Gelidium and Gracilaria, making it a great thickening agent for a variety of recipes.
- Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly – Ideal for making vegan cheese, panna cotta, abd jellies
- Superior to Gelatin – Sets at higher temperatures and creates a firmer texture than traditional gelatin, perfect for pies, sauces, and soups.
- Versatile Culinary Use – Works well as a clarifying agent in food preparations and a stabilizer in ice cream, petri dishes, and baking.
- Easy to Use – Dissolves quickly when boiled and sets in just a few minutes, making it convenient for recipe developers and home chefs alike.
Why Choose Agar Agar Powder?
Agar Agar powder is a must-have for any kitchen experimenting with modernist cooking techniques. Made from marine red algae, this plant-based gelling agent provides a firm texture and can be used in everything from panna cotta to pie fillings. Unlike animal-based gelatin, it typically requires a ratio of about one teaspoon of agar powder to one cup of liquid to achieve perfect consistency, making it a go-to thickener for both professional chefs and home cooks.
With agar flakes or powder form, you can create jellies, custards, and desserts with a crystal-clear gel.
How to Use Agar Agar Powder
- Dissolve & Boil – Stir the agar powder into a liquid of your choice and bring to a boil for a few minutes to fully activate its gelling properties.
- Mix & Set – Once dissolved, mix with other ingredients and let it cool. Agar sets quickly at room temperature, unlike gelatin, which requires refrigeration.
- Experiment with Many Recipes – Use it in dairy-free ice cream, gelatin-based candies, and even savory applications like clarifying broths.
