International Cuisine > Chinese Cuisine > Desserts (Chinese) > Almond Jelly Recipe

Classic Chinese Almond Jelly

A refreshing and subtly sweet Chinese dessert. This almond jelly, or almond tofu, is surprisingly easy to make at home with simple ingredients. Serve chilled for a delightful treat. Perfect for ending a delicious meal or as a light snack. <br><br>This recipe provides step-by-step instructions to ensure a smooth and flavorful almond jelly every time.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 1.5 teaspoons Almond Extract
  • 1.5 tablespoons Agar-Agar Powder
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 3 cups Milk
  • 1 cup Water
  • as needed Optional Toppings
  • as needed Fresh Fruit (like mango, lychee)
  • as needed Sweetened Condensed Milk

Preparing the Agar-Agar Mixture

In a saucepan, combine the agar-agar powder and water. Whisk well to ensure there are no lumps. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the agar-agar to soften.

Cooking the Agar-Agar

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until the agar-agar is completely dissolved. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure there are no visible particles of agar-agar remaining. If you see any, continue stirring until they disappear.

Adding the Milk and Sugar

Once the agar-agar is fully dissolved, add the milk and sugar to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Heat the mixture until it is warm, but do not boil. Boiling can affect the texture of the jelly. Keep stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Adding the Almond Extract

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the almond extract. Be careful not to add too much, as it can overpower the other flavors. Adjust the amount to your preference. A little goes a long way.

Pouring and Setting the Jelly

Pour the mixture into a mold or individual serving dishes. Let it cool slightly at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until the jelly is completely set. The jelly should be firm to the touch.

Serving the Almond Jelly

Once the jelly is set, unmold it (if using a mold) and slice it into cubes or desired shapes. Serve chilled with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit (mango, lychee, etc.) and a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk. Other popular toppings include fruit cocktail or a light syrup.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per 100g of product)

Calories: Approximately 80-100 kcal <br> Protein: 2-3g <br> Fat: 2-4g <br> Carbohydrates: 12-15g <br> (Note: These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used).

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

This dessert is relatively low in calories and fat. However, the sugar content should be considered, especially for individuals managing blood sugar levels. Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. Adding fruit toppings can increase the nutritional value. Individuals with almond allergies should avoid this recipe. Agar-agar is a vegetarian alternative to gelatin and is derived from seaweed.

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FAQ

  • Can I use gelatin instead of agar-agar?

    Yes, you can substitute gelatin for agar-agar. Use about 1 tablespoon of gelatin powder for this recipe. Bloom the gelatin in cold water before adding it to the warm milk mixture.
  • How do I prevent the jelly from being too rubbery?

    Avoid using too much agar-agar. Measure accurately. Also, do not boil the mixture for too long after adding the agar-agar, as this can also make it rubbery.
  • Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?

    Yes, you can use almond milk, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the jelly. The almond flavor might be more pronounced. Use unsweetened almond milk to control the sweetness.
  • How long does almond jelly last in the refrigerator?

    Almond jelly can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.