Agar Agar Fruit Jelly (Printable)

Light vegan jelly with fresh fruits sets beautifully using plant-based agar agar powder.

# What You Need:

→ Jelly Base

01 - 2 cups water
02 - 1 1/2 teaspoons agar agar powder
03 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1/2 cup fruit juice (such as orange, apple, or mango)

→ Fresh Fruit

05 - 1/2 cup diced strawberries
06 - 1/2 cup diced kiwi
07 - 1/2 cup diced mango
08 - 1/2 cup diced pineapple
09 - 1/4 cup blueberries

# How To Make:

01 - Wash, peel, and dice strawberries, kiwi, mango, and pineapple into small, bite-sized pieces. Rinse blueberries and pat dry. Set aside.
02 - Combine water and agar agar powder in a medium saucepan. Whisk thoroughly to dissolve powder completely.
03 - Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes until agar agar fully dissolves.
04 - Stir in granulated sugar. Continue mixing until completely dissolved.
05 - Remove from heat. Add fruit juice and mix well. Allow mixture to cool for 2-3 minutes, ensuring it remains liquid.
06 - Distribute diced fruits evenly in silicone mold or glass dish. Ensure uniform layer for consistent presentation.
07 - Gently pour agar agar mixture over arranged fruits, ensuring all pieces are covered. Tap mold lightly to release air bubbles.
08 - Let jelly cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 45 minutes until fully set and firm.
09 - Unmold onto serving plate or cut into cubes. Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The texture is somewhere between delicate and satisfying, a wobble that feels sophisticated on the tongue.
  • You can prepare it in advance and it keeps beautifully for days, making it my go-to when guests are coming.
02 -
  • Fresh pineapple and kiwi contain enzymes that prevent agar from setting properly, so blanch them briefly before using.
  • Agar sets much firmer than gelatin, so if you prefer a softer texture, reduce the powder slightly.
03 -
  • Work quickly once the agar mixture is off the heat, as it begins setting as soon as it drops below body temperature.
  • Use clear glass molds if you want the fruit arrangement to be visible from all sides.