Forget everything you thought you knew about jelly. This isn't your grandma's quivering dessert; this is crispy jelly – a revolutionary treat that boasts a unique textural contrast of a wonderfully chewy exterior and a delightfully jiggly interior. Imagine biting into a piece that offers both a satisfying crunch and a burst of fruity sweetness. This isn't some complicated culinary feat; with readily available ingredients and a few simple techniques, you can achieve this surprisingly easy-to-make marvel. The secret lies in a clever preparation method that creates a thin, almost brittle shell around a perfectly set jelly center.
This recipe unlocks the secret to making crispy jelly, transforming a classic dessert into a truly innovative and unforgettable experience. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful twist on a timeless favorite. Ready to learn how to create this delicious confection? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Blender
- Refrigerator
- Glass cups
- Pot
- Stove
- Molds (optional)
- Syringe (optional)
- Oven or dryer (optional)
- Jar
Ingredients
- Pandan leaves: 50 grams
- Water: 400 ml
- Pineapple
- Dried Gardenia fruit: 5-7 fruits
- Cold water (for soaking gardenia): 150 ml
- Dried pumpkin flower: mushroom-sized piece
- Crispy jelly powder: 50 grams
- Sugar: 750-800 grams
- Water (for jelly): 900 ml
- Salt: a little
- Vanilla extract: a few drops or one tube
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Flavored Waters and Jelly Base
- Blend 50 grams of pandan leaves with 400 ml of water. Let it rest in the refrigerator for 2 hours to extract the essence. Drain and discard the clear water, keeping only the concentrated green liquid.
- Soak 5-7 dried gardenia fruits in 150 ml of cold water for about 1 hour. Extract the yellow-colored water, discarding the seeds.
- Steep a mushroom-sized piece of dried pumpkin flower in 100-150 ml of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to extract the color.
- In a pot, mix 900 ml of water, 50 grams of crispy jelly powder, 750-800 grams of sugar, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract.
- Allow the mixture to sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour (or longer for a richer flavor).
Step 2. Cook and Color the Jelly
- Cook the mixture over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jelly is cooked and expanded.
- Divide the cooked jelly into separate bowls. Add the pandan, gardenia, and pumpkin flower extracts to each bowl, mixing until you achieve the desired color.
Step 3. Set and Layer the Jelly
- Use silicone molds, small cups, or a large container for setting the jelly.
- Using a syringe or spoon, carefully layer the colored jellies into the molds. For a marbled effect, inject different colors side by side.
Step 4. Dry the Jelly to Achieve Crispiness
- Place the filled molds in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes to maintain heat while setting. Dry the jelly for 4-5 days, turning halfway, in a sunny spot or a low-temperature oven (50°C) until completely dry and crispy on the outside.
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Use natural food coloring for a healthier option. Other options include beetroot for pink/red and purple leaves for purple.
- For a quicker drying process, use an oven or dehydrator at a low temperature.
- Regularly flip the jelly during drying to ensure even drying and prevent sticking.
- The jelly should be crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.
- Store in an airtight container once completely dry; it will last for about a month.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Why is my crispy jelly not crispy?
This usually happens if your jelly wasn't cooked long enough to properly set, or if the cooling process wasn't slow enough. Ensure your jelly reaches a firm set before attempting to crisp it. Allow it to cool completely undisturbed.
2. Can I use any type of fruit for crispy jelly?
While most fruits work, those higher in pectin (like apples, citrus fruits) result in a firmer set, crucial for the crispy texture. Lower-pectin fruits may require pectin powder to achieve the desired consistency.
With this recipe, you've unlocked the secret to creating a truly unique and delightful dessert. Your homemade crispy jelly is sure to impress, offering a delightful textural experience that elevates the classic jelly to new heights. Now go forth and enjoy the fruits (and the satisfying crunch!) of your labor!