Tips and Tricks to Gelatin Success – Kitchen Conundrums with Thomas Joseph
How to Use Agar as a Gelatin Substitution?
If you’re using agar powder instead of gelatin, then you can use the same amounts. However, if you’re using agar flakes, then use one tablespoon of agar flakes for each teaspoon of powdered gelatin.
The agar agar is made from seaweed, which has a mild flavor and is often used in Asian dishes. It’s not quite as versatile as gelatin but it does provide some similar properties. The main benefit of agar agar vs gelatin is its ability to set at room temperature without refrigeration. This makes it perfect for cooking ahead of time.
Ingredients For jello versus unflavored gelatin
How Much Gelatin Is in a Knox Jello Packet?
A single packet of Knox gelatin contains about 8 grams of gelatin, which is less than a couple of teaspoons.
How To Make jello versus unflavored gelatin
how much gelatin is in a packet?
Successfully removing gelatin from a mold takes practice and patience. To remove gelatin, put mold into a bowl or sink full of hot water for a few seconds. The hot water will soften the mold, making it easier to remove. After removing from hot water, gently shake the mold side to side. Put plate on top of mold and flip over. If gelatin does not come out, try repeating the process. Just be careful not to melt the mold in the process.
One of the fun (and odd) characteristics of gelatin is its ability to freeze fruit in space. In order to accomplish this, put the gelatin (without fruit) in refrigerator (or freezer) until thickened to a soft gel consistency, then gently stir in fruit. The gelatin should be easy to stir but thick enough to suspend the fruit. However, if it’s too thick, stirring in fruit may cause bubbles. Getting the “perfect” thickened consistency takes practice.
Layering is the trickiest gelatin skill, but results in beautiful molds. Layering takes time – the previous layer must be almost set before the next layer is spooned in. Almost set means the gelatin is solid but sticks to your finger when lightly touched. If the gelatin is completely set, it may not stick to the next layer. However, if the previous layer is not set enough, the layers will merge together.
I find shopping for vintage molds just as fun as making gelatin. The Goodwill in my neighborhood has a new supply of molds every week – and they’re cheap! Antique malls also have a wide selection, but tend to be more expensive. Ebay and Etsy are other excellent sources for vintage molds. I’ve learned from experience that glass and ceramic molds are heavy and cumbersome, so stick with metal or plastic. Also, when making individual molds, it’s best not to use a muffin tin. Since removing gelatin from a mold can be tricky, it’s much easier to use individual molds instead.
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