Aiyu jelly Recipe

Taiwanese · Dessert · 15 min total

Aiyu jelly is a refreshing Taiwanese dessert made from the seeds of the aiyu fig. This simple recipe yields a delicate, citrusy jelly that's perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

Ingredients

• 1 ounce (28g) aiyu seeds (also known as aiyu jelly seeds or aiyu fig seeds)
• 4 cups filtered water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes for serving
• Lemon slices or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the aiyu seeds in a clean muslin bag or cheesecloth and tie securely.
2. In a large bowl, combine the filtered water, lemon juice, and sugar (if using). Stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Submerge the bag of aiyu seeds in the water mixture. Gently squeeze and massage the bag with your hands for about 8-10 minutes. The water will become slightly cloudy and start to gel.
4. Remove the bag and discard the seeds. Do not squeeze too hard to avoid bitterness.
5. Pour the liquid into a shallow dish or individual serving bowls. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until set (it will gel without refrigeration).
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to chill thoroughly.
7. To serve, spoon the jelly into glasses or bowls, add ice cubes, and garnish with lemon slices or mint if desired.

Tips

• Use filtered or bottled water, as chlorine in tap water may prevent gelling.
• Do not over-squeeze the seeds; gentle massaging is key to avoid a bitter taste.
• Aiyu jelly is traditionally served with a squeeze of lemon and a touch of honey or simple syrup.
• The jelly will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best fresh.

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