Kanten Recipe

Japanese · Dessert · 25 min total

Kanten is a traditional Japanese gelatin dessert made from agar-agar, a plant-based gelatin derived from seaweed. This refreshing treat is often enjoyed with fruits and sweet syrup.

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 4 g agar-agar powder (about 2 teaspoons)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup mixed fresh fruits (e.g., strawberries, kiwi, mandarin oranges), diced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and agar-agar powder. Whisk to dissolve.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add sugar and stir until completely dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
4. Place the diced fruits into a square or rectangular mold (about 8x8 inches). Pour the agar mixture over the fruits.
5. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
6. Once set, cut into cubes or slices and serve chilled. Optionally, drizzle with sweet syrup or top with whipped cream.

Tips

• For a clearer kanten, strain the agar mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring over fruits.
• Store leftover kanten in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• You can use any seasonal fruits; avoid fruits high in acidity like pineapple or kiwi as they may prevent setting.

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