Cool Beans
Japan's refreshing coffee jelly is the perfect summer treat.
Coffee jelly has been cooling off Japanese summers since the turn of the 20th century. Inspired by the molded jellies popular in Britain, Japanese confectioners created their own version using kanten, a seaweed-based gelling agent, instead of traditional gelatin. The result was a light, refreshing dessert with a distinctly Japanese identity — and one that is naturally vegan-friendly.
In Japan, coffee jelly is a popular summer treat that's sold just about everywhere — from convenience stores and cafés to bakeries and restaurants. While living in Japan, making it at home never crossed my mind. Now that I am back in the United States, I decided it was the perfect excuse to whip up a batch myself!
Coffee Jelly
- 2 ½ c. strong brewed coffee
- 2 ½ c. water
- 2 tsp. kanten powder
- 1/3 c. sugar
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
In a small saucepan, mix 2½ cups strong-brewed coffee, 2½ cups water and 2 teaspoons of kanten powder. Whisk well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. You’ll want to make sure the kanten powder is completely dissolved or the mixture will not solidify. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, continue whisking the mixture for 2 minutes. Turn off the heat and add 1/3 cup sugar. Pour the hot mixture into an 8-inch-by-8-inch baking pan. Let it cool at room temperature, about one hour, until it begins to set, and then refrigerate for at least 5 hours. It is best enjoyed within two days of refrigeration.
TO SERVE
Cut the jelly into cubes and transfer them to serving bowls. Meantime, whisk together one cup of sweetened condensed milk and one cup of evaporated milk or heavy cream, until smooth. You can adjust this combination, based on your sweetness preference. Pour this over your bowl of jelly cubes and top with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream or chocolate sauce.
Kanten vs. Gelatin
What is the difference?
Kanten (agar-agar) is a flavorless, plant-based gelling agent made from red seaweed. Unlike gelatin, it creates a firmer texture, holds its shape well in warmer temperatures, and is completely vegan. While it begins setting at room temperature, chilling it in the refrigerator helps it fully set. You can find kanten at places like Isabela Asian Market in Billings or on Amazon.
