| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
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| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 151 | 0g | 0g | 37g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 33g | 1g | 1g | 0.04g |
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I’ve always enjoyed diving into the world of desserts that balance sweetness with refreshing notes, and this Longan Jelly Dessert delivers just that. The unique blend of longan fruit with a hint of lemon and vanilla creates an experience that’s both comforting and invigorating. Growing up, I was surrounded by an abundance of natural ingredients, and the flavors in this recipe remind me of those fresh and hearty elements from my Montana roots but with an exotic twist.
Why Longan?
Longan, often referred to as the ‘dragon’s eye’, is not just any ordinary fruit. It’s known for its delightful sweetness and somewhat floral taste. Apart from its delicious flavor, longan is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and has been used in traditional medicine to boost energy and support the immune system. These health benefits elevate the Longan Jelly Dessert from a mere treat to a nourishing delight.
The Role of Agar-agar
Agar-agar, the vegetarian gelatin substitute derived from seaweed, is another hero in this recipe. Not only does it give the jelly its perfect set, but it also aids in digestion and is high in fiber, making it a healthier alternative to traditional gelatin. For those interested in exploring more about agar-agar, you might find this Healthline article on agar-agar quite informative.
Another reason I adore this recipe is its flexibility. It works beautifully as a stand-alone dessert, but it can also complement other dishes. Imagine pairing it with a light Asian meal or even alongside a tropical fruit salad for a fun, multi-textural experience. The subtlety of the longan pairs wonderfully with other fruits and light dishes, adding an element of sophistication without overwhelming the palate.
Moreover, the addition of fresh mint leaves as a garnish is not just for aesthetics. Mint provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet, floral notes of the longan, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dessert. If you enjoy Asian-inspired desserts, you might find this collection of Asian dessert recipes from BBC Good Food equally delightful.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, the Longan Jelly Dessert is a perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and health benefits. It captures the essence of fresh ingredients and the creativity of blending traditional and modern culinary techniques. I hope you find as much joy in making and savoring it as I do.
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What You’ll Need
- 2 cups longan fruit (peeled and pitted)
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
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Method
Step One
Rinse the longan fruit under cold water and ensure they are thoroughly cleaned. Ensure the longan is peeled, pitted, and set aside. If using canned longan, drain and rinse them.
Step Two
In a large saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step Three
Once the sugar has dissolved, add the agar-agar powder to the saucepan. Continue to stir the mixture constantly to prevent the agar-agar from clumping. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step Four
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the agar-agar is fully dissolved and the mixture becomes clear.
Step Five
Add the cleaned longan fruit to the saucepan and gently stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step Six
Remove the saucepan from heat and add the lemon juice and vanilla extract, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
Step Seven
Carefully pour the mixture into a mold or individual serving dishes. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the jelly is fully set.
Step Eight
Once the jelly is fully set and chilled, remove it from the mold or serving dishes. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your refreshing Longan Jelly Dessert!
