Are you looking for an alternative to gelatine? Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or simply looking for a healthier and more ethical option, there are plenty of substitutes available. In this post, we’ll explore the top 10 best gelatine substitutes that can be used in a variety of recipes.
Some substitutes we’ll discuss include agar-agar, carrageenan, pectin, and xanthan gum. These alternatives can be used in everything from desserts to savory dishes and will give you the same texture and binding properties as gelatine.
What is Gelatine?
Gelatine is a protein obtained from collagen found in animal bones, skin, and connective tissue. It’s commonly used as a thickener in food products such as jellies, marshmallows, and gummy candies. Gelatine is also used in some medications and cosmetics.
Criteria for Choosing Substitutes
When choosing a substitute for gelatine, there are a few factors to consider:
- Texture: Does the substitute have similar binding properties to gelatine?
- Taste: Will it affect the taste of your dish?
- Nutritional value: Is it high in protein or other nutrients?
- Environmental impact: Is it sustainable?
The Best Substitutes for Gelatine
1. Agar-Agar
Agar-agar is a plant-based substitute made from seaweed. It has a neutral taste and odor and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Agar-agar has stronger gelling properties than gelatine and sets at room temperature.
In terms of nutrition, agar-agar is low in calories, but high in fiber. It’s also an excellent source of calcium.
To use agar-agar as a substitute, dissolve the flakes or powder in hot liquid, then chill until set. Use 1 teaspoon of agar-agar powder or 1 tablespoon of agar-agar flakes for every cup of liquid.
2. Carrageenan
Carrageenan is another seaweed-based substitute that’s commonly used in dairy products and desserts. It has a neutral taste and can be used in both cold and hot recipes.
Nutritionally, carrageenan is low in calories and fat but high in fiber. It also contains some vitamins and minerals such as calcium and potassium.
To use carrageenan, dissolve it in hot liquid and chill until set. Use 1 teaspoon of carrageenan for every cup of liquid.
3. Pectin
Pectin is a plant-based substitute made from fruit peels, such as apples or citrus fruits. It’s commonly used in jams, jellies, and other fruit-based products.
Pectin is high in fiber and contains some vitamins and minerals, like calcium and potassium.
To use pectin as a substitute for gelatine, mix it with sugar or other sweeteners before adding it to your recipe. Use the amount specified on the package instructions.
4. Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum is a plant-based substitute made by fermenting sugars with bacteria. It’s commonly used as a thickener in sauces, dressings, and baked goods.
Xanthan gum is low in calories, but it doesn’t have a lot of nutritional value.
To use xanthan gum as a substitute for gelatine, sprinkle it over the surface of cold liquids while whisking constantly to prevent clumping. Use 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum for every cup of liquid.
5. Guar Gum
Guar gum is another plant-based substitute made from the guar bean. It’s commonly used as a thickener in sauces, dressings, and baked goods.
From a nutritional standpoint, guar gum is low in calories and does not offer any notable nutritional benefits.
If you use it as a substitute, simply sprinkle it over the surface of cold liquids, stirring constantly to keep it from clumping. Use 1/2 teaspoon guar gum for each cup of liquid.
6. Arrowroot Powder
Arrowroot powder is a plant-based substitute made from the root of the arrowroot plant. It’s commonly used as a thickener in soups, sauces, and desserts.
Arrowroot powder is low in calories, but doesn’t provide any significant nutritional value.
In order to utilize arrowroot powder, mix it with cold liquid before adding it to your recipe. Use 1 tablespoon of arrowroot powder for each cup of liquid.
7. Cornstarch
Cornstarch is a plant-based substitute made from corn kernels. It’s commonly used as a thickener in sauces, soups, and desserts.
Nutritionally, cornstarch is low in calories but doesn’t provide any significant nutritional value.
Make sure to mix cornstarch with cold liquid before adding it to your recipe. Use 1 tablespoon of cornstarch for each cup of liquid.
8. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a plant-based substitute that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. They’re high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids and have a nutty flavor.
Soak chia seeds in water until they have a gel-like consistency. Use 1 tablespoon of chia seeds for every cup of liquid.
9. Flaxseed Meal
Flaxseed meal is another plant-based substitute that’s high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. It has a nutty flavor and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
To use flaxseed meal mix it with hot water until it forms a gel-like consistency. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal for every cup of liquid.
10. Fruit Juice
Fruit juice can be used as a natural substitute for gelatine in recipes such as jellies and desserts.
Simply simmer the fruit juice until it thickens, then chill until set.
Tips on How to Substitute
- When using substitutes for gelatine, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully.
- Some substitutes may require more or less than the recommended amount depending on the recipe.
- Substitutes may have different textures and tastes than gelatine, so experimentation may be necessary.
- Some substitutes may not work well in certain recipes, so it’s always best to do your research beforehand.
Tasty Coconut Panna Cotta Recipe with Substitute
Course: DessertCuisine: Italian, Other world cuisineDifficulty: Easy4
servings5
minutes5
minutes2
hours2
hours10
minutesDelicious vegan dessert, Coconut Panna Cotta using Agar-Agar powder as a gelatine substitute.
Ingredients
-
1 can coconut milk
-
2 teaspoons agar-agar powder
-
1/4 cup sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, agar-agar powder, sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour into ramekins or molds and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Serve topped with fresh fruit or whipped cream.
Other Notable FAQs on the Topic
Can I substitute gelatine with any of these substitutes in any recipe?
No, some substitutes may not work well in certain recipes due to their texture or taste. It’s always best to do your research beforehand.
Are these substitutes healthier than gelatine?
Some substitutes, such as agar-agar and chia seeds, are higher in fiber and other nutrients than gelatine. However, it depends on the specific substitute.
Are these substitutes more environmentally friendly than gelatine?
Yes, most of these substitutes are plant-based and have a lower environmental impact than animal-based products such as gelatine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are plenty of substitutes for gelatine that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking for a healthier option, these alternatives will give you the same texture and binding properties as gelatine. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and experiment with different substitutes to find the perfect one for your recipe.
