Agar vs. Gelatin - what is agar and is it healthy?

Agar and gelatin are two ingredients used in cooking to condense meals. Most commonly, we use them to prepare jelly, panna cotta, and no-bake cheesecake. While we are all familiar with gelatin, agar has not yet become very popular. Find out if agar is healthy and when it is worth reaching for it.

WHAT IS AGAR?

Agar is a plant-based ingredient with gelling properties. It is produced from marine algae. It is now available to purchase in an increasing number of stores, most often in the healthy food section. Agar comes in the form of powder, flakes, and bars, among others. Since it is an entirely plant-based product, it is most often used by people following vegan and vegetarian diets.

AGAR VS. GELATIN - DIFFERENCES

Although agar and gelatin have similar effects, they are not identical substances. Gelatin, unlike agar, is a zoonotic product obtained from the connective tissue of animals. You can easily buy it in almost any store, mostly in powder or flake form.

It is worth remembering that agar is resistant to very high temperatures, which gives it an advantage over gelatin. When a solution with gelatin is brought to a boil, it loses its gelling properties and therefore requires more care than the use of agar.

Another difference between agar and gelatin is the structure obtained by using these products. When using gelatin, the resulting food is more jelly-like. Agar, on the other hand, will cause the created dessert to have a solid form, but when touched, it does not feel as springy as gelatin.

Agar hardens as early as around 40 degrees C, so it does not require refrigeration. Also, you should not have to worry that cakes made with it will melt on the table on a hot day, as can happen after using gelatin.

HOW MUCH AGAR TO USE INSTEAD OF GELATIN?

If you wish to use agar, you first need to find out how much agar per litre of water to use to get the desired effect. Typically, we should use 2-3 teaspoons of agar per litre of water. You can modify these quantities according to your preference. As for gelatin, a larger amount is usually necessary (from 4 to 8 teaspoons per litre).

And how to use agar for cheesecake? The appropriate amount of agar (usually about 15-20 g) is best first soaked in a few tablespoons of warm water and then added to the cheesecake mixture.

AGAR VS. GELATIN - WHICH IS HEALTHIER?

These ingredients are of different origin and exhibit different health-promoting properties.

Agar is a source of a large amount of dietary fibre, which exhibits multidirectional beneficial effects on health. It improves the function of the digestive system and prevents constipation. Because of its limited digestion, it gives a longer feeling of satiety and prevents rapid fluctuations in blood glucose levels. Therefore, it is a beneficial product in a weight loss diet. In addition, agar is a source of numerous minerals, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and vitamins B, E, and K.

Gelatin contains a large amount of collagen, a protein that is a component of our skin and joints. Research indicates that the consumption of gelatin in combination with vitamin C improves the condition of the musculoskeletal system, which is particularly beneficial for patients with joint diseases and professional athletes at high risk of injury. Using gelatin offers beneficial effects on the healing process of wounds, influences the youthful state of the skin and, like agar, reduces the feeling of hunger, thus supporting weight reduction.

AGAR AND GELATIN - A HEALTHY DESSERT IDEA

Agar and gelatin are products you can use to prepare healthy desserts suitable even when losing weight. No-bake cheesecake with sweetener will be an ideal source of protein, a vital ingredient on a reduction diet. Meanwhile, a jelly prepared from fruit juice or blended fruit will be a source of vitamins and bioactive compounds that improve our health and appearance. By replacing butter in traditional custard recipes with agar or gelatin, you can prepare a healthier version of the cake.

If you are looking for more valuable ingredients to include in your menu, try the whole-food diet offered by Sofra Health Institute.