When it comes to desserts, striking the perfect balance between indulgence and healthiness can be challenging. But what if I told you that you can create a dessert that is not only healthy but also deliciously refreshing with just milk and fruit? That’s right! This recipe for Mandarin Orange Jelly, Strawberry Jelly, and Kiwi Banana Jelly is a game-changer. With simple ingredients like milk, fresh fruits, and agar powder, you’ll whip up a guilt-free treat that looks stunning and tastes divine. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
- Simple Ingredients: All you need is milk, a little sugar, agar powder, and fruits. No fancy additives or preservatives.
- Customizable: Swap out the fruits or use plant-based milk for a vegan option.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and a touch of protein, this dessert is a healthier alternative to sugar-laden treats.
- Visually Stunning: Layered with vibrant colors and textures, this dessert is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
Ingredients
Mandarin Orange Jelly:
- 300ml milk
- 60g sugar
- 6g agar powder
- 3 mandarin oranges (peeled and segmented)
Strawberry Jelly:
- 300ml strawberry milk
- 30g sugar
- 6g agar powder
- 3 strawberries (sliced)
Kiwi Banana Jelly:
- 300ml banana milk
- 30g sugar
- 6g agar powder
- 2 kiwis (peeled and sliced)
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Mandarin Orange Jelly
- Heat the Milk Mixture:
In a saucepan, combine 300ml of milk, 60g of sugar, and 6g of agar powder. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and agar powder. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. - Cool Slightly:
Remove from heat and let it cool for 2–3 minutes. This step ensures the mixture doesn’t curdle when adding fruit. - Add Mandarin Oranges:
Pour a layer of the milk mixture into your mold, then gently place mandarin orange segments on top. - Set the Layer:
Allow the jelly to set at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, or until firm enough to hold the next layer.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Jelly
- Heat the Strawberry Milk Mixture:
In another saucepan, combine 300ml of strawberry milk, 30g of sugar, and 6g of agar powder. Stir and heat until it boils. - Cool Slightly:
Let it cool for 2–3 minutes. - Add Sliced Strawberries:
Pour the strawberry milk mixture over the set mandarin orange jelly layer. Add the sliced strawberries. - Set the Layer:
Let this layer firm up for another 10–15 minutes.
3. Prepare the Kiwi Banana Jelly
- Heat the Banana Milk Mixture:
In a clean saucepan, mix 300ml of banana milk, 30g of sugar, and 6g of agar powder. Heat until it comes to a gentle boil. - Cool Slightly:
Allow to cool slightly before pouring. - Add Kiwi Slices:
Pour the banana milk mixture over the strawberry jelly layer and arrange the kiwi slices decoratively. - Set Completely:
Let the entire dessert set in the refrigerator for at least 2–3 hours, or until fully firm.
Serving Suggestions
- Unmold with Care:
To unmold the jelly, run a knife along the edges of the mold and gently invert it onto a plate. If using silicone molds, the dessert should pop out easily. - Decorate:
Garnish with additional fruit slices, mint leaves, or a drizzle of honey for extra flair. - Slice and Serve:
Cut the jelly into neat slices to showcase the beautiful layers, and serve chilled.
Tips for Success
- Agar Powder Magic: Unlike gelatin, agar sets at room temperature and doesn’t melt easily, making it perfect for layered desserts.
- Don’t Skip Cooling: Allow each layer to cool slightly before pouring to prevent colors from mixing.
- Fruit Placement: Arrange fruits strategically for the most eye-catching presentation.
Health Benefits
This dessert is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a boost for your health:
- Mandarin Oranges: Rich in Vitamin C, they support a strong immune system.
- Strawberries: Packed with antioxidants and fiber for a healthy gut.
- Kiwis: Loaded with Vitamin K and potassium, great for bone health.
- Milk: Provides calcium and protein, essential for strong bones and muscles.
Customizations
- Vegan Alternative: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk and strawberry/banana plant-based options.
- Other Fruits: Pineapple, mango, or blueberries can be swapped in for a fresh twist.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar to taste or substitute with honey or a natural sweetener like stevia.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The agar-based jelly maintains its texture well, so you can prepare it in advance for parties or meal prep.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This dessert is proof that healthy eating doesn’t mean compromising on taste. It’s versatile, eye-catching, and delicious—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. Plus, it’s kid-friendly, making it a great way to sneak in some fruits and nutrients into their diet.
Conclusion
Say goodbye to store-bought desserts loaded with artificial flavors and preservatives. With this simple recipe, you’ll have a homemade masterpiece that’s bursting with natural flavors and vibrant colors. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a midweek treat, this dessert is bound to be a showstopper. So grab your ingredients and get started—your taste buds will thank you!
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