วุ้นกะทิ

วุ้นกะทิ (Thai Coconut Jelly) — Easy Recipe for Beginners

Introduction

วุ้นกะทิ is a light, refreshing Thai coconut jelly made with agar-agar and creamy coconut milk. This simple dessert is perfect for beginners and home cooks who want an authentic Thai treat without complicated steps. In about 30 minutes plus chill time you’ll have a silky, slightly sweet jelly that’s great for hot days, parties, or as a gentle end to a spicy meal.

Ingredients

• 10 g (about 1 tablespoon) agar-agar powder (ผงวุ้น)
• 800 ml water
• 150 g granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 400 ml full-fat coconut milk (canned, well shaken)
• Pinch of salt (about 1/8 teaspoon)
• 2 pandan leaves, tied into a knot (optional, for fragrance)
• Optional: a few drops of pandan extract or food coloring for a green layer

Instructions

1. Prepare your mold or tray: Lightly oil a square pan or small individual silicone molds. Have a fine-mesh sieve and a heatproof measuring jug ready.
2. Combine agar and water: In a medium saucepan, sprinkle the agar-agar powder over 800 ml cold water. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes to hydrate.
3. Bring to a boil: Add the pandan leaves (if using) and heat the mixture over medium-high heat. Stir constantly and bring to a rolling boil. Agar must boil for 2–3 minutes to dissolve completely—keep stirring to avoid lumps.
4. Add sugar: Once the agar has dissolved, add the granulated sugar and continue stirring until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
5. Temper the coconut milk: Reduce the heat to low. Remove the pandan leaves. Slowly pour the coconut milk into the hot agar solution while stirring gently to combine. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
6. Warm through (don’t overboil): Heat the combined mixture for 1–2 minutes on low—do not let the coconut milk boil vigorously, as that can change the texture.
7. Strain for smoothness: Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into your prepared mold or jug to remove any undissolved bits for a silky finish.
8. Pour and cool: Pour into molds or a shallow tray. Let cool at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator to set for at least 1–2 hours.
9. Serve: Once set, cut into cubes or unmold pieces. Serve chilled. Optionally garnish with toasted sesame seeds, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of condensed milk.

Cooking Tips

• Use agar-agar powder for easiest measuring. If using agar strips, follow package conversion (usually 1 strip ≈ 1–2 g of powder).
• Agar must reach a full boil to activate. If your jelly doesn’t set, reheat and boil the mixture again with a little extra agar dissolved in warm water.
• To make two-toned วุ้นกะทิ, pour half the plain coconut layer, let it start to set (about 10–15 minutes), then color and pour the second layer gently on top.
• Avoid boiling coconut milk vigorously; keep it at a gentle heat to maintain a creamy texture. Stir constantly when combining with hot agar liquid.
• Straining the mixture before setting gives a smooth, professional look without tiny bubbles or bits.
• Store วุ้นกะทิ in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. It firms up when cold—allow a few minutes at room temperature before serving for a softer texture.

Nutritional Information

The following estimates are for one serving when the recipe is divided into 8 portions and made with full-fat canned coconut milk. Values are approximate and will vary by brand and exact measurements.

• Calories: ~160 kcal per serving
• Total fat: ~10 g (mostly from coconut milk)
• Carbohydrates: ~16–20 g (mostly sugars)
• Protein: ~1 g
• Sodium: ~30 mg (depends on salt added)

To reduce calories and fat, use light coconut milk or a mix of coconut milk and regular milk. For precise nutritional tracking, enter your exact ingredients into a nutrition calculator.

Conclusion

วุ้นกะทิ is an easy, elegant Thai dessert that’s perfect for beginners and home cooks. With only a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can make a silky coconut jelly at home—customize it with pandan, layers, or garnishes to create your favorite version. Try this recipe, share your results, and enjoy a cool bite of Thai flavor!