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Kohakutou (edible Japanese crystals)

Kohakutou (Edible Crystal Candy)

With its colorful and transparent appearance resembling crystals or gems, Kohakutou is a traditional Japanese candy that has recently regained popularity in Japan, thanks to its Instagram-worthy qualities. Experience the unique texture of its crispy exterior and jelly-like interior, often referred to as 'edible crystals.'
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Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Drying Period: 5 days
Total Time: 5 days 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
 
 

  • 2 tsp agar-agar powder
  • 10.6 oz granulated sugar (Other types of sugar can also be used, but granulated sugar will give you a more transparent finish due to its high purity.)
  • cup water
  • liquid food coloring, flavored syrups, or liqueurs
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Instructions
 

  • Mix water and agar-agar powder in a pot, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 3 minutes to fully dissolve the agar-agar.
  • Add sugar to the pot and continue simmering for 5-10 minutes, stirring with a spatula until the mixture thickens. The consistency should be thick enough that when you lift the spatula, the mixture forms a string.
  • Wet the inside of a glass or metal container and pour the liquid mixture into it. If there is any white foam or bubbles on the surface, remove them with a spoon. Add a few drops of food colorings (or flavored syrups or liqueurs) in several colors at intervals and gently stir each spot with a skewer or spoon. Then, let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour.
    Note: To create a marbled pattern, wait for about 10 minutes until the mixture cools slightly, then gently stir near the color border.
  • Cut the solidified mixture into your desired shapes using your hands, a knife, or molds, and arrange the pieces on parchment paper, ensuring they do not overlap. Allow them to dry in a well-ventilated room until the surface firms up and develops a frosted glass-like appearance.
  • Once the surface of the pieces has firmed, flip them over and continue the drying process until the other side also firms up. The total drying period is approximately 5 to 7 days.

Notes

  • You can store it at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Avoid refrigerating it, as condensation may cause mold growth.

Nutrition

Calories: 294kcal
Author: Ryo Hikita (Umami Pot)
Cuisine: Japanese
Category: Plant-Based, Sweets, Traditional, Vegetable
Keyword: agar agar
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